Wetlands protection

How can we protect our remaining wetlands? Through conservation programs. Wetland conservation encompasses the protection, enhancement, and use of wetland resources according to principles that will assure their highest long-term social, economic, and ecological benefits. It is recognized that some wetlands should be protected and managed in their natural state; some actively managed to allow sustained, appropriate use of wetland renewable resources; and some developed for their non-renewable resource values.

A significant program that aims at protecting our remaining wetlands is the North American Waterfowl Management Plan (NAWMP). In 1986, the governments of Canada and the United States signed the plan in reaction to the sharp decline in waterfowl populations associated with the destruction of their habitat. They were joined by Mexico in 1993.

The plan itself outlines the scope of the work to be done on a continental basis and provides broad guidelines for habitat protection and management actions. Many partners – from federal and provincial or state governments to nongovernmental organizations and landowners – representing various interests, work in partnership to achieve the NAWMP's goal to restore, protect, and enhance wetland habitat for the benefit of waterfowl, biodiversity, and humans.

To receive additional information on the NAWMP, contact:

North American Waterfowl Management Plan 
c/o Canadian Wildlife Service
Environment Canada
Ottawa, Ontario  K1A 0H3
E-mail: nawmp@ec.gc.ca

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