CABINET-PURCELL MOUNTAIN CORRIDOR CONSERVATION PROJECT. COLLABORATIVE CONSERVATION FRAMEWORK AND STRATEGIC PLAN October Photo: Harvey Locke

Transcription

1 CABINET-PURCELL MOUNTAIN CORRIDOR CONSERVATION PROJECT COLLABORATIVE CONSERVATION FRAMEWORK AND STRATEGIC PLAN October 2008 Photo: Harvey Locke

2 Table of Contents 1. Introduction The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Conservation Project... 3 The function and role of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor in Y2Y s Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy... 4 Y2Y s role in the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Project The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Strategic Plan... 6 Threats to the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor and associated project goals... 6 Goal 1 Secure Linkage Zones... 6 Goal 2- Ecological Restoration of Linkage Zones and Other High Quality Habitats.. 7 Goal 3: Transportation Route Mitigation Across Linkage Zones... 9 Goal 4- Coexisting with Wildlife Goal 5- Recreation Impact Management Goal 6- Adaptive Management and Monitoring Goal 7- Ensure Project Sustainability Current Structure Y2Y s vision for project implementation over the first three years Appendix 1: The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative Appendix 2: Y2Y s Approach to Determining Ecological Significance of the Cabinet- Purcell Mountain Corridor Appendix 3: Goals of Y2Y s Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy These goals are subject to amendment based on new research results Appendix 4: Methods and approaches used to develop the Collaborative Conservation Framework

3 1. Introduction The Cabinet-Purcell Corridor Conservation Project is a multi-faceted collaborative effort initiated by the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y) that has involved a partner network of over 85 different organizations, all of whom work to enhance connectivity and ecological integrity of the Cabinet-Purcell region. The collective vision of this diverse partner network is to restore and maintain an intact Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor that fosters maintenance and movement of healthy wildlife populations and ultimately resilient ecosystems. Through this cooperative engagement as partners with a shared vision and shared leadership, we will achieve this vision. Y2Y, with continual input from the Cabinet-Purcell partner network, has created this Collaborative Conservation Framework and Strategic Plan to detail the goals and measureable outcomes for the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Conservation Project, and to describe how these efforts will achieve our collaborative vision. This document is available to both existing and potential partners and funders. Contained herein is a brief introduction to and overview of the project, in addition to information regarding the role of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor within the Y2Y landscape. More in-depth information about Y2Y s role and the role of partners involved with the project s steering committee is also provided. The strategic plan contains short term and long term measureable outcomes associated with each project goal Appendices with further details about the project s history, methodology, and the scientific underpinnings of this work are included at the end of this document. 2. The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Conservation Project The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor represents approximately 20% of the entire Yellowstone to Yukon region, ranging from Missoula, Montana to north of Golden, British Columbia and covering over 70,000 km 2 (43,750 mi 2 ; Figure 1). The area is comprised of four mountain ranges: the Purcell Mountains of southern British Columbia (BC), the Cabinet Mountains of northwest Montana (MT), the Selkirk Mountains in southeastern BC and northern Idaho (ID), and the Bitterroot Mountains along the ID-MT Stateline. Together these ranges form a relatively contiguous block of wildlife-rich habitats with relatively low human development pressures. Y2Y identified the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor as a Priority Area within its Grizzly Bear Strategy in an initial assessment of the Yellowstone to Yukon region. Y2Y s Grizzly Bear Strategy uses grizzly bears as an umbrella species to conserve biodiversity and ecological integrity of terrestrial ecosystems. Further research into grizzly bear habitat use and connectivity needs confirmed the ecological significance of this area in terms of terrestrial connectivity (Appendix 2). The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor is one of two remaining corridors within Y2Y with the potential to connect essential large habitat strongholds for wide-ranging wildlife species across the United States and Canadian border. This vital movement corridor is increasingly fragmented by human activity, particularly roads and development, which have the potential to irreversibly alter habitat connectivity. 3

4 The function and role of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor in Y2Y s Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Priority Area is one of nine priority areas within Y2Y s Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy. By using grizzly bears as an umbrella species for this region, conservation efforts will also benefit myriad other species throughout this priority area. Figure 1: The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor. Priority Area boundaries are indicated by purple polygon. 4

