Edéhzhíe Dehcho Dene Protected Area

Canada's first Indigenous Protected Area

A new model of conservation is here with Canada’s first Indigenous Protected Area. Edéhzhíe is the product of a collaboration between Dehcho First Nations and the Government of Canada.

On October 11, 2018, the Dehcho First Nations Grand Chief and the Government of Canada signed the Edéhzhíe Agreement. By signing the Edéhzhíe Agreement, these two parties agreed to establish Edéhzhíe together, and to work together permanently to protect its lands and waters. 

On May 2, 2022, the Edéhzhíe Protected Area received an additional designation as a national wildlife area. The purpose of the Edéhzhíe National Wildlife Area is primarily for Dene land-based cultural activities, and for wildlife and habitat conservation. Check out the video below!