Tue, 1 Nov 2022

FESBC & HCTF Accomplishments Update

Replanting Whitebark Pine saplings along a subalpine ridge in the Skeena Region (photo by Sybille Haeussler)

Today sees the release of an Accomplishment Update reviewing the successes of a 5-year partnership between the Forest Enhancement Society of British Columbia (FESBC) and the Habitat Conservation Trust Foundation (HCTF). Since 2017, these two organizations have been working together to improve wildlife and fish habitat through the funding of vital conservation work.

FESBC & HCTF Accomplishments Update

The partnership funds projects ranging from wildlife research, habitat restoration and community engagement, with a focus on improving British Columbia’s forest ecosystems across every corner of British Columbia. HCTF brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise in identifying and cultivating impactful conservation work, combined with FESBC’s clear vision for improving forest wildlife habitat and ability to facilitate engagement with BC’s forestry community and the accomplishments of this partnership have been a great success for both organizations. Collaborative efforts between organizations, governments, and all British Columbians with a passion for nature are our best chance to improve, restore and maintain the natural resources that make this province great.

“FESBC and HCTF’s partnership delivers on-the-ground projects improving wildlife stewardship and habitat conservation throughout the province.” Says the Honourable Katrine Conroy, British Columbia’s Minister of Forests. “Through increased collaboration, their work is aligned fully with our Together for Wildlife strategy turning data and knowledge into action and results.”

From an initial pledge of $5 Million in 2017, the partnership has leveraged more than $8 Million dollars toward 105 individual conservation projects across the province. With many more success stories detailed in FESBC’s Fall 2022 Accomplishments Update and more funding earmarked for 2023 and beyond the partnership between FESBC and HCTF will continue to be a force for good in the sphere of wildlife and conservation funding.

About FESBC: the purposes of FESBC are to advance environmental and resource stewardship of B.C.’s forests by: preventing and mitigating the impact of wildfires; improving damaged or low-value forests; improving habitat for wildlife; supporting the use of fibre from damaged and low-value forests; and treating forests to improve the management of greenhouse gases. As of March 2022, FESBC has supported 263 projects valued at $238 million, in partnership with the governments of B.C. and Canada. FESBC would like to gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Forests.