5 The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor is one of two transboundary priority areas in the Yellowstone to Yukon region, and will contribute significantly to Y2Y s ability to achieve the goals of Y2Y s Grizzly Bear Strategy (Appendix 3). The Cabinet-Purcell region contains several small, isolated grizzly bear populations in tenuous habitat, and few large, secure habitats to meet their resource needs. The general goals for the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor are to maintain habitat cores, stabilize and enhance isolated populations, and ensure connectivity between highquality habitats. More specifically, draft goals for the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor within the context of Y2Y s grizzly bear strategy include: 1. Population size: At least 1500 grizzly bears are living in the Cabinet-Purcell region. This population number is subject to revision based on research results regarding carrying capacity and functionality of corridors. 2. Population distribution: Female grizzly bears occupy 60-70% of the Cabinet-Purcell region. 3. Linkage zones: All high priority linkage zones in the US and Canada have active conservation programs in place. 4. No bears are exterminated or relocated due to human conflict issues; communities are able to successfully coexist with grizzly bears and other wildlife species. Y2Y is in the process of refining these goals and including detailed measureable outcomes for the Cabinet-Purcell region. The goals will strive to take local threats and opportunities into account, fit within the context of the Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy, and allow for flexibility in onthe-ground project implementation (e.g., include projects that benefit a variety of species). Each of these goals will ensure wildlife can move safely within the Cabinet-Purcell region and to other priority areas, specifically the Crown of the Continent, Rocky Mountain Parks Complex, and Central Idaho Complex. By providing successful connectivity for grizzly bears within and beyond the Cabinet-Purcell region, connectivity for all other species with similar habitat and resource requirements will also be provided. In the long term, increased connectivity between Priority Areas will connect the highly isolated Yellowstone grizzly bear population to other grizzly bear populations in North America. Y2Y s role in the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Project Y2Y initiated this landscape scale project and has instigated coordination of the diverse efforts and contributions of the various partner organizations into a regional context. Y2Y currently contributes to this partner network in five main ways: 1) financial support (e.g., through partner grants and other funding programs); 2) communications support (e.g., through exposure on the Y2Y website and/or newsletter); 3) capacity-building support (e.g., through workshops); 4) science support (e.g., by helping supporting scientific research efforts and helping to disseminate results); and 5) conservation support (e.g., by facilitating collaborative efforts such as this conservation framework). Y2Y s role will continue to evolve over time, and within the next few years Y2Y will work with partners to shift from their current leadership role to a more equal partnership role in the collaborative network. 5

6 3. The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Strategic Plan Threats to the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor and associated project goals Extensive focal species research and assessment of conservation capacity (Appendix 2) revealed five major threats to the ecological integrity of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor: 1. Transportation corridors that create barriers to wildlife movement and increase mortality; 2. Human settlements cause wildlife displacement from key habitats; 3. Human-wildlife conflicts primarily over sanitation and livestock cause wildlife mortality; 4. Recreational activity that causes displacement of species from key habitats, and 5. Inadequate resource management and planning on public land, due to a lack of information and incentives, that results in species and habitat loss. From these threats, Y2Y and the project steering committee defined seven project goals. Together, these goals will mitigate the identified threats and ensure long-term connectivity within and around the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor. A steering committee consisting of various partner organizations has been formed to on regional issues. Each member of the steering committee is also a member of one of seven working groups whose purpose is to pursue one of the following project goals. Y2Y participates in all working groups to help develop, prioritize, and support identified conservation strategies and associated on-the-ground projects. The goals of the Collaborative Conservation Framework are: 1. Secure linkage zones (areas connecting high-quality habitats) 2. Ecological restoration of linkage zones and other high quality habitats 3. Transportation route mitigation 4. Promote human coexistence with wildlife 5. Adaptive management and monitoring 6. Recreation impact management 7. Ensure viability and sustainability of the program Goal 1 Secure Linkage Zones Y2Y and collaborators will help create and maintain secure linkage zones through private land acquisition, conservation easements, land exchange programs, and potentially through the procurement of new parks and protected areas. These efforts are tightly linked to those outlined in Goal 2 (restore linkage zones). Land acquisition and conservation easement programs require sensitivity that collaboration with other, more controversial conservation partners might compromise. Respectful of this, Y2Y will act as a connector, ensuring the land acquisition stream is strategically aligned with the other partners and strategies of the Collaborative Conservation Framework. There are essentially two separate phases associated with this goal: 1) to secure existing key areas for connectivity and, 2) to restore movements of grizzly bears to Selway-Bitteroot ecosystem. The Y2Y Strategic Advisor will work with Canadian and US partners to first secure parcels of land in linkage areas of immediate concern. For these projects, grizzly bears will be used as an indicator species for ecosystem connectivity across the landscape. Short term focus is on the first part of the goal, and long term focus on the second part. Short term measureable outputs: Determine key areas for land conservation 6

