Edziza Conservancy

Edziza Provincial Park

About this conservation project

Working in partnership with Tahltan Central Government, the Province of British Columbia, Skeena Resources Limited and the Nature Conservancy of Canada, BC Parks Foundation helped create the Edziza Conservancy adjacent to Mount Edziza Park.

The 3,500-hectare conservancy protects an important part of Tahltan territory, adding permanent protection to a landscape known for its cultural significance, remarkable volcanic features and outstanding wildlife habitat.

The conservancy marks the first step in the Tahltan Stewardship Initiative, a long-term vision led by Tahltan Central Government to strengthen stewardship across its territory.

Why is Edziza Conservancy important?

The conservancy protects a rich diversity of habitats, including forests, alpine meadows, wetlands, and lakes. These landscapes support grizzly bears, caribou, moose, mountain goats, Stone's sheep, wolverines and many other species, including 11 listed under the federal Species at Risk Act.

The area also forms part of the headwaters of the Iskut River, the largest tributary of the Stikine River system, which is one of British Columbia's largest and most intact wild salmon watersheds.

Historically known as the Ice Mountain Lands, the area has long held deep cultural importance for the Tahltan Nation. The obsidian found here provided material for tools, weapons and trade, supporting Tahltan people for thousands of years.

Voices from the partnership

“Mount Edziza and the surrounding area has always been sacred to the Tahltan Nation. The obsidian from this portion of our territory provided us with weaponry, tools, and trading goods that ensured our Tahltan people could thrive for thousands of years,” said Chad Norman Day, President of Tahltan Central Government. “Working alongside Skeena Resources, the Province, BC Parks Foundation, and the Nature Conservancy of Canada to provide further protection to this area is an initiative we can all take pride in. I am so relieved and thrilled that Mount Edziza is better protected for our future generations.”

“This is a triple win,” said Andy Day, CEO of the BC Parks Foundation. “Together, we’re protecting a huge area for wildlife and nature, we’re advancing reconciliation, and we’re supporting sustainable recreation and use. We offer our sincere gratitude to the Tahltan, B.C., NCC, and Skeena for getting in the same canoe and paddling in the same direction - it’s a great direction for B.C.”