November 17, 2014 (OTTAWA) More than 350 of the planet’s most important sites for nature are threatened with being lost forever according to a new report by BirdLife International. Four of Canada’s Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) are in danger.

“Boundary Bay IBA is threatened by the growth of Vancouver suburbs, development of the Roberts Bank port, and increasing ship traffic such as oil tankers associated with the proposed Trans Mountain pipeline“ said Fast. ”A tanker oil spill near Boundary Bay would be catastrophic for birds and marine mammals. That’s why Nature Canada is intervening in the hearings for the TransMountain Project together with BC Nature”

“Prince Edward County IBA is threatened by at least two wind energy projects” she said. “This IBA is a remarkable migratory stopover for thousands of birds of prey, and home to many species at risk such as the Whippoorwill and large numbers of waterfowl. Nature Canada continues to be a voice for birds and other wildlife in regulatory processes reviewing these projects. While Nature Canada is a strong supporter of renewable energy, we also support the recommendation of Gord Miller, Ontario’s Environment Commissioner, that no wind energy projects should be constructed in Ontario’s IBAs.”

The BirdLife International report “IBAs in Danger” identifies more than 350 of the planet’s most important sites for nature that are threatened with being lost forever. Aside from Boundary Bay and Prince Edward County South Shore, the report identifies two other Canadian sites of special concern including: Lancaster Sound Polynya in Nunavut and the Mackenzie River Delta in Northwest Territories. All four are noted as remarkable sites that are internationally recognized for their importance to biodiversity, migratory birds, marine animals and many species at risk.

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Paul Jorgenson, Senior Communications Manager
613-562-3447 ext 248 | pjorgenson@naturecanada.ca

Monica Tanaka, Communications Coordinator
613-562-3447 ext 241 | mtanaka@naturecanada.ca

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Nature Canada is the oldest national nature conservation charity in Canada. Over the past 75 years, we’ve helped protect over 63 million acres of parks and wildlife areas in Canada and the countless species that depend on this habitat. Today, we represent a network of over 45,000 members & supporters and more than 350 nature organizations in every province across Canada.[/one_half_last]