7 Secure the conservation value of those areas with various landowner-engaged land acquisition and conservation easement strategies. Long term measureable outcomes: Prioritized linkage zones permeable to large animal movements. Grizzlies are moving into the Selway-Bitterroot ecosystem and the area is repopulated with grizzly bears. Working Group Members Harvey Locke- Y2Y strategic advisor Gary Wolfe- Vital Ground Jamie Williams- The Nature Conservancy Legacy Project Doug Walker- The Nature Trust BC Mike Proctor- Birchdale Ecological Ryan Lutey- Vital Ground Rob Neil- The Nature Trust BC Sarah Canepa- Vital Ground Chris Servheen- US Fish and Wildlife Service Goal 2- Ecological Restoration of Linkage Zones and Other High Quality Habitats This goal is to ensure that wildlife linkage zones consist of high quality habitat, and other core habitats are restored to increase ecological integrity and connectivity on a landscape scale. Linear disturbances, such as roads and extractive activities, have caused extensive fragmentation and degradation of optimum habitats. The goal of the restoration working group is to identify and support key habitats (with a terrestrial component) that require restoration within the Cabinet- Purcell region. Providing educational programs/materials in key communities, incorporating citizen science campaigns that promote engagement and awareness of locals are also a part of this group s implementation strategy. Priorities and Issues 1. Focus on best first ; select those projects with the highest potential to make a difference. 2. Maintain high quality watersheds; particularly in the Northern and Southern anchors of Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor. 3. Focus on projects that integrate well with other goals in this document, and take into account the projects positive impacts on the identified focal species. 4. Focus on projects that return connectivity to fragmented areas. 5. Examine ecological benefits of any restoration project first, and then consider the area s economics and community/workforce. Focus Areas and Communities Southern Anchor (Coeur D Alene, Nez Perce Tribal lands, Clearwater National Forest) Headwater/Hawkins Creek (Yahk to Yaak) Highway 3 corridor Central and Northern Purcell Mountains (from Purcell wilderness to the Canadian Glacier National park; Incommapleux/ Duncan Headwaters) Meeting this goal will require: Identifying all key habitats that require habitat restoration. 7

8 Prioritizing these habitats based on proximity to known and prioritized linkage zones and/or species population goals, and/or areas critical to the persistence of endangered species. Identifying and contacting additional partners. Raising funds to carry out and monitor habitat restoration projects, develop and implement effective monitoring techniques for each project, and disseminate results. Working with various partner organizations to implement habitat restoration projects throughout the Cabinet-Purcell region. Adoption of the Society for Ecological Restoration definition to ensure a consistent definition of restoration is in place for the entire region. Include citation from website. Developing transboundary relationships, particularly in the Yaak to Yahk region. Involving the public in habitat restoration efforts to increase support for projects and contribute to increased public awareness of wildlife and wilderness issues. Researching the impacts of restoration on aquatic species, and the benefits of restoration to grizzly bear movement, ecosystem functioning, and local economies. Instigating public and political awareness programs and lobbying. Using exclusively native species for restoration. Short term measureable outputs: All key habitats in need of restoration in the Cabinet-Purcells have been identified; all key projects within these habitats have been identified. Implement research projects to determine and evaluate the efficacy of restoration for multiple species and at multiple scales. Funding for habitat restoration projects is in place, both in Canada and the US At least 6 different on-the-ground habitat restoration projects are being implemented (3 in Canada, 3 in the US). The Yaak to Yahk program has a transboundary coordinator and is well organized and functional program. Implement restoration projects that address aquatic and terrestrial habitats through reduction of fragmentation and protection of core habitat. Long term measureable outcomes: Sustainable critical native and anadramous fisheries habitat and aquatic connectivity is restored on public lands throughout the Cabinet-Purcell Priority Area 100% of National Forest lands/crown lands have road densities that allow movement of terrestrial and aquatic species; 50% of National Forest lands/crown lands have road densities that allow for core habitat use by a full compliment of terrestrial and aquatic species (from grizzly bears to anadramous fish). Monitoring programs prove that various terrestrial and aquatic species, including grizzly bears, are using the restored habitats. The public, government agencies, and industry incorporate habitat in all land use practices. Restoration is a significant and sustainable part of many rural economies. Local communities are engaged in restoration projects and programs through project implementation, job creation, etc. Working Group Members Adam Switalski- Wildlands CPR Rebecca Lloyd- Nez Perce Tribe Robyn King- Yaak Valley Forest Council 8

9 Bill Green- K tunaxa Intertribal Fisheries Commission David Forestieri- Nez Perce Tribe Goal 3: Transportation Route Mitigation Across Linkage Zones To enable wildlife movement across transportation routes through linkage zones across the landscape is the purpose of this goal. This working group will increase opportunities for wildlife safe crossings of highways and railroads, and to improve coordination of linkage areas in transportation planning. This will be done through the promotion and strategic placement of wildlife mitigation structures, over/under passes, signage in key crossing areas. Priorities and Issues 1. Extend Road watch and Citizen Science program focused on wildlife mortalities and associated issues along Highway 3 from Cranbrook to Trail, British Columbia. 2. Engage with the International Selkirk Loop to promote wildlife friendly transportation. 3. Take steps to bring the Banff s Whyte Museum exhibit on highways and wildlife to key communities in a timely manner. 4. Continue working with government transportation agencies to build on their work. 5. Procure the following information to determine priority projects for future implementation and support. - Identify hot spots of high wildlife-transportation conflict. - Determine which areas pose a significant threat. - Examine details of wildlife mortality along the region s highways. - Estimate projected future use of highways. - Identify gaps in current data sets and associated required research efforts. Focus Areas and Communities: Highway 3: Kaslo to Cranbrook Highway 2: Bonner s Ferry to Libby Highway 95: Coeur D Alene to Junction with Highway 3 Highway 200: Dixon to Junction with Highway 95 Interstate 90: Ninemile to Lookout Pass Meeting this goal will require: Identifying linkage zones that are hotspots for various wildlife species and high collision locations. Identifying hotspots of high numbers of wildlife vehicle collisions (both potential and actual). Prioritizing these hotspots for conservation work based on connectivity throughout the Cabinet-Purcell region and connectivity to adjacent priority areas. Identifying opportunities for mitigation and partnership. Identifying mitigation tactics and implementing appropriate projects. Monitoring success of mitigation tactics. Working with land trusts to secure conservation easements, providing county overlays of wildlife linkage areas to counties, participating in the Forest Planning process. Mitigating for wildlife connectivity by tying mitigation with culvert and bridge replacement. Community education about the transportation and land use planning interface. Short term measureable outputs: 9

