In 1996, a number of Manitoba birders gathered to begin identification of potential Manitoba IBAs.
By 1999, over 100 locations were nominated for IBA status in Manitoba. After review, 38 sites met the criteria and were designated as IBAs. That same year, Nature Manitoba (then the Manitoba Naturalists Society) began IBA community conservation planning with the hiring of a conservation biologist.
In 2012, the IBA Caretakers volunteer program was launched by Nature Manitoba. Our goal is to recruit volunteer stewards for all of Manitoba’s 38 IBAs!
Our Vision
Diverse and sustainable bird populations valued by Manitobans.
Our Mission
Connecting people and nature to protect essential bird habitat in Manitoba IBAs.
Our Values
Community
Passion
Credibility
Sustainability
Our Strategic Priorities 2014-18
1) Develop and implement a communication strategy that includes a focus on the public, volunteers, and partners.
2) Build a supported community of volunteers by enhancing volunteer management capacity and increasing volunteer base.
3) Develop and enhance mutually beneficial partnerships.
4) Increase current funding and secure long-term sustainable funding.
Our Partners
The Manitoba IBA Program is coordinated by Nature Manitoba (the Manitoba Naturalists Society) with support from national partners Nature Canada and Bird Studies Canada.
Program Staff
Marissa Berard, Program Coordinator
Office: 204-943-9029
Email: iba@naturemanitoba.ca
Steering Committee
Tim Poole, Chair
Dr. Christian Artuso
Paula Grieef
Bonnie Chartier
Gillian Richards
Marika Olynyk
IBA Caretakers
Joanne Smith, Riverton Sandy Bar IBA (Facebook page)
Dave Nicol, Grant’s Lake WMA
Colin Blyth and Gillian Richards, Whitewater Lake (Facebook page)
Oak Hammock Marsh Interpretive Centre, Oak Hammock Marsh WMA (Facebook group)
Carrie Braden, Janice Madill and Tim Poole, Delta Marsh IBA
Bonnie Chartier, Marshy Point IBA
Glennis Lewis and Gillian Richards, Oak Lake/Plum Lake IBA