WHC's Contributions to the Ramsar Report (2003/2004)

Many of Canada’s wetlands have gained national importance by being designated as Migratory Bird Sanctuaries, National Wildlife Areas or Ecological Reserves. Thirty-six Canadian wetlands have gained international importance by being designated as International Ramsar sites – wetlands of world significance. The wetlands in the Grand Codroy Valley, NL, Creston Valley, BC and the Queen Maud Gulf in Nunavut are examples of such sites.

Canada has many wetlands that are crucial habitats for sustaining domestic, as well as international, wildlife diversity and populations. In designating and managing international Ramsar wetland sites, it is important to understand their ecological importance in biodiversity conservation, their distribution and qualities, the threats that affect them, and the land/water use opportunities to conserve and protect them.

The Canadian Wildlife Service of Environment Canada compiles information on our country’s contributions and activities that support the International Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Wildlife Habitat Canada has completed a series of items involving wetland conservation and protection projects in Canada and some other related studies that contribute to the Ramsar objectives.