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Environment

Environment


2017

Yukon and B.C. sign water management agreement
April 5, 2017 – Yukon and BC work together to manage shared water in the Liard River Basin.


2016

Pan-Canadian framework on climate change meets Yukon’s unique needs
December 9, 2016 – Government of Yukon signs on to the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. Framework recognizes Yukon’s unique northern circumstance.

Yukon premier to join prime minister, premiers in Ottawa to discuss climate change
December 6, 2016 – Premier Sandy Silver will meet with his counterparts in Ottawa this week.

Yukon government maintains firm stance against carbon tax
October 3, 2016 – A statement from Yukon's premier on the imposition of a carbon tax.

Minister standing up for Yukon values at Montreal meeting
September 30, 2016 – Minister will ensure that national climate change policies recognize Yukon's unique circumstances.

A statement from Minister of Environment Wade Istchenko
September 29, 2016 – Minister Istchenko extends condolences to Shane Glada-Dick's family and Ross River.

Government of Yukon partners with Humane Society Yukon for community dog care
September 26, 2016 – Up to $30,000 is budgeted for Humane Society Yukon's partnership in providing community dog care.

Yukon selects youth ambassador for Morocco climate change conference
August 23, 2016 – Annina Altherr will join the Government of Yukon at the COP22 conference in Marrakesh, Morocco.

First two years of Yukon water strategy show great progress
July 27, 2016 – The Yukon water strategy and action plan is now two years old. Learn more about the progress it has inspired.

New programs to support Yukon communities through dog care
July 15, 2016 – Department of Environment has developed two new programs to help communities address their needs and issues with local dogs.

Whitehorse air quality information now available online
June 8, 2016 – The Air Quality Health Index now provides information on the Whitehorse region's air quality.

Yukon signs agreement to control invasive species in western Canada
June 6, 2016 – The new agreement aims to identify and control invasive species.

New Conrad Campground opens tomorrow
May 19, 2016 – The 35-site campground helps meet the growing demand for recreational opportunities near Whitehorse.

Government of Yukon supports recycling with amended regulations
May 12, 2016 – Changes to Yukon’s recycling regulations, announced today, will increase waste diversion across the territory.

Yukon government supports signing of Paris Agreement on Earth Day
April 22, 2016 – A global response can help lessen the impacts of climate change in Canada’s north.

Electric car joins Yukon government fleet vehicles
April 12, 2016 – The Yukon government is piloting an electric car to test viability and practicality of use in Yukon.

Rideshare program now available for Whitehorse residents and visitors
April 12, 2016 – The transportation sector accounts for more than half of total greenhouse gas emissions in Yukon.

Funding announced for Yukon government contaminated sites cleanup
April 8, 2016 – The Government of Yukon will invest up to $3.9 million in 2016/17 for remediation work.

Yukon government expands water monitoring network
April 6, 2016 – More than $1.5 million will be invested in Yukon’s water monitoring network in 2016/17.

Yukon government and First Nations work to assist Alsek moose recovery
April 5, 2016 – The Yukon government will continue to work with its partners to recover moose populations.

Yukon government to expand campgrounds and improve facilities
April 4, 2016 – Up to $350,000 will be provided to improve access to Yukon campgrounds.

Yukon government to expand access to eServices
March 31, 2016 – The Government of Yukon plans to initiate work to make electronic hunting licences and seals available online.

New special guiding lottery creates more opportunity and increases fairness for Yukon hunters
March 15, 2016 – The Yukon government will offer 125 special guiding licences through a lottery process starting with the 2016/17 season.

Government of Yukon signs funding agreement with Humane Society Yukon
March 9, 2016 – The Government of Yukon has signed a funding agreement to help prevent the spread of disease among Yukon pets.

Minister to join federal, provincial and territorial colleagues at climate change meeting
January 27, 2016 – Ministers will work toward a framework agreement on climate change.

Yukon’s mineral potential showcased at mining industry meeting
January 21, 2016 – Exploration and investment in Yukon’s mineral resources to be highlighted in Vancouver.


2015

Government reports progress on climate change
December 2, 2015 – Report includes updates on the made-in-Yukon plan.

