Sand hills conserved
NCC
NCC completed the purchase of 315 acres (127 hectares), known as the Ethier Sandhills, in the Oak Lake Natural Area in southwestern Manitoba.
The site was sold to NCC by the previous landowner, who wished to protect the sand dunes in honour of his late mother.
Over the years, vegetation growing on the dunes has created stability and resulted in habitat for many rare or uncommon species. NCC has discovered 11 species at risk and uncommon species on the property, including silky prairie clover, which is listed as provincially threatened as well as of special concern nationally.
The property is also one of only a few places in Manitoba where the provincially imperilled spinystar can be found. The Ethier Sandhills are a haven for moose and other large mammals.
This conservation project was made possible due to the generous support of the Government of Canada (Environment and Climate Change Canada) and the Government of Manitoba.