Ecological connectivity is the movement of living systems that unites tmxʷulaxʷ – land, siwlɬkʷ -water and tmixʷ -all living things. When tmixʷ can move without barriers, ecosystems are able to flourish and remain healthy.
The importance of connectivity
Connectivity:
- Protects wildlife, including species at risk (allowing them to forage, find appropriate shelter and have access to greater breeding populations which allows for genetic diversity)
- Reduces conflict between people and animals
- Supports natural systems that give us clean air, clean water, and food
- Helps prevent soil erosion and groundwater loss
- Provides natural areas that reduce flooding
- Creates buffers that can slow wildfires
Connectivity is Created by:
- Linking habitat areas with natural or planned corridors
- Using buffer zones where needed
- Adding small “stepping-stone” habitats when full corridors aren’t possible
Threats to Connectivity:
- Development and infrastructure
- Climate change
Extrapated or extinct species are at risk, ones that once thrived when the relationship with nature respected.
– nk̓lxʷcin, Chad Eneas, Knowledge Keeper