The protection of Edéhzhíe stemmed from the initiative and desire of the Dehcho First Nations to protect a fundamental part of their traditional territory and culture.
Edéhzhíe contains unique terrestrial ecosystems. The Horn Plateau rising 600 metres above surrounding plains holds the source waters for the Willowlake, Horn, and Rabbitskin Rivers.
One of the lakes within Edéhzhíe, Mills Lake, is an important wetland for waterfowl. Edéhzhíe is an important hunting place, as well as a spiritual gathering place, for Dehcho and Tłichô Dene.