10 Create maps of priority areas that include ADTs (average daily traffic) for both highways and railways, STIPs (highway projects for next 5 years, road kill and animal-vehicle collision statistics, existing transportation structures, land ownership, location of housing structures. Retrofitting existing structure to increase effectiveness. Recommendations for mitigation to be made by a landowner/agency working group, a hired expert, or an agency work group. Long term measureable outcomes: Improved coordination with land use planning (at the county level and higher). Community education programs are building political and public support for highway mitigation efforts. Ministries of Transportation in Canada and the Departments of Transportation in the US consider highway mitigation for wildlife in their planning process. Working Group Members Rob Ament- Western Transportation Institute Kim Davitt- American Wildlands Colleen Matte- Selkirk/Purcell Grizzly Bear Conservation Society Chris Steeger- CPAWS BC Joanne Sideirus- Bear Aware- Nelson/ Wildlife Biologist Goal 4- Coexisting with Wildlife This will be accomplished through two different approaches, one addressing infrastructure (e.g., bear proof bins) and the other addressing public education issues. Improved infrastructure and waste management will be accomplished through on-the-ground conservation projects such as bear-proof bin exchange programs, wildlife-proofing sanitation sites, and decreasing the presence of attractants within and around communities. The promotion of trans-boundary collaboration of wildlife management officials will be used to increase the presence of wildlife conflict personnel throughout the region. The public education component will continue the cultural shift in mass perception toward respectfully living with wildlife, which will translate into measureable changes in personal and collective actions and behaviours within years. Sustainable residential, commercial, and industrial development will be promoted through community outreach programming. Focus Areas and Communities: Canada: Central and East Kootenays US: Lincoln and Sanders Counties Lardeau river valley 3a. Improved infrastructure and waste management Priorities and Issues 1. Sanitation of community dump sites to minimize negative interactions with bears. 2. Implementation of Bear Aware education programs. 3. Bear proof garbage bin program. 4. Fencing of dump sites. 5. Conflict specialist to conduct negative conditioning on bears who are exhibiting habituated behaviours. 6. Part-time bear problem specialist in Canada. 10

11 7. Livestock/Orchard/Bee Yards. 8. Hunting policies. Meeting this goal will require: Identifying hotspots of human wildlife conflict due to improperly disposed human garbage. Identifying all potential ways to address this conflict, specific to each hotspot. Identifying which hotspots fall within indentified linkage zones, and in which areas conflicts results in extermination of the animal. Developing partnerships with Park managers and government agencies, town administrations, protected area users, and other organizations. Implementing various sanitation projects (e.g., bear proof bins, electric fencing) to address this goal in prioritized areas. Short term measureable outputs: Identify geographical sinks for wildlife linkage zones where they cross areas of significant human habitation; identify reasons for wildlife mortality in these areas. Government agencies are beginning to incorporate sanitation measures in planning efforts. Sanitation projects are underway in each of the hotspots associated with a linkage zone within the Cabinet-Purcell region. Projects are planned for linkage zones that connect the Cabinet-Purcell region to other priority areas. Long term measureable outcomes: Government agencies and town administrations inherently plan for wildlife sanitation measures in all areas where it is an issue. On-the-ground projects are implemented in all linkage zones that connect the Cabinet- Purcells to other priority areas. Long term funding for wildlife conflict specialist personnel is secured. 3b. Shifting cultural perception towards coexisting with wildlife Priorities and Issues 1. Wildlife management specialists hired and trained in aversive conditioning techniques. 2. Bear Aware programs. 3. Citizen science campaigns. 4. Disperse wildlife information through education systems, development pressures, and transportation issues. 5. Instigate a business-based program that provides assistance to new businesses or provides additional support to a leader in the business community. Meeting this goal will require: Identifying which communities and rural areas are most in need of outreach and education programs; and which audiences should be focused on. Identifying most appropriate and effective outreach methods for these audiences. Identifying and understanding existing knowledge/attitudes as a baseline. Developing relationships with school boards and other educational facilities to incorporate coexisting with wildlife messaging in school curriculums etc. Helping develop educational programs that also communicate the local, regional, and global significance of the region to local communities. 11

