Good News from the Biosphere - Summer 2025 — Howe Sound Biosphere Region

We are pleased to share good news stories from our partners and collaborators in our region. Here are some of the many news headlines since the Spring. The collective efforts of individuals and organizations of all sizes always make a difference.

Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation)

The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Nation and District of Squamish have signed a historic MOU—committing to shared decision-making, land back conversations, and a formal apology from the District. This agreement strengthens nation-to-nation relationships and reflects a shared vision for the future.

The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the Province of BC signed a historic Land Use Agreement. This landmark protects thousands of hectares of culturally and ecologically significant lands, including ancient forests, fish streams, and sacred sites. This is a powerful step for stewardship, sustainability, and reconciliation.

The Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish Nation) and the Province of BC published the Ntsew̓ásus (Shannon Basin) Visitor Use Management Strategy. The purpose of this Visitor Use Management Strategy is to guide the long-term management of Ntsew̓ásus (Shannon Basin), where Shannon Falls and the Chief Provincial Park attract thousands of visitors and users each year.

Growing Minds, Nurturing Nature: education happening in our Biosphere Region

The Britannia Watershed StoryMap—is now published. With a rich and complex history of ecological change, this area has so many stories to tell, and we can’t wait to share them with you.

Conservation

A significant milestone has been reached in restoring the Squamish River Estuary: four new culverts now help young salmon safely reconnect with critical rearing habitat, marking the successful completion of Phase 1.

The Squamish Youth Climate Corps is at work in the community supporting projects from tree planting to clean ups and education.

Bowen Island and the Village of Lions Bay added lands to the Canadian Protected and Conserved Database. These lands are recognized for their existing conservation values and add to our 30 x 30 biodiversity conservation targets. Read the articles here for Bowen Island and Lions Bay

Sustainable Development

There’s good news for tourism operators wanting to operate more sustainably—GreenStep’s Sustainable Tourism Certification offers a globally recognized path to improve and showcase your sustainability efforts.

After last December’s devastating landslide, the Lions Bay community is turning grief into resilience—with emergency response teams, residents, and local government coming together to strengthen future preparedness and communication.

Find links to read more about these stories here by following us on social media channels #howesoundbiosphere, where we update our news. https://buff.ly/3XnGxxb