Project Timeline
The Wildlife Connectivity Project is a community led initiative by Nature Squamish.
The project launched in 2023 and has been executed over four key stages.
Project Inception
Concern raised at Squamish Council about habitat fragmentation and lack of wildlife connectivity planning. Nature Squamish begins internal discussions, sketching the idea of a project that could bridge science, community, and policy.
Initial Collaboration
Informal conversations with Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative (HSBRIS) and local conservationists. Early visioning of a framework: which species to focus on, what data might be needed, and how to engage the community.
Feasibility Study & Strategy
Draft outline of project goals and feasibility circulated internally. Recognition that a structured, multi-year approach would be required.
Project Scoping
Scoping work began with Coast Environmental and TerrAdapt, resulting in a biodiversity assessment framework. Technical groundwork laid: identifying data sources, mapping approaches, and priority habitats.
Stakeholder Engagement & Planning
Early stakeholder engagement begins, testing the waters with local groups and decision-makers. Project shifts from concept to structured initiative with clear deliverables.
Connectivity Model Development
Partnership formed with Conservation Biology Institute to begin development of the first wildlife connectivity model for the region. GIS layers and species movement assumptions refined.
Community Engagement
Community engagement launched: iNaturalist promoted as a citizen science tool. First public-facing events introduce the concept of connectivity to residents.
Developing Collaboration
Nature Squamish and HSBRIS formalize their partnership.
Coalition expands to include Squamish Environment Society and other local partners. Broader recognition that connectivity is a shared regional priority.
Community Engagement
Funding secured from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Launch of the “Connectivity Matters” public engagement series: workshops, talks, and online events.
Connectivity Map Reviews
Draft connectivity maps circulated for review by partners and stakeholders. Expanded iNaturalist campaign encourages residents to log wildlife sightings, enriching the model with local observations.
Squamish Nation Collaboration
Collaboration deepens with Squamish Nation knowledge-keepers, ensuring Indigenous stewardship perspectives shape the project. Maps and models begin to reflect both scientific and cultural knowledge
Model Revisions & Stakeholder Engagement
Model refinement with updated data and community feedback. Stakeholder engagement intensifies: planners, governments, and NGOs explore how to integrate results into land-use planning. Draft policy recommendations prepared, linking science to decision-making.
Connectivity Models & Learning Hub
Revised connectivity model prepared for release. Focus shifts to integration: ensuring outputs influence municipal and regional planning. Learning hub development begins.
Collaboration
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