Government invests in renewed and expanded campground system
November 23, 2015 – New "in-fill" sites in campgrounds close to Whitehorse will mean more camping opportunities for area residents.

New study to monitor Whitehorse air quality
November 10, 2015 – Government of Yukon is partnering with City of Whitehorse to study Whitehorse air quality.

Premier to lead Yukon delegation to UN climate change conference
October 22, 2015 – The delegation will represent Yukon interests at COP21 in Paris.

Ministers promoting Yukon’s mineral sector potential
September 30, 2015 – Ministers will provide updates on government efforts underway to enhance the investment climate in Yukon.

New Veterinary Services Program to help farmers
September 15, 2015 – A new pilot program to improve access to veterinary care will benefit Yukon livestock owners who raise animals for food.

Public review of updated elk management plan to begin
September 14, 2015 – The Department of Environment and the Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board are seeking comments on a draft management plan.

Hunter Education and Ethics Development training now available online
September 1, 2015 – Free online course reflects the ethics and nuances of the Yukon hunting experience.

Minister visits new Conrad campground
August 25, 2015 – The latest addition to the Yukon government campground network is scheduled to open next spring.

Youth ambassador to Paris climate change conference announced
August 18, 2015 – A youth ambassador will once again join the Yukon government delegation at the annual climate change negotiations.

Yukon government announces winner of 2015 Environmental Stewardship Award
June 17, 2015 – Minister of Environment Wade Istchenko presented the 2015 Environmental Stewardship Award to this year’s recipient.

Regulation changes will help moose and caribou populations recover
May 21, 2015 – Updated hunting rules will help manage Faro-area moose, Itsi mountain goat and Fortymile caribou populations.

Ministers to attend 2015 Dawson City Gold Show
May 14, 2015 – The 29th Dawson City International Gold Show kicks off on May 15.

eServices now available for anglers and campers
May 12, 2015 – Yukoners can now purchase angling licences and resident annual campground permits online.

Yukon government accepts Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board’s recommendation on roadside bear hunting
May 8, 2015 – The roadside hunting of grizzly bears will continue while a management plan is developed.

First circumpolar adaptation portal launched
April 27, 2015 – Circumpolar climate change information contained in new online portal.

Consultation continues for off-road vehicle regulation on public land
April 16, 2015 – Yukon government is working with First Nations and the public to develop a made-in-Yukon policy.

Funding announced for fish and wildlife research and monitoring projects
March 23, 2015 – Yukon government has announced plans to fund more than 30 fish and wildlife projects in 2015/16.

Yukon government announces improved access to camping opportunities
March 19, 2015 – Yukon government invests more than $500,000 on a new campground and an extended camping season.

Funding announced for contaminated sites cleanup
March 18, 2015 – Nine contaminated sites will be remediated to minimize risks to human health and the environment.

Departments of Environment and Community Services transfer programs
March 17, 2015 – Animal protection activities will be part of the Animal Health Program, allowing for shared expertise.

Yukon government to improve water information sharing and training opportunities
March 16, 2015 – Government of Yukon to invest more than $1 million to understanding and managing groundwater, improving access to safe drinking water and planning for water needs now and in the future.

Roadside bear hunting recommendations released
March 2, 2015 – Recommendations concerning roadside bear hunting are now public, in advance of a formal response from the Yukon government.

Yukon outfitters well represented at Safari Club International
February 18, 2015 – Environment Minister Wade Istchenko joined Yukon outfitters at the Safari Club International Convention.

Premier and ministers showcase Yukon’s mining industry at Roundup
January 23, 2015 – Premier and ministers showcase Yukon’s commitment to mining industry.

New Department of Environment building officially opened in Watson Lake
January 14, 2015 – Hunters, anglers and campers will enjoy the improved client service area in the new Watson Lake District Office.


2014

Government approves new bison hunting opportunities
December 18, 2014 – Yukon bison hunters will have more opportunity to harvest during mid-winter starting January 1, 2015

Government names youth ambassador to climate change conference
September 17, 2014 – The Yukon delegation to this year's UN climate change conference will include a "youth ambassador".

