Greenspace Plan & Biodiversity Policy

The Greenspace Plan and the Biodiversity Policy will integrate Indigenous ways of knowing and Western ways of knowing, honouring a Two-Eyed Seeing approach. Indigenous knowledge keepers and scientists will help us bridge Indigenous and non-Indigenous perspectives on living systems and community.

We are partnering with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit governments and organizations to co-develop the Greenspace Plan and the Biodiversity Policy.

Co-development team

• Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs (AMC)
• Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak (MKO)
• Manitoba Métis Federation (MMF)
• Southern Chiefs’ Organization (SCO)
• Treaty One Nation
• Tunngasugit – Inuit Resource Centre
• City of Winnipeg

What is co-development?

Co-development between Indigenous and non-Indigenous governments is used to co-design and co-create laws, policies, and/or plans in areas of common concern. It is not a “consultation”-based approach. It is partnership-based and results in collaborative design of shared policies, goals and interests. 

The co-development process is being facilitated by the Centre for Indigenous Environmental Resources (CIER). This effort will build on the Collaborative Leadership Initiative (CLI). The CLI leverages a proven process that advances action towards true reconciliation to build trust, strengthen relationships, further ongoing efforts, and develop new initiatives.

Shaped by Indigenous knowledge, expertise, and community perspectives

The project will rely on First Nations, Métis, and Inuit knowledge as well as research, and specialized expertise. We will also engage the public and stakeholders to get input into the plan and build on what we've heard.

Indigenous knowledge

The project team will bring together Indigenous practitioners and knowledge carriers to help develop the Greenspace Plan and the Biodiversity Policy. This will help to ensure First Nations, Métis, and Inuit knowledge of land, community, and ecology is included in the plan’s policies and recommendations.

Ecological expertise

The project team has extensive experience in greenspace and urban design, helping cities become more sustainable and climate-resilient. They have specialized knowledge in ecological services and green infrastructure.

Core working group

The core working group is an advisory group with interest and knowledge in environmental stewardship and Indigenous knowledge. During the early research and planning stage, they helped create the preliminary vision, guiding principles, goals, and objectives.

The group will continue working with the project team, offering advice, knowledge, and input into the Greenspace Plan and the Biodiversity Policy.

Building on what we've heard

The Greenspace Plan and the Biodiversity Policy will build on what we have heard through many City projects, including:

• OurWinnipeg 2045
• Complete Communities Direction Strategy 2.0 (CCDS 2.0)
• Winnipeg Parks Strategy
• Urban Forest Strategy
• Winnipeg’s Climate Action Plan

We’re not starting the Greenspace Plan and the Biodiversity Policy from scratch. Over and over, we heard that protecting greenspaces is important. We also heard concerns about climate change and the need to reduce its impact and build resilience.

We want to make sure residents stay informed about the project and understand the importance of biodiversity and climate resiliency for Winnipeg.

We also want to hear your thoughts on greenspaces and natural areas—what matters most to you and why.