12 Short term measureable outputs: Communities in need of educational and outreach programs have been identified. Knowledge gaps in these communities have been identified through surveys or interviews with local experts. Negotiations to include relevant messaging in school curriculums and other programs are underway. Long term measureable outcomes: Citizens living in communities adjacent to wilderness have structures, information, and institutions in place to ensure safe coexistence with the wildlife that shares their space. Youth learn about how to better coexist with wildlife at school and in other community forums. Businesses work to improve coexistence through business practices. Agencies (local and regional government) plan for and include coexisting with wildlife in their management and policy decisions. Working Group Members Laura Duncan- Kutenai River Network Colleen Matte- Selkirk/Purcell Grizzly Bear Conservation Society Helen Sander- Mark Creek Recovery Program Wayne Kasworm- US Fish and Wildlife Service Robert Newell- Bear Aware Kimberley Gillian Sander- Bear Aware Kaslo Mike Proctor- Birchdale Ecological Sterling Miller- National Wildlife Federation Goal 5- Recreation Impact Management This working group s goal is to increase awareness among communities about how recreational use can impact flora, fauna, water systems, and habitat connectivity; to use a geographical based approach to recreation management; promote ecologically sustainable use of both motorized and non-motorized recreation at an appropriate scale; and to support efforts to enforce existing laws or regulations where they do not currently exist or need to be improved. Priorities and Issues: Actively participating in the US Forest Service Forest Travel Planning process. Capacity building to participate in the NEPA process Participate in land-use designations associated with heli-skiing, snowmobiling, and ATV recreational use. Focus Areas and Communities: 1. Golden/Revelstoke motorized recreation (snowmobiles and ATV s) 2. Kookanoosa Reservoir 3. Columbia Wetlands motorized recreation 4. Southern Purcell mountains ATV use Meeting this goal will require: Identifying areas where recreational impacts are most severe or potentially severe throughout the Cabinet-Purcell region. These areas are prioritized based on proximity to a linkage zone and amount and type of recreation. 12

13 Developing relationships with user groups and individual, in particular non-motorized users first in order to create a base of support. Then conduct outreach to motorized user groups. Implementing regulations (motorized and non-motorized) that ensure recreation opportunities while protecting ecosystem values. Developing relationships with protected area managers, particularly those who permit motorized recreation within their area. Various types of public communication program (e.g., flyers, public presentations) to help educate all recreational users as to their potential impacts and ways to mitigate them. Creating compromise with area users to ensure that people still have recreational opportunities while impacts to wild ecosystems are minimized. Using strategic communication outreach strategies to educate elected officials at all levels about recreational impacts. Short term measureable outputs: Identify recreational impacts in priority linkage areas and assess impacts from these uses in the priority linkages. Identify communities in these priority linkages and focus action (communication programs) on them. Create a profile of organizational capacity in priority communities. - Identify non-motorized users/groups and leaders that can effectively organize them (start creating quiet coalitions). - Identify motorized recreational interests in priority communities and pursue direct dialogue if there is an opportunity to do so. Create a strategy and campaign plan for priority communities. Pursue legislative approach to increase fines, visible license plates on machines, registration funds to monitoring and enforcement. This legislation is in place in BC. Specific programs are in place to address the impacts of amenity migrants and tourists. Long term measureable outcomes: Land management agencies close routes that have high recreational impacts and work to restore those routes. Land management staff monitor recreation impacts and take efforts to mitigate them. Effective enforcement mechanisms are in place. Licensing fees have changed from expanding ORV use to enforcement and monitoring. Tourists and amenity migrants have shifted their behaviour patterns to minimize their recreational impacts on the landscape. Working Group Members: Adam Rissien- Wildlands CPR Rachael Darvill- Wildsight Chris Beers- Ktunanxa Intertribal Fisheries Commission Goal 6- Adaptive Management and Monitoring Adaptive management is an on-going process that requires flexibility in management. Means to encourage this type of management are already underway in the Cabinet-Purcell Corridor, particularly in terms of grizzly bear research and management. The Trans-boundary Grizzly Bear Project, a collaborative effort between Birchdale Ecological and the US Fish and Wildlife Service, is a groundbreaking project that has erased geopolitical boundaries and fused cuttingedge wildlife monitoring techniques with management planning. This research has helped identify key linkage areas for threatened grizzly bear populations in the Selkirk, Purcell, and 13

