What are protected areas?
Protected areas are precious places that feature natural or cultural values for Manitobans to enjoy. Through legal means, protected areas are set aside to maintain healthy natural ecosystems and are managed for the long-term conservation of nature. Protected areas are a fundamental cornerstone of Manitoba's sustainable future.
Manitoba's protected areas are land, freshwater or marine areas identified for biodiversity conservation where logging, mining, oil and gas exploration and development, hydroelectric development, exploring for and harvesting peat, and other activities that significantly and adversely affect habitat are legally prohibited. Existing rights of Indigenous people are respected in protected areas, which generally remain open to hunting, trapping, fishing, and other traditional uses.
The protected parts of the following designations are included in Manitoba's protected areas network:
- ecological reserves
- traditional use planning areas
- national parks
- provincial parks
- wildlife management areas
- provincial forests
- conservation agency-owned lands protected through Memorandums of Agreement
Why are protected areas important?
Protected areas are a natural legacy for future generations. They provide us with many ecological, social, and economic benefits and promote physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. They are places for people to enjoy the wonder of exploration, and the peace and solitude of nature.
Protected areas are important for research and education. Manitoba's natural areas provide invaluable ecological goods and services such as clean air and water, flood control, and climate regulation. Protected areas are the surest, most economical way to protect diverse wildlife populations, maintain natural cycles, and safeguard pristine areas.