Target: The Honourable Julie Aviva Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature, Government of Canada
Goal: Halt industrial disruption and implement emergency recovery measures to prevent the collapse of a migratory caribou herd.
New scientific research has revealed a devastating collapse in the migratory Porcupine caribou herd, with population levels falling by approximately 98% over the past three decades. Mapping of the herd’s movements over nearly 30 years shows a rapidly shrinking range that increasingly overlaps with roads, mines, and industrial infrastructure. Researchers report that caribou strongly avoid such disturbances, abandoning areas they once depended on for migration, feeding, and calving.
Recent monitoring data indicates that the decline has accelerated in just the last few years. Scientists warn that habitat fragmentation, combined with changing weather patterns, increases stress, limits access to food, and heightens vulnerability to disease and parasites. These pressures can push already weakened herds past the point of recovery.
Caribou are a keystone species and their loss signals deeper ecological damage. They also play a critical role in Indigenous food systems, culture, and livelihoods. Continued inaction risks irreversible ecological harm and profound social consequences. Immediate federal leadership is required to protect remaining habitat, restrict disruptive development, and support long-term recovery grounded in science and Indigenous stewardship.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Minister Dabrusin,
We are writing to express urgent concern over the collapse of the Porcupine caribou herd, whose population has declined by approximately 98% over the past three decades. Long-term research shows that expanding roads, mining operations, and related infrastructure are fragmenting habitat and driving the animals away from historic migration and feeding areas.
Scientists have documented that caribou actively avoid industrial disturbances, leading to reduced access to critical habitat and increasing stress on already vulnerable populations. Recent monitoring indicates that this decline is accelerating, raising serious concerns about the herd’s ability to recover without immediate intervention.
We respectfully urge your office to take decisive action by strengthening habitat protections, limiting new industrial activity in critical caribou range, investing in emergency recovery efforts, and working in genuine partnership with Indigenous governments and knowledge holders. Strong federal leadership is essential to prevent irreversible loss and uphold Canada’s responsibility to protect wildlife and ecosystems.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Vojife