Public review to be launched into proposed changes to recycling regime
September 17, 2014 – The Yukon government seeks public comment on its plans to modernize recycling regulations.

Contract awarded for Old Crow environmental assessment work
September 11, 2014 – Environmental work to clean up contaminated sites in Old Crow to begin this fall.

Yukon government commends Yukon River chinook managers
August 26, 2014 – Strong commitment on both sides of the border will help us have a sustainable Yukon River chinook fishery again one day.

Orphaned Yukon bear cubs to move to the Calgary Zoo
August 22, 2014 – Two Yukon bear cubs will help educate Calgary Zoo visitors about the consequences of unsecured garbage and attractants.

Permit regime under Environment Act updated
August 20, 2014 – There was widespread public support for the government's proposed changes to the permit regime under the Environment Act.

Government expands camping and visitor services for tourism shoulder seasons
August 14, 2014 – Spring and fall visitors to Yukon will be able to access camping and visitor information services to enhance their visit.

A statement by Minister of Environment Currie Dixon on Ross River Dena Council’s Statement of Claim
August 5, 2014 – A ministerial statement regarding the Statement of Claim filed by the Ross River Dena Council on July 31 with Yukon Supreme Court.

New government strategy promotes water for nature and for people
June 11, 2014 – The Yukon Water Strategy and Action Plan provides YG with a comprehensive approach to making water management decisions.

Government invests in climate change adaptation research
May 14, 2014 – The Yukon government is significantly expanding its role in climate change research with six new projects.

Updated Environment Act will help protect human and environmental health
May 9, 2014 – An updated Environment Act is coming into effect. It provides for a modern framework to help protect the environment.

Aquatic invasive species awareness campaign launched
April 8, 2014 – Anglers and boaters can help stop the spread and introduction of aquatic invaders.

Swan Haven celebrates 20 years
April 4, 2014 – Swan Haven Interpretive Centre updated with new and interactive displays to mark its 20th anniversary.

Yukon government putting modern environmental protection measures in place
March 31, 2014 – An updated Environment Act ushers in a modern legal framework to help protect human health and the environment in Yukon.

Planning begins for new government campground at Conrad
March 18, 2014 – A new government campground near Carcross will help meet the growing demand for recreational opportunities.

Canada Water Week launches March 17
March 14, 2014 – Celebrate Canada Water Week at fun and educational events in the Whitehorse area.

Clean up planned for contaminated sites in Old Crow
March 6, 2014 – Plans in development to clean up contaminated sites in Yukon.

Local renewable energy to supplement electrical generation in Yukon
February 25, 2014 – People with surplus renewable energy can be compensated for feeding power to the grid.

Yukon government to proceed with Atlin Lake campground
January 22, 2014 – New campground adds to recreation opportunities in the Southern Lakes region.

Government of Yukon approves land use plan for public lands in Peel Watershed region
January 21, 2014 – The plan balances environmental protection and economic opportunity.

Regulation changes will reduce elk seal fees
January 20, 2014 – 12 of the 13 regulation changes take effect April 1, 2014.


2013

Management plan completed for Yukon amphibians
December 31, 2013 – Yukon's frogs and toads are important for both environmental and cultural reasons.

New Animal Health Act will help protect animal and human health
December 30, 2013 – Effective January 1, the act applies to live animals, carcasses and animal products.

Nominations invited for 2014 Excellence in Water Stewardship Award
November 26, 2013 – Recognizing outstanding achievement, innovative practice and leadership in water stewardship in Yukon.

Yukon government putting modern animal health measures in place
November 6, 2013 – New act reflects public input and supports existing farming practices.

New water monitoring stations enhance baseline data collection in North Yukon
October 10, 2013 – The Yukon government is making good on its commitment to better understand Yukon's surface and groundwater regimes.

Humane trapping rules put in place for lynx, ermine and otter
September 20, 2013 – Licensed trappers have until fall 2015 to make sure traps meet international humane standards.

Public review of Environment Act updates launched
August 1, 2013 – The Government of Yukon is seeking public comment on proposed changes to the Environment Act.

