World Wetlands Day

Today, February 2nd, is World Wetlands Day and people around the world celebrate this to raise awareness about the importance of wetlands. This year’s theme, “Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future,” reminds us that we must take care of these ecosystems for the benefit of future generations.  Sadly, Saskatchewan continues to be the only province in Canada without a wetland policy, and we have lost an estimated 85% of our wetlands. 

Wetlands store carbon,  clean our water, protect us from floods,  and provide vital habitat for wildlife. From marshes to peatlands, these ecosystems are essential for fighting climate change and protecting biodiversity. This habitat is also home to many endangered species, providing essential habitats for breeding, feeding, and resting. 

On World Wetlands Day 2025, let’s remember that wetlands are not just for nature — they are for all of us. By reducing pollution, using water wisely, and supporting conservation efforts, we can help protect these important ecosystems. If we work together, we can ensure that wetlands continue to support life for many generations to come.

When wetlands are drained, we lose the benefits they provide of clean water, flood and drought protection, and recreation opportunities. In late 2019, the Saskatchewan Water Security Agency (WSA) began consulting stakeholders on a new Wetland Conservation Policy for agricultural land that would allow drainage to occur, but with limits designed to ensure the preservation of wetland benefits. The biggest deficiency of WSA’s policy is the provision allowing landowners to drain smaller wetlands in exchange for implementing alternate conservation measures, such as planting winter cereals or protecting other natural areas. While it’s great that they are talking about conserving other areas, that is still not the same as actually conserving wetlands.

Saskatchewan must have a Wetlands Conservation Policy that doesn’t fall short of what is actually needed. Please sign our petition today for a Saskatchewan Wetlands Protection Policy https://www.saskgreen.ca/sk_needs_a_wetlands_policy


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  • Naomi Hunter