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Groups work to protect wetlands

Wetlands in the boreal forest are highly connected systems, often transporting water and associated nutrients long distances. Resource developments, such as roads, that block the natural flow of water in wetlands are of particular concern.

Recently, FPInnovations and Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together.
With FPInnovations’ engineering excellence in resource roads and DUC’s knowledge of wetlands and waterfowl, this collaboration will contribute significantly to developing and promoting industrial practices that maintain the health of boreal wetlands, while supporting and promoting sustainable resource-based industries.

“FPInnovations and Ducks Unlimited Canada are committed to working together to support and promote best practices in areas such as road construction in wetlands,” said Peter Lister, Vice President, forest operations and wood products at FPInnovations. “This partnership is perfectly aligned with FPInnovations’ role as the innovation hub for the forest sector in Canada, its technical expertise in the planning, construction and maintenance of resource roads and the Forest Products Association of Canada’s Agenda 2020 goal of a further 35 per cent reduction in the industry’s environmental footprint.”

The main objective of the partnership is to develop beneficial management practices for wetland road crossings to maintain natural flow when wetlands cannot be avoided.

“Wetlands in the western boreal forest are significant features across this vast region which is undergoing considerable industrial activity,” said Greg Siekaniec, CEO of Ducks Unlimited Canada. “This partnership capitalizes on the expertise of FPInnovations and Ducks Unlimited Canada to develop much needed wetland crossing best management practices, which are highly sought after by government and industry.”

Although the boreal forest remains largely intact, its wildlife and abundant natural resources are at increased risk of damage due to landscape changes associated with resource development and climate change. We all contribute to these effects and are ultimately responsible for the care of our natural areas, so we must work together to reduce our environmental footprint. The partnership between DUC and FPInnovations aims to do just that.