Canada's new nature strategy funds Saskatchewan tree planting for carbon capture and biodiversity

Canada's federal government launched a national nature strategy called A Force of Nature, backed by $3.8 billion in funding through 2030. The plan includes $24.5 million for eight tree planting projects in Saskatchewan that aim to plant over five million trees. Officials say these projects will restore wildlife habitat, improve ecosystem health, and capture atmospheric carbon. The strategy focuses on three priorities: protecting nature, integrating conservation into economic development, and encouraging investment in natural capital. Indigenous leadership is highlighted as central to achieving conservation goals. The government claims restoring forests and expanding protected areas will create green jobs while improving air and water quality. Saskatchewan's projects are expected to support species at risk and reduce carbon. The broader strategy targets protecting 30 percent of Canada's lands and waters by 2030, leveraging the country's large boreal forests, lakes, and wetlands as natural carbon sinks.