14 Cabinet Mountains. In addition, Y2Y Partner Grants have contributed to further research in the Cabinet-Purcell corridor aimed at better understanding grizzly bear habitat use across the landscape and within linkage zones. The results of this research will be shared with various partners in the region and used to update maps and reports. These documents are in turn used to influence planning and wildlife management in the area. Future scientific research projects will evaluate and monitor the successes of management actions to assess what further amendments are required. Working Group Members Mike Proctor- Birchdale Ecological Chris Servheen- US Fish and Wildlife Service Wayne Kasworm- US Fish and Wildlife Service Goal 7- Ensure Project Sustainability This will be done by attracting new resources to the region, increasing the capacity of local organizations, and communicating the global significance of the Cabinet-Purcell Corridor to audiences outside the region. To this end, Y2Y has strived to improve communications between partner organizations (through the secure partner log-in section of the Y2Y website, in addition to various meetings and workshops), and has drafted a communications strategy for the region that will be implemented starting in 2009.Many projects used to address the program objectives are long-term endeavors. Ensuring viability and sustainability of partner ENGOs who are responsible for implementing on-the-ground conservation programs is integral to maintaining an ecologically healthy and connected landscape throughout the project area. The foundation for success of the project s goals was established through the creation of a network of 85 organizations, 34 of which have significantly contributed to the creation of this Collaborative Conservation Framework. Engaging new partners has been successful through Y2Y s efforts, particularly the work of two contractors who actively seek participation from other local organizations. Mentorship by Y2Y and our continental network of over 280 organizations also provides further avenues for local organizations to increase their capacity. Increasing capacity of organizations is accomplished through skill-building workshops, distribution of information technology (both software and hardware), and financial support through the Partner Grant program. Since then the Partner grant program has been used extensively to financially support several key projects in the Cabinet-Purcell region, including positions among local organizations and pilot projects. Y2Y has leveraged support for this program with generous leadership and funding from the Legacy Fund. Another approach to ensuring sustainability and viability of the program is communicating the importance of the Cabinet-Purcell Corridor and project successes to arenas outside the Cabinet- Purcell region. In 2008, Y2Y developed a communications strategy that targeted five distinct audiences in the Cabinet-Purcell region: 1) residents; 2) weekend warriors /tourists; 3) extractive industry; 4) government agencies; 5) First Nations/Native Americans. The strategy details themes, messages, and tools to communicate the significance of the Cabinet-Purcell corridor to each of these audiences. Communicating research results and the successes of various projects has improved communication within the partner network. These results are also used to demonstrate our success towards achieving our vision. Research results are presented through a variety of forums including: conference presentations, scientific journal articles, magazine articles, press releases, radio interviews, etc. Events such as these position Y2Y to attract new resources to the region and promote program vitality in perpetuity. 14

15 In 2008 and 2009, Y2Y will instigate a the creation of a plan for project future direction and structure that will take the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Project to the next level of collaboration and shared leadership. 4. Current Structure Twice a year, the steering committee meets to reassess project goals and measureable outcomes, discuss and prioritize local and regional on-the-ground projects, evaluate successes and consider learning opportunities. Y2Y seeks and creates opportunities that promote the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor and highlight its regional and international significance. Y2Y also promotes the importance of protecting core-area anchors in the northern and southern parts of the region through public awareness campaigns. Resources to execute this work is continually pursued by Y2Y and interested partners. Y2Y also summarizes the results of transboundary partner meetings and teleconference calls, distributes this information to all members of the partner network, and produces a quarterly e-newsletter about the project. Y2Y s vision for project implementation over the first three years Year Y2Y implemented Phase I of the Conservation Framework primarily by establishing working groups for each of the identified program goals. Y2Y then worked with groups to refine the program strategies and maximize efficiency of funds and suitability of projects. At the end of the first year, each existing working group contributed to at least one pilot project. In addition, Y2Y supported research efforts to ensure that the Conservation Framework is targeting the most vital linkage areas in the Cabinet-Purcell corridor continued. Year Steering committee members, including Y2Y, are currently implementing as many of the strategies and projects outlined in this document as resources permit. Y2Y is increasing its efforts to focus on collaborative leadership and build financial sustainability for individual projects. These efforts will contribute significantly towards project sustainability. Towards the end of Year 2, Y2Y will complete a full assessment of the Collaborative Conservation Framework and produce a publication to communicate this unique and organic approach to regional conservation at the local, regional, and international scale. Year Y2Y s intends its focus for the third year of the project to be almost solely on sustainability. The collaborative effort will continue to implement numerous projects. Emphasis will be placed on regional-level projects and sustainability, including increasing public awareness of conservation efforts in the region. Y2Y will place emphasis on providing the tools and ability that ensure financial sustainability at the local level, thus increasing the longevity of each program goal s associated projects and activities. In the third year, Y2Y intends to decrease its financial presence, but will remain involved as partner in this collaborative network. Y2Y s primary responsibilities during this time will be helping ensure the tools, frameworks, and capacity to guarantee project sustainability are in place. Y2Y will continue to provide the regional and landscape scale context for project planning and implementation, as well as providing suggestions for the integration of Y2Y s Avian and Aquatic Conservation Strategies. Y2Y will also continue to support research and monitoring of wildlife linkage zones to ensure regional connectivity in one of the last remaining intact mountain ecosystems on earth. 15

