Manitoba's Hudson Bay Lowlands
Ecosystem goods and services valuation
Covering nearly 10% of the province of Manitoba, the Hudson Bay Lowlands provides immense social, economical, and ecological values. Conserving large areas of this region would significantly advance the provincial government's commitment to increase protected lands and waters for future generations, a critical step in tackling climate change and biodiversity loss.
Key Findings
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Through the value of biodiversity conservation, hunting, tourism, and mental health, the Hudson Bay Lowlands provides at least CAD 247.7 million in economic value to the province of Manitoba and beyond.
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Home to one of the largest wetland and peatland systems globally, the region plays a crucial role through carbon storage, with an estimated 7 billion tonnes of soil organic carbon stored in Manitoba alone—a value of CAD 1.2 trillion.
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Conserving areas of this region, which covers nearly 10% of Manitoba’s landmass, would significantly advance governments' commitments of protecting at least 30% of terrestrial and inland water areas by 2030, while ensuring equitable governance and respecting the rights of Indigenous Peoples.
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The Lowlands are not only ecologically significant—they are also culturally vital. Five Indigenous nations are working to conserve a vast expanse of this region as an Indigenous Protected Area and to safeguard their lands, waters, and ways of life.
The Hudson Bay Lowlands is partially located in northeastern Manitoba, encompassing 67,000 square kilometres, which is nearly 10% of the province. This region is one of the world’s most ecologically intact landscapes and provides 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.
The Hudson Bay Lowlands provides nearly CAD 250 million in ecosystem goods and services 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 (a value of CAD 1.2 trillion)—and that's just in Manitoba.
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