On the Prairies we’re at the confluence of three major migratory flyways, and the Prairies, with their grasslands and wetlands make up one of the most important biomes for birds in North America.  The grasslands of Canada are among the most endangered and least protected ecosystems on the planet. The rapid and continued loss of grasslands is driving much of the unique wildlife that rely on this landscape towards extinction, over 60 federally listed Species at Risk are grassland species. As a group in Canada, grassland birds have declined by 60% since 1970, which is among the steepest declines of any bird group. This talk will discuss some of the root causes of grassland bird declines and Birds Canada’s work to find mutually beneficial solutions for wildlife, the environment, farmers, ranchers, and society at large, and create an agricultural system that actively conserves and recovers birds and biodiversity.

Ian Cook is the Grassland Conservation Manager at Birds Canada and brings a unique blend of agricultural expertise and a deep passion for conservation to his role. Ian grew up on a mixed farm in western Manitoba, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Manitoba and is a Professional Agrologist and Certified Crop Advisor. As Grassland Conservation Manager, Ian’s work focuses on addressing the root causes of grassland bird declines by developing pathways to encourage and incentivize biodiversity and bird conservation within the Canadian agricultural landscape.

Buy Tickets on Evenbrite for December 3rd, 2024 Discovery Evening