Final Push For the Peel
The Yukon's Peel River Watershed is one of the largest and most beautiful intact wilderness areas left in North America. Industrial development threatens to fragment this stunning landscape and harm its delicate ecological balance. Sprawling over 68,000 square kilometres, the Peel is the northern anchor of the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative.
Not only is the watershed critical to the survival of wide-ranging wildlife, it's an ancient cultural landscape for First Nations. The region also supports a burgeoning tourism industry.
By conserving it, we will protect one of the finest remaining mountain boreal ecosystems in the world.
Time is Short
The Peel Planning Commission has released its Final Recommended Peel Watershed Regional Land Use Plan. This plan recommends permanent protection for 55% of the Peel: the famous Wind, Snake and Bonnet Plume watersheds. It also recommends interim protection for 25% of the Peel, designated as a wilderness area. Although affected First Nations and ENGO's want 100% protection, they are willing to accept this plan.
In late 2011 or early 2012 the Yukon government will decide the future of the 97% of the Peel watershed that is public land. The Yukon government needs to hear public support from across Canada and that's where The Big Wild comes in.
The Peel Watershed is certain to be a major issue in this fall's Yukon election which is why we're kicking-off our campaign, now. After the election, there will be a final round of public consultations. The Big Wild, in partnership with CPAWS, will work on behalf of the Peel watershed, connecting with Canadians and enlisting their support from coast to coast to coast.
Your Voice Matters
The pristine wild rivers, valleys and mountains of the Peel will become even more important as a sanctuary for wild species as the impacts of climate change are felt.
Your voice, combined with countless others, will help persuade the Yukon government to protect these wild lands, waters and wildlife. If 80% of the Peel is protected it will be the largest protected area in North America. Sign the declaration today.
