June 24, 2026
News Release – Watersheds Canada Receives Manitoba Habitat Conservancy Grant
Building on the success of its Nature Discovery Backpack program launched in 2021, Watersheds Canada is piloting a new “Youth Climate Change Leader” education program in 2026-27 in collaboration with Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS)-Manitoba, and Sage Creek School.
The pilot program will result in the creation of two lending libraries and the hosting of ten workshops that will give hundreds of children and youth access to backpacks filled with field equipment, activity books and resources to monitor local climate change impacts, and resources to deliver conservation projects in the Winnipeg, MB area.
“Watersheds Canada is thrilled to further expand its Nature Discovery Programming in Manitoba, this time reaching youth and educators who are living through the impacts of large and complex issues like urbanization, climate change, and wildlife population decline,” said Monica Seidel, Watersheds Canada’s National Education Director. “Program participants will be able to witness in real-time what is happening in Winnipeg and develop plans to make a positive difference for their environment.”
Manitoba Habitat Conservancy’s funding was made possible through the Government of Manitoba and The Winnipeg Foundation, and will support a wide range of projects that strengthen Manitoba’s landscapes.
“Conservation in our province is expanding, and it’s becoming more inclusive. We’re proud to stand alongside the organizations who are working towards these great environmental outcomes,” said Manitoba Habitat Conservancy’s Director of Trusts Samantha German.
“Protecting the lands and waters that define our province is one of the most important investments we can make for future generations of Manitobans,” said Manitoba Habitat Conservancy and Environment and Climate Change Minister Mike Moyes.
Watersheds Canada is proud to be among 38 organizations across Manitoba that received a combined $10.8 million in conservation funding. These projects will build more resilient landscapes, protect critical habitat, and deepen the connection between Manitobans and the natural environment.
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About Watersheds Canada
Watersheds Canada is a registered Canadian charity committed to providing programs to communities across the country to engage and help individuals enhance and protect the health of their lakes and rivers. Since 2002, they have delivered freshwater stewardship programming, shoreline naturalizations and assessments, and in-water habitat restorations. To learn more, visit Watersheds.ca
About Manitoba Habitat Conservancy
Manitoba Habitat Conservancy (MHC) is a Manitoba-based charitable organization dedicated to conserving, restoring, and enhancing fish and wildlife habitat across the province. Since 1986, MHC has worked alongside landowners, partners, and communities to keep Manitoba’s landscapes alive with people and nature, permanently conserving more than 200,000 acres of wetlands, grasslands, and other natural habitats through Conservation Agreements, and influencing tens of thousands more through restoration and stewardship programming. As administrator of the Conservation Trust, GROW Trust, and Wetlands GROW Trust, MHC also invests in conservation organizations province-wide, supporting nature-based solutions that deliver lasting benefits for both people and the environment. Learn more at mbhabitat.ca