16 5. Appendix 1: The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative (Y2Y) has been referred to as the hundredyear vision to protect the wild heart of North America. The region stretches 3,200 km (1,988 mi) from the Northwest corner of the Yukon Territory in Canada to Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming in the United States covering an area of 1.3 million km 2 (502,000 mi 2 ; Figure 1). The entire Y2Y region encompasses five US states, two Canadian provinces, and two Canadian territories. It is one of the world s few remaining landscapes with the geographic variety and biological diversity to allow species stressed by a changing climate and expanding human development to adapt. Our work has deeply influenced the region s wildlands, wildlife and human communities through long-term objectives designed to identify, maintain and restore a vital network of wildlife habitats along the Rocky Mountain Cordillera. Three main objectives have guided our work throughout the Y2Y region: 1) determining areas of ecological significance; 2) identifying associated conservation issues and; 3) supporting related conservation efforts. In terms of the first two objectives, Y2Y has used a three-tiered approach to landscape scale conservation: grizzly bear populations and habitat requirements (umbrella species approach), avian migratory pathways and habitat use (using 20 focal species), and an aquatic strategy (focusing on watersheds and focal species). Together, these three tiers account for a large portion of the Y2Y landscape and its inhabitants, thus facilitating an ecosystem-based approach to conservation. For each tier, areas of particular ecological significance have been researched. This has resulted in nine defined priority areas for grizzly bear populations throughout the Y2Y landscape. Twelve avian priority areas have also been defined for the Y2Y region, and an avian conservation strategy is currently being developed. Aquatic priority areas at the Y2Y scale are in the process of being defined. Within the grizzly bear priority areas, Y2Y assessed environmental threats and opportunities and determined current capacity for conservation activity. Subsequently, we have chosen to focus efforts in the most threatened priority areas where conservation efforts can benefit most dramatically from additional capacity. The Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor is one of these priority areas. Figure 1: Map of Yellowstone to Yukon Region Within North America. Y2Y region boundaries fall within the black polygon. 16

17 Y2Y s daily operations within priority areas are focused on meeting our third objective, supporting conservation efforts. This is accomplished by providing information and financial support, helping create public awareness, and building conservation capacity. Information is provided to our partner network through commissioning scientific research, which leads to the production of technical reports and/or scientific journal articles. These reports are not only shared electronically with our partners, but also through Y2Y organized workshops and conferences. These workshops serve to bring various organizations together to strategically identify and prioritize landscape scale conservation goals. As a not-for-profit initiative, Y2Y is continually raising funds through foundations, government grants, and public donations. A portion of this funding is then re-granted to various Environmental Non-Governmental Organizations (ENGO s) through Y2Y s Partner Grant Program, thus providing our partners with the increased financial support they require to implement on-the-ground conservation projects. Building public support and awareness is accomplished through organized events and media coverage that promote the Y2Y vision and bring key environmental issues to light. These events also contribute to building conservation capacity and momentum throughout the region. By working directly with partner groups, and liaising with ENGOs, industry, government departments, and other stakeholder groups on specific issues, Y2Y can increase conservation capacity through research and/or advocacy efforts in key landscapes. 17

18 6. Appendix 2: Y2Y s Approach to Determining Ecological Significance of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor Ecological studies and surveys confirm the ecological importance of this region for numerous species and at numerous scales. Y2Y s approach to conservation in the Cabinet-Purcell region has been to study the area as per the three tiers discussed in section 1 (grizzly bear populations and their habitat use, avian focal species, and aquatic watershed conservation). To date the project has mainly focused on enhancing linkages and restoring habitat for far-ranging terrestrial species, particularly grizzly bears. We fully recognize, however, that this region provides essential habitat for myriad species that together support and define the region s ecological integrity. Grizzly Bear Research The ecological significance of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor for grizzly bear conservation has been well established. Grizzly bear research and conservation in the region has been a key program of the US Fish and Wildlife Service s grizzly bear recovery team for several years. Research commissioned by Y2Y re-emphasizes the need to incorporate specific grizzly bear conservation strategies into land use planning. Because grizzly bears occupy extremely large expanses of habitat, they may function as an umbrella species, thus conserving grizzly bear habitat and resources will also contribute to the conservation of multiple plant and animal species who occupy the same geographical range. Grizzly bear movement within and around the Cabinet-Purcell Corridor has become extremely restricted and in some areas no longer possible due to significant and increasing habitat fragmentation. Throughout this highly developed region, only four grizzly bear populations remain (the Cabinet, Yaak, Selkirk, and Central Purcell populations). Risks associated with island biogeography and population extirpation have increased because these populations are not connected. Wildlife populations that are free to disperse and are less restricted in their choice of habitats are less susceptible to regional extirpation due to human activities. Therefore, maintenance and, in some cases restoration, of dispersal corridors throughout the region, particularly across the US Canada border, is critical to stopping the northwestward contraction of the grizzly bears range. Supporting and augmenting grizzly bear populations throughout the region, particularly in the US, is critically linked to habitat connectivity and the restoration of potential linkage zones. If habitat connectivity to more genetically robust populations north of the region is not restored, grizzly bears could become extirpated from the lower 48 states. Avian Research Y2Y s Conservation Department is undertaking the Avian Conservation Strategy for the entire Yellowstone to Yukon Region. This strategy will be based on recent research that investigated habitat requirements and migratory pathways of 20 focal bird species throughout the Yellowstone to Yukon region. Research results have contributed to the delineation of 12 avian priority areas throughout the region. One of these priority areas closely overlaps with the southwestern portion of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor. The Cabinet Purcell region is a critical area for several bird species including White-tailed Ptarmigan, Golden Eagle and the Common Loon. The region also provides a variety of critical avian habitat from valley wetlands to alpine tundra. Once the avian conservation strategy for the entire Yellowstone to Yukon region is completed in 2008, we will develop and integrate avian-specific conservation strategies for the Cabinet-Purcell region into our existing conservation framework. 18

