Canadian Ecological Connectivity Conference 2025
April 22 - 25, 2025
EDL participated in the first-ever Canadian Ecological Connectivity Conference, a groundbreaking gathering focused on advancing ecological connectivity and fostering partnerships across Canada.
The conference brought together a wide range of voices – including practitioners, non-profit organizations, landowners, businesses, communities, Indigenous representatives, universities, and decision-makers from municipal, provincial, and federal agencies. Together, attendees worked to strengthen connections, share knowledge, and drive forward strategies to support ecological corridors, foster Indigenous stewardship values, improve habitat connectivity, and advance infrastructure that benefits both wildlife and people.
Held in Banff, Alberta, against the inspiring backdrop of landscape-scale conservation successes, the conference marked an important milestone in shaping a more connected, climate-resilient future for Canada.
From design insights and Indigenous leadership to on-the-ground learning and witnessing Banff’s ecology and wildlife firsthand, the conference showcased meaningful ways ecological connectivity is being imagined, experienced, and put into action across Canada. Dr. Aerin Jacob (Nature Conservancy of Canada) closed the conference: “Be the water, the flow that shapes the earth, and sustains life… remember the star that never fades, the North Star that guides us home across time and cultures on Turtle Island — Indigenous and settlers alike.” Let this call be our North Star – follow it, for a thriving future, for good relations, and to make hope along the way.
The whole team at EDL (SURP, TMU) gives big thanks to the organizing committee and Indigenous partners for an excellent week of knowledge-sharing and progress in connectivity science, policy, planning, and design — all critical to meeting Canada’s 30×30 commitment to biodiversity protection and recovery!