The Government of Canada is fulfilling the commitments we have made to Canadians. The Prime Minister's announcement of the National Conservation Plan (NCP) provides a long-term vision for conservation efforts across Canada, and brings together all Canadians who are working to conserve and restore our lands, waters and wildlife.

The NCP will focus on conserving and restoring Canada’s ecosystems and connecting Canadians to nature. It provides funding for over five years for conserving ecologically sensitive lands and supporting voluntary conservation and restoration action; restoring wetlands, strengthening marine and coastal conservation, and improving access to wildlife areas and green spaces for Canadians.

Under the National Conservation Plan, parks, National Wildlife Areas and other green spaces will play an important role, both in terms of protecting Canada’s natural heritage and providing Canadians with opportunities to experience nature. For example, urban and suburban Canadians will be more aware of the natural areas in their communities, and the opportunities for outdoor recreational activities that exist.

It also encourages Canadians from all sectors and regions to participate in environmental conservation efforts and creatively collaborate to bring about tangible environmental, economic, and social benefits.

I’m proud of the work our government has already done to conserve and restore habitats and species for Canadians. The National Conservation Plan builds on this strong record.

Since 2006, the Government of Canada has made a six-fold expansion of the Nahanni National Park Reserve – a significant conservation achievement. Over 4,000 km² of ecologically sensitive private lands has been secured, and we have added an area nearly twice the size of Vancouver Island to the network of federal protected areas. We have designated three new marine protected areas, and work continues on Canada’s first National urban park.

We have supported partners in the delivery of hundreds of local projects to protect species at risk and their habitats. We have improved water quality in the Great Lakes, Lake Simcoe, and Lake Winnipeg. We have rehabilitated recreational fisheries habitat, and are working to clean up contaminated sites.

Our role in helping Canadians to connect with nature is also not new. For example, through the My Parks Pass program, we are assisting families with young children and new Canadians living in urban areas by providing opportunities to learn camping and nature-related skills.

Integral to our identity as Canadians is our country’s beautiful natural landscape and rich biodiversity. The Prime Minister’s National Conservation Plan will build a stronger Canada, a country that cares about conserving its natural heritage -- a country in which everyone may enjoy the beauty of nature from coast to coast to coast.

Not only that, the NCP, while allowing us to protect and enjoy our nation’s rich biodiversity, will bring economic and social benefits for all Canadians.

-30-

The audio version of Garry's June 2, 2014 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here.