Indigenous peoples have been stewards of Canadian lands and waters since time immemorial and hold unique knowledge and perspectives essential to addressing today’s climate and environmental challenges. With this in mind, the Ministry of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature has announced $19.6 million for 82 Indigenous-led stewardship initiatives to support locally led climate solutions, species-at-risk conservation, and First Nations Guardians programs.

Through significant investments in Indigenous-Led Natural Climate Solutions, First Nations Guardian initiatives, and Indigenous Partnerships for Species at Risk, the federal government is supporting Indigenous leadership in efforts to fight climate change, protect species at risk, restore ecosystems, and cut greenhouse gas emissions. These initiatives safeguard nature, create meaningful jobs in remote communities, strengthen cultural connections, and promote sustainable economic growth.

“Indigenous Knowledge, shaped by millennia of stewardship, is integral to solving some of our biggest challenges, like climate change, biodiversity loss, and climate-related natural disasters,” said Julie Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature. “I am inspired by the leadership of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities and organizations across the country. Together, we are fighting climate change; conserving vast, globally significant ecosystems that safeguard species; protecting nature; and helping create a more sustainable future.”

In British Columbia specifically, this announcement will fund 22 Indigenous-led stewardship projects, including these three initiatives that highlight the important work being done:

Tsartlip First Nation Guardians will protect and restore terrestrial and marine territories under W̱SÁNEĆ laws, asserting jurisdiction over land and water. Their work includes environmental monitoring, resource protection, and cultural revitalization using SENĆOŦEN language and traditional practices.Nazko First Nation will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by restoring wetlands within its traditional territory, combining Traditional Ecological Knowledge with modern scientific methods. The project focuses on water flow management, native plant restoration, invasive species control, and peat preservation to improve habitat diversity and resilience.Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre will build on ongoing work to study wildfire impacts on snake habitat, movements, and food availability while engaging community and youth in conservation. Activities include radio telemetry tracking, species health checks, prey counts, youth programs, workshops, and educational outreach.

These initiatives are important pathways for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis to exercise their rights and responsibilities in stewarding their traditional lands and territories. They are also key components of Canada’s commitment to implementing the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

This $19.6 million investment includes $4.5 million through the Indigenous Guardians program, $13.1 million through the Indigenous-Led Natural Climate Solutions Fund, and $2 million through Indigenous Partnerships for Species at Risk.

“This investment of $4.5 million into First Nations Guardians programs is a recognition of the deep responsibilities our people carry,” said Gillian Staveley, Council Chair, First Nations National Guardians Network. “Guardians walk in the footsteps of our Elders, drawing on Knowledge passed down through generations to protect the land, water, and ice for those yet to come. With this support, communities can continue strengthening their stewardship, revitalizing language and culture, and ensuring that the places we call home remain healthy. This is work of the spirit as much as the land and water, and we are grateful to see it uplifted.”

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