At the Association of Manitoba Municipalities (AMM) Fall Convention, delegates discussed and passed a resolution calling on the Province of Manitoba to fully consult the AMM, municipalities, property owners, and other stakeholders before advancing any federal 30 x 30 initiative here in Manitoba. The resolution reflects concerns that elements of the initiative, such as new protected areas, ecological corridors, and potential changes to Crown land use, could significantly affect municipal decision-making, local economies, and landowners if implemented without meaningful local engagement. As this file is evolving quickly, we will continue to keep members informed of any developments related to the 30 x 30 Initiative.
We would also like to extend our thanks to the MWF members who advocated this resolution at the local level, and to the municipal officials who brought it forward at convention.
Below is a copy of the resolution passed at the AMM Fall Convention on Thursday, November 27.
AMM Resolution: 30 x 30 Initiative
WHEREAS at COP 15 (Conference of the Parties), the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, 190 countries approved the United Nation’s Agreement to protect 30 percent of the planet’s land and oceans by 2030 (30 x 30 Initiative), including the Government of Canada; and
WHEREAS 30 x 30 Initiative includes additional Indigenous Protected and Conservation Areas, an Ecological Corridor Program (Parks Canada), and the transfer of Crown Lands to Federal Government to create national parks;
AND WHEREAS the Province of Manitoba signed a memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Canada to commit to spending $2.1 Million ;
AND WHEREAS the Province of Manitoba and the Government of Canada have not openly engaged Municipalities or the Association of Manitoba prior to committing to the 30 x 30 Initiative;
AND WHEREAS the policies withing the 30 x 30 Initiative will impact municipalities, property owners, and stakeholders;
AND WHEREAS these policies may have negative local economic impacts with the changes in land use;
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT the AMM be requested to lobby the Province of Manitoba, to consult with local governments, property owners and stake holders prior to moving forward with the 30 x 30 Initiative, to allow for better understanding if its policies and the ability to voice concerns.
