Jun 26 2025One-Year Anniversary of Clayoquot Sound Old-Growth Protections
History was made in Clayoquot Sound one year ago with the most significant expansion of old-growth protection in decades!
The Ahousaht and Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, in partnership with the BC NDP government, declared the protection of 760 km2 of land in 10 new conservancies in Clayoquot Sound near Tofino. These lands comprise some of the grandest and most intact coastal old-growth temperate rainforests on Earth.
The historic milestone also included significant support from provincial, federal and conservation sources to advance sustainable economic development opportunities for the communities.
A year on, we applaud the visionary leadership of the Ahousaht and Tla-o-qui-aht Nation for their work in protecting old-growth ecosystems in their territories while building pathways to conservation-based economies.
Victories like these serve as an inspiring model for what’s possible throughout BC. Clayoquot demonstrates that when First Nations’ protected area plans are supported through conservation financing, we can safeguard old-growth forests while supporting community economic, cultural, and social well-being.
From the mind-blowing ancient redcedar dubbed the “most impressive tree in Canada” on Flores Island to the world-famous ancient groves of Meares Island or the sweeping rainforest vistas of the Sydney River Valley, see what’s now protected thanks to this historic achievement!
Looking to explore this beautiful region? Be sure to check out Ahous Adventures, the Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society and Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks.
Inspired by these successes? We’re actively working with several First Nations communities in BC to help establish new Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas in some of the world’s grandest old-growth and rarest ecosystems. Your support helps protect these irreplaceable forests for all who depend on them. Make a donation.
Flores Island
Meares Island
Sydney River Valley
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