Conservation of Grasslands

Grasslands are home to more than 30 percent of BC’s species at risk and support more threatened or endangered species than any other habitat in the province.  Despite this significance, grasslands represent less than one percent of the provincial land base and are one of Canada's most endangered ecosystems.  Thus, grasslands are critically important to BC’s ecological diversity.

Grasslands are also significant to aboriginal culture in BC.  Many grassland plants are valuable for traditional use, and many important archaeological sites are located within grassland areas.  Grasslands exist within the traditional territory of many First Nations people in British Columbia, and many bands continue to use grasslands for ranching, hunting and other traditional purposes.

Grasslands play a critical role in BC’s ranching industry.  Grasslands serve as a forage base for grazing cattle and sheep as well as providing space and water resources.  Healthy grasslands are necessary for a successful and vibrant livestock industry in BC.

Finally, grasslands offer many unique recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike.  British Columbia’s grasslands are used extensively for motorized and non-motorized recreational activities for both commercial and non-commercial purposes.  The stewardship and conservation of grassland ecosystems will therefore depend heavily on our ability to manage human activities appropriately. 

Because grasslands have such a wide range of values, appropriate management is crucial.  In order to ensure that grasslands can continue to provide ecological, social and economic value to British Columbians, strategies to conserve the land base needed.

Please click one of the links below to learn more about grassland conservation strategies in British Columbia.