19 Aquatic Research Three major river basins originate in the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor: The Kootenay, Upper Columbia and Middle Columbia. Research commissioned by Y2Y regarding fish speciation has shown that all but two species in these basins have been severely homogenized with exotics resulting in genetic composites notably different from the original native species. A total of 47 introduced species (accidentally or intended) and 31 native species reside in the region s watersheds; these 31 native species comprise only 35% of the fish population. Coho salmon has been extirpated from the region, and two other native species, the Pacific lamprey and Chinook salmon, are near extirpation with populations existing in only one river basin. Habitat damage and loss are likely the primary factors contributing to the decline of native fish. There are several relatively undisturbed watersheds in the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor that act as strongholds for several unique native fish species that warrant protection. The Nez Perce Tribe, in collaboration with government agencies and ENGOs, have been instrumental in promoting the return of healthy native fish populations through significant and systemic restoration projects, particularly in the northern Bitterroot Mountains. This work is only the first step, however, and more restoration efforts are required for long-term success of native fish populations. Y2Y will be creating an aquatic strategy that takes these factors into account; scheduled for completion in

20 7. Appendix 3: Goals of Y2Y s Grizzly Bear Conservation Strategy These goals are subject to amendment based on new research results. Across the Yellowstone to Yukon region, the goals of the grizzly bear conservation strategy are: 1. 17,000-20,000 grizzly bears exist in well-distributed, well-connected populations throughout the Yellowstone to Yukon region; % of the Y2Y landscape is managed for grizzly bears; 3. 1 million acres of new protected lands enhance security along the edges of existing core areas and provide new high quality habitat areas; 4. All major highway transportation corridors are permeable to grizzly bear movement; 5. 75% of the public that visits or lives in grizzly bear habitat is knowledgeable about how to live in grizzly bear country; 6. Over 50% of rural and urban communities living near grizzly bear habitat have bearresistant garbage containers and other types of deterrents that prevent bears from becoming habituated to human-associated sources of food; 7. Significant reduction in the number of new large recreational and extractive industry developments which increase human access and habitat degradation in grizzly bear cores and corridors (e.g., Jumbo Glacier Resort in the Purcell Mountains, the Rock Creek Mine in the Cabinet Mountains). 20

21 8. Appendix 4: Methods and approaches used to develop the Collaborative Conservation Framework Determining conservation need in the Cabinet-Purcell Corridor was addressed from two different perspectives. First, Y2Y identified potential partners and investigated capacity of conservation organizations and campaigns within the region. Second, we conducted a thorough investigation of requirements to maintain habitat connectivity within and around the Corridor; this included identification of terrestrial focal species and threats to the area s ecological integrity. Research results were then evaluated by the project s steering committee, a group of select Y2Y partners and scientists consisting of 23 individuals representing 16 different organizations based throughout the project region. Phase 1 - Research Focal species selection The five focal species selected to assess the functional habitat connectivity of the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor were the grizzly bear, Canada lynx, mountain goat, mountain caribou and fisher. Collectively these species represent a wide variety of habitat types and dispersal mechanisms, and involve a top-down community regulator approach relevant to the scale of the Cabinet-Purcell Corridor. Focal species research Y2Y conducted an assessment of focal species life history and habitat requirements. We conducted this research through an in-depth literature review and mapping exercise, using habitat fragmentation and connectivity issues as our research framework. To date, the most comprehensive research has been conducted on grizzly bear populations and habitat use. Therefore, much of the current conservation strategy is based on this large carnivore. Identification of linkage zones To address the issue of decreasing terrestrial habitat connectivity, specific sites within the Cabinet-Purcell Corridor have been identified as linkage zones. Linkage zones are sections of land that encourage wildlife movement through an area despite potential human activity. Several linkage zones have been identified in the Cabinet-Purcell region through collaborative research efforts examining wildlife movement across landscapes using GPS collars. These research efforts involving government agencies, scientists, and private citizens have also contributed towards the creation of a map outlining animal movement throughout the Cabinet-Purcell region. Future research efforts to refine our understanding of grizzly bear movement and habitat use across the landscape are on-going. Phase 2 Capacity Assessment Y2Y also completed an assessment of conservation activity for the Cabinet-Purcell Mountain Corridor and developed a comprehensive partnership database. This aspect of the methodology is ongoing as additional partner organizations are added to the network. Phase 3 Planning By synthesizing the focal species and capacity assessment data, Y2Y developed an initial list of key conservation issues and developed this collaborative conservation framework containing project objectives and goals. This document has been continually evaluated by key partners and is updated twice a year. Partners forming a project steering committee have been separated into working groups, one to address each identified conservation goal. 21