Bears can sleep in (the) Peace this winter

Monday, December 18, 2023
A drawing of a bear hibernating in its den in winter

Site C dam delay will save hibernating bears from flooding

As we wrap up this year's holiday season, we'd like to share a heartwarming story that reflects the spirit of community and what can be achieved when people come together. Thanks to your support, we made a real difference, and it's a story worth celebrating.

If you've followed the Site C dam construction in British Columbia, you know it's faced countless delays. You might not know that BC Hydro had a plan to flood bear dens, even with hibernating bears inside them.

Rather than standing by, we took action. We researched, contacted the community, worked with the media, and teamed up with the Awi'nakola Foundation and local community members. We pressed the government to delay the flooding and protect the bears during winter hibernation.

Bear and bear cub and text that reads "BREAKING: BC's bear den destruction spurs province-wide protection calls

 

The good news? It worked! BC Hydro has postponed the flooding until 2024, ensuring the bears won't be disturbed while they sleep. This achievement shows what we can do when we unite for a common cause. It's a heartwarming reminder that change is possible, even in tough times.

Yet, this situation also highlights a more significant issue — the lack of wildlife protection laws in British Columbia. While celebrating this victory, it's clear more must be done to protect our wildlife and their habitats. That's why we're committed to advocating for wildlife protection laws in the coming year.

In 2024, we'll be reaching out to you again, asking for your support in our effort to create much-needed laws for wildlife protection. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a better future for all the incredible creatures in the province.

In the meantime, as you enjoy the holiday season with loved ones, take comfort in knowing that the bears are safe and sound in their dens this winter. It's a testament to the power of collective action, all thanks to you.

We all wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy New Year filled with hope, kindness, and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. 

Fancy meeting you here at the end of this article! Care to hang out together for a few more sentences?

The campaign you just read about is one of about 20 we’re actively working on at any given time. And the person who wrote this article is the same campaigner who’s asking you to take action, who’s calling on our legislators to make changes and who’s in the field to bring you photos, videos and stories documenting this issue.

Did you notice how we’re a bit distinct, that we’re not afraid to call out the industries or governments that threaten what’s wild? Unlike other groups, we’re almost 100 per cent* “people powered.” Individuals like you who care give what they can, when they can. No corporate or government funding restricts our strategies, our actions or our voice. That’s how we stay a lean, nimble and unequivocally relentless voice for wilderness, wildlife and the climate. That’s why we’d love it if you’d consider joining us by making a monthly donation to the Wilderness Committee today.

We’ve already established you like to read to the end, so here’s the fine print. It’s 96 per cent of our funding which comes from individuals like you and me. About four per cent of our total funding comes from a few grants from foundations. Every gift — no matter the size — has an impact and powers our work for nature.

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