Hudson Bay Lowlands bring nearly CAD 250 million to the Manitoba economy every year: New report

Winnipeg, MB, June 24, 2025 — The Hudson Bay Lowlands provide nearly CAD 250 million in ecosystem goods and services (EGS) per year through the value of biodiversity conservation, hunting, tourism, and mental health benefits. This vast landscape also stores an estimated 7 billion tonnes of soil organic carbon.

This is all according to a new report from the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), commissioned by the Manitoba chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS). The report highlights the economic, environmental, and social benefits of conserving these 67,000 square kilometres.

“The Hudson Bay Lowlands are one of Canada’s most powerful climate solutions and are part of the largest wetland and peatland system in the world,” said Marina Puzyreva, senior policy advisor at IISD. “The carbon storage value alone exceeds CAD 1.2 trillion, which is a substantial contribution in our efforts to mitigate climate change.”

The Hudson Bay Lowlands in northeastern Manitoba are one of the world’s most ecologically intact landscapes and, according to new research, provide millions in economic value every year. The region also holds immense value due to its rich Indigenous heritage, globally significant carbon stocks, and diverse wildlife, making it an excellent candidate for conservation.

Not only are they ecologically significant, but they are culturally vital. Five Indigenous Nations—York Factory First Nation, Fox Lake Cree Nation, Tataskweyak Cree Nation, War Lake First Nation, and Shamattawa First Nation—are working to conserve a vast expanse of this region as an Indigenous Protected Area and safeguard lands, waters, and ways of life.

“Protecting the Hudson Bay Lowlands means honouring generations of Indigenous stewardship and ensuring this globally significant landscape remains intact for our grandchildren’s grandchildren,” said Ron Thiessen, Executive Director of CPAWS’ Manitoba chapter.

The Lowlands cover nearly 10% of Manitoba’s landmass. Conserving large areas of this region would significantly advance the provincial government’s commitment to increasing protected lands and waters for future generations, a critical step in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss.

Read the full report: Manitoba’s Hudson Bay Lowlands: Ecosystem goods and services valuation  
 

Media Contacts

Brittney Le Blanc, Communications Officer, IISD: [email protected]

About CPAWS Manitoba

The Manitoba Chapter of the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS Manitoba) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to protecting Manitoba’s lands and waters for future generations. Founded in 1991, we are proudly built in Manitoba and committed to making sure the voice of conservation is heard on issues that affect our parks, wild spaces, and natural heritage.

We take a grassroots, science-based, and respectful approach to conservation—working collaboratively with communities, Indigenous Nations, and governments to safeguard nature and ensure sustainable land-use decisions. Our efforts have helped establish 23 parks and protected areas across the province, covering nearly 26,000 square kilometres—an area larger than Lake Winnipeg.

As Manitobans, we live, work, and play here—and we are passionate about protecting what makes this province so special.