Grasslands: CWF and partners showcase the secret life of these ecosystems

The Canadian Wildlife Federation and a 35-member coalition launched The Secret Life of Grasslands campaign to raise awareness about the biodiversity and climate role of native grasslands. The release notes that fewer than 20 percent of native grasslands remain in Canada and that roughly 90 species at risk rely on these habitats.

The Canadian Wildlife Federation and a coalition of about 35 organizations have launched a public awareness campaign called The Secret Life of Grasslands. The campaign highlights the role of native grasslands in supporting wildlife, storing carbon and filtering water. Organizers say these ecosystems are often overlooked and can be mistaken for cropland or empty fields. The release notes that less than 20 percent of native grasslands remain in Canada. Key facts: - There are about 90 species at risk in Canadian grasslands, including birds and mammals such as the burrowing owl and the swift fox. - Less than 20 percent of native grasslands remain across Canada. - Grasslands store more than one-third of the world's land-based carbon, with most storage in soils. - The top 60 centimetres of soil in Canada's native grasslands hold more than 100 tonnes of carbon per hectare. - Organizers note that about two-thirds of grassland biomass is underground, so these systems function differently than forests. - Threats reported include climate change, invasive species and conversion of grassland to cropland or development. Summary: The campaign aims to increase public recognition of grasslands' ecological and climate roles and to draw attention to species that depend on them. Organizers emphasize collaboration among land stewards, Indigenous partners and conservation groups. Undetermined at this time.