Within fragmented landscapes there exist small, isolated pockets of ecological refugia that may be as important for native biodiversity conservation as larger prairie and parkland landscapes. Collectively, these smaller areas offer waypoints or refuge for migrating wildlife or serve as an oasis for species at risk. With increasing habitat fragmentation on the landscape, these isolated parcels need to be identified and studied, and for stewardship to be promoted where required.
Approaches and actions within the 2021-2025 PCAP were to define isolated habitats/fragments through a literature review of habitats important to native prairie obligates or species at risk, to identify locations of isolated native prairie habitats by utilizing existing GIS datasets, and to identify the value of these isolated parcels.
The 2026-2030 PCAP will continue to identify and map isolated native prairie habitats as necessary, delve more into the value of these habitats, and focus on education and communication.
Alberta Prairie Conservation Forum