Impact Area

Conserving Canada’s Boreal Region

Canada's boreal region is essential for global and national climate stability, clean water and thriving wildlife.

Mission to Marsh North American Premiere (Feb 2, 2026)

Join us on World Wetlands Day for the screening of the award-winning documentary film of a journey to learn how America's wetlands support widlife, biodiversity and climate, as well as a Q&A session with the filmmakers.

What Is Canada’s Boreal Region?

Canada’s boreal is a global climate powerhouse. Spanning over 1.3 billion acres, from the Yukon to Newfoundland and Labrador, it’s one of the world’s largest and most impactful ecosystems.

Learn about the importance of boreal peatlands.

Why the Boreal Region Matters

25% of the world’s wetlands, including 85% of Canada’s
$700+ billion every year in recreation and ecosystem services
1.5+ million lakes, holding the largest surface freshwater area on Earth
Home to 500+ species of mammals, fish, and birds
Critical breeding habitat for billions of migratory birds
Home to more than 600 Indigenous communities that have stewarded these lands and waters since time immemorial

But it’s also under growing pressure from industry and climate change: less than 15% is currently under some form of protection, and approximately 30% is allocated for future development.

Our Boreal Conservation Focus

What began as regional wetland research in 2000 is now a national effort to sustain one of the world’s most important ecosystems.

To date, we’ve conserved over 200 million acres through a collaborative approach.

Indigenous-led conservation

Engaging and supporting Indigenous Governments, organization and communities to advance shared conservation priorities

Wetland protection on public lands

Working with governments and industry to develop wetland policies, conserve priority landscapes and promote sustainable land-use.

Science and innovation

Using science, mapping, and technology to guide conservation decisions and create innovative on-the-ground products and services.

Education and engagement

Inspiring action through education, hands-on training and public outreach, building the next generation of wetland stewards.

Restoration and land conservation

Exploring boreal wetland restoration and private land transfer that deliver wetland habitats, biodiversity and climate resilience.

Learn more about our broader Boreal strategy and long-term program initiatives on the National Boreal Program page, where we deliver science-based solutions for conserving wetlands, waterfowl and other boreal ecosystems across Canada’s Boreal region.

Take Action for Canada’s Boreal Region

The Green Heart Challenge: Boreal for Life

The boreal isn’t only beautiful; it provides clean air and water, protects communities from extreme weather, supports wildlife, and offers space to connect with nature.

It’s a defining part of who we are, and we need to work together to keep it on the map. The Green Heart Challenge unites Canadians to conserve 300 million acres of boreal landscapes by the end of 2030. This is your chance to be part of a globally significant conservation effort.

By donating today, you’ll keep boreal ecosystems and their incredible benefits intact—for life.

^“ When we're in a forest, among the trees, we're with our ancestors, our Elder relatives. The trees are talking to us, telling stories of life. The question is, are we listening? Elder Dave Porter, Kaska Nation

Boreal Region Stories

Boreal Forest, Education, Wetlands

Winnipeg high school students earn Ducks Unlimited Canada prize for Wildfire Management Solution

Fort Richmond Collegiate students take home first place in Ducks Unlimited Canada's national research competition.

Boreal, Boreal Forest, Partnerships

Wetland knowledge flows with support from TC Energy

Boreal Wetland Centre near Grande Prairie is a space for learning and collaboration.

Boreal, Boreal Forest, Wetlands

How do peatlands impact wildfires?

Wetland ecosystems found throughout Canada’s boreal region can help mitigate the impacts of wildfire.

Two canoeists and their dog on a boreal lake.

Why Donate to Ducks Unlimited Canada?

How you can make a difference

By supporting the Ducks Unlimited Canada Green Heart Challenge, you’re investing in the future of Canada’s boreal region. In partnership with Indigenous communities, governments, industry, and conservation leaders, every donation brings us closer to our 300 million acre goal while fueling the science and research that guide smart conservation decisions and education.

Together, these efforts drive stronger policies, more sustainable land use, and large-scale conservation outcomes, which will keep 300 million acres of boreal wetlands, wildlife habitat, and freshwater intact and healthy for this and future generations.

Conserving Canada's boreal region starts with you

Join the Green Heart Challenge today and conserve 300 million acres of the boreal region for life.

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