The Latest Grizzly Adventure For WildArk

In another step forward for conservation, A Conscious Collection friend and charity partner WildArk have announced their latest project ‘Grizzly Plains’. Partnering with the Igiugig community on Lake Iliamna in Alaska for Phase 1, the project will secure a crucial piece of land on the shore of the Kvichak River, one of the most important rivers that’s part of the largest natural Salmon fishery in the world knowns as the greater Bristol Bay Salmon fishery.

Led by the people of Igiugig the project looks to positively increasing conservation, cultural, education and ecotourism initiatives across their homeland to help preserve the region and the species that share the land like the Grizzly Bears.

“Grizzly Plains marks another milestone for conservation in the Bristol Bay area, that should be one place in the world left untouched! We’re very excited to join forces with Igiugig and other partners to make this model a long-term, sustainable conservation and cultural preservation. WildArk is committed to being part of the wider conservation community in Bristol Bay, Alaska.” John Hardman , WildArk CEO

The Lake Iliamna region, the fishery and its people are currently at threat from a 3,000ft deep, 2-mile wide open pit Copper Mine that plans to excavate billions of tonnes of ore with potential to destroy the delicate watershed ecosystem and with it the Salmon fishery that so many rely on.

“There is no place in the world like Igiugig, where the water is so pure we drink it straight from the Kvichak River… For the past decade, we have been seeking the right partners to pursue conservation that is community driven yet protects for the greatest biodiversity. Today, we are one step closer to achieving this monumental goal and we are honored to work with WildArk.” AlexAnna Salmon, Village Council President for Igiugig

This highlights why the ‘Grizzly Plains’ project is so important, combined with the many other conservation initiatives out in this region there is hope for a long-term, sustainable future for the Igiuigig people and their coexisting way of life with the wildlife that has been successful for 8,000 of years.

“The Grizzly Plains initiative is an amazing opportunity to forge deep, long-lasting partnerships with the Igiugig Community, local NGO’s and business operators,” Mark Hutchinson, WildArk founder