Wycliffe Conservation Complex

The Wycliffe Conservation Complex (WCC) is a 940-acre conservation property managed in a partnership between the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the Nature Trust of BC, and the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development. Located between Kimberley and Cranbrook, the WCC is predominantly grassland and contains essential forests, wetlands, and riparian habitat dispersed throughout the land. Overgrazing by cattle, the introduction of exotic species, and rural development have contributed to the grasslands’ declining health. The WCC is an essential travel corridor and wintering habitat for various wildlife species and home to several critical wildlife species such as the American badger, Lewis’ woodpecker, long-billed curlew and bobolink.

In 2020, KES conducted grassland health assessments on the WCC utilizing the FLNRORD Function Health Checklists, developed a range use plan for NCC’s Pine Butte Ranch, and provided an update for the Luke Creek Corridor Range Use Plan. To determine available Animal Unit Months on the Pine Butte Ranch, the KES team collected forage information. The team successfully collected information on invasive species present, rare plant occurrences, and wildlife features. In using this, KES was able to review and advise on grassland enhancement prescriptions and ecological restoration prescriptions. The reporting helped to inform future management and planning for the partners of the Wycliffe Conservation Complex.