Gbenga Ayansola, natural resources manager, Lheidli T’enneh First Nation –

“Today marks an important milestone for Lheidli T’enneh. The Meteor Lake area has long been a place of ecological and cultural significance within our traditional territory, and we have worked to see it protected since identifying it as a conservation priority in 2016. This Wildlife Management Area reflects our shared commitment with the Province to honour Indigenous stewardship, protect wildlife and habitat, and ensure this special place is cared for for generations to come.”

Owen Torgerson, mayor of Valemount –

“The Village of Valemount is excited over the expansion of Cranberry Marsh Wildlife Management Area, which will benefit all. For residents, the expansion will provide more connection with nature and enjoy outdoor activities. Visitors will have more opportunity to discover the region’s stunning beauty and unique wildlife. Nature enthusiasts and photographers will appreciate the new habitat, which serves as a haven for biodiversity and protects the area’s delicate ecosystems.”

Matt Christensen, manager of provincial operations, Ducks Unlimited Canada –

“The Province’s establishment of the Meteor Lake Wildlife Management Area and expansion of the Cranberry Marsh Wildlife Management Area mark significant achievements for wetland conservation in British Columbia. These protected landscapes will provide lasting benefits for waterfowl, wildlife and the health of our ecosystems. Ducks Unlimited Canada is proud to be a management partner at the Cranberry Marsh Wildlife Management Area and applauds the Province’s continued leadership in conserving these extraordinary places.”

Jasper Lament, chief executive officer, The Nature Trust of British Columbia –

“Conservation takes patience, persistence and partnerships. The Nature Trust of BC has partnered with the Province since the 1970s, purchasing and protecting private lands to restore connectivity at Cranberry Marsh and across B.C. Our lands at Cranberry Marsh and Meteor Lake fit seamlessly with the expanded wildlife management areas, and we look forward to working with the Province, Lheidli T’enneh First Nation, Simpcw First Nation and other partners to manage these lands for fish and wildlife forever.”

Nancy Newhouse, regional vice-president, British Columbia, Nature Conservancy of Canada –

“The Meteor Lake Wetland Wildlife Management Area is proof that conservation moves further when it’s built on partnership. This project is the result of years of collaboration to protect this wetland that helps absorb and filter water in the Fraser River system. The Nature Conservancy of Canada is proud to have contributed through acquiring private land, which will now be managed by the Province of British Columbia as part of the larger project. By bringing together different strengths and expertise, we can achieve more for wildlife, habitat and future generations than we can in isolation.”