The Fernie Trails Alliance (FTA) is pleased to share the news that the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) has purchased a large parcel of land in Fernie from DOMAN. This is an exciting milestone for conservation and recreation in our valley.
The FTA already has a land use agreement in place for a portion of the parcel and is amending the agreement with the NCC for the remainder of the trails, ensuring continued access and stewardship for the community. We want to sincerely thank DOMAN for many years of partnership and for granting trail access across their land. Their support enabled the FTA and its users trail access, and we are grateful for the collaboration we’ve enjoyed together.
This parcel is part of the East Kootenay Forest Lands Project, a generational opportunity to conserve over 45,000 hectares of high-biodiversity forest, representing nearly one-third of all private land in the Elk Valley. These lands connect into a 7,000 km² network of protected areas, safeguarding critical wildlife corridors for species such as grizzly bear, wolf, wolverine, and lynx.
Looking ahead, we are excited to work with the NCC and all recreational partners to build on this foundation of stewardship. Together, we will continue to enhance recreational opportunities, protect important natural areas, promote responsible wildlife recreation, and ensure these trails remain a source of enjoyment for generations to come.
The FTA is confident this new chapter will bring lasting benefits for the landscape, the trails, the wildlife, and the people who cherish them.
For the full press release, click here.