Youth to join Yukon delegation at international climate change event
July 23, 2013 – Having a youth ambassador be part of the Yukon government delegation to the UN Climate Change Conference this fall helps promote greater youth involvement in climate change actions and decisions.

Rescue and rehabilitation part of environmental stewardship
July 11, 2013 – This week’s timely rescue of two eaglets is a reminder of the role we each can play in maintaining the health and diversity of Yukon’s wilderness.

Natural gas generators will save Yukoners money and reduce environmental impact
July 2, 2013 – The Yukon government has approved financial measures that will allow for the replacement of the aging diesel generators at the Whitehorse hydroelectric facility.

Yukon government plans to modernize permit regime under Environment Act
June 27, 2013 – Proposed changes to the permitting regime will make it easier to comply with regulations under the Environment Act that deal with solid waste, air emissions and more.

Government provides multi-year funding for the Yukon Wildlife Preserve
June 24, 2013 – A new five-year-long funding agreement with the Yukon Wildlife Preserve Operating Society will allow the preserve to focus its energies on providing a safe, secure and healthy natural environment for its wildlife collection.

New rules in place to reduce risk of Chronic Wasting Disease in Yukon
May 2, 2013 – New rules will minimize the risk of Chronic Wasting Disease entering the territory and align with those already in place in Alaska, BC, and Alberta.

Public review of proposed changes to Animal Health Act launched
March 26, 2013 – A public review of the Animal Health Act will help the government respond more effectively to health threats involving wild and domestic animals

Government releases Draft Yukon Water Strategy for Public Review
March 20, 2013 – A public review will help ensure the final Yukon Water Strategy provides thoughtful and innovative guidance that responds to the values and concerns of Yukoners.

Yukon government to enhance prevention of wildlife-human conflict
March 20, 2013 – Enhanced and innovative measures will be put in place this year to help reduce wildlife-human conflicts, especially those involving bears.

Yukon to celebrate Canada Water Week March 18 to 24
March 18, 2013 – Celebrate water and its role in your life through 30+ activities during Canada Water Week.

New territorial campground planned for Atlin Lake
March 14, 2013 – A new territorial campground on Atlin Lake will meet the growing demand in the Southern Lakes region for quality camping and recreation opportunities.

Tombstone Territorial Park Management Plan review launched
February 27, 2013 – A public review of how Tombstone Territorial Park is managed will inform future decisions about the park's activities.

Nominations now open for new excellence in water stewardship award
January 8, 2013 – Chance to honour Yukon leaders in water stewardship.


2012

Yukon/Canada partnership allows winter access to Kluane National Park and Reserve and Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site
December 21, 2012 – Cooperative arrangement allows for winter recreation and tourism opportunities.

Government reports progress on its climate change commitments
October 10, 2012 – Seventeen of the 33 priority actions called for in the Yukon Government Climate Change Action Plan have been completed, with the remainder either ongoing or under development.

Yukon government campgrounds open for Thanksgiving weekend
September 26, 2012 – Outdoor opportunities extended as majority of Yukon government campgrounds to be opened through the Thanksgiving weekend.

New management plan for the Aishihik Wood Bison Herd
September 4, 2012 – A new management plan for the Aishihik Wood Bison Herd reflects the interests of community members, hunters and wildlife while ensuring the herd’s long-term viability.

Yukon government improves inspection of quartz mining operations
August 17, 2012 – Government moves to increase clarity and consistency of inspections at quartz mining operations.

Yukon government providing support to people affected by Upper Liard flooding
June 22, 2012 – Officials with various agencies of Yukon government met with 23 residents of Upper Liard on Friday to outline flood relief plans and begin the process of moving forward.

A new plan for wolf conservation and management in Yukon
May 10, 2012 – The role of wolves in the ecosystem will be respected when the updated Wolf Conservation and Management Plan is implemented by the Yukon governement.

Yukon to celebrate Canada Water Week 2012
March 15, 2012 – Yukon is part of the coast to coast to coast effort to help Canadians be better stewards of our valuable freshwater resources.

Regulation changes will help protect sheep and caribou populations
January 23, 2012 – Amendments to the Wildlife Regulations will help conserve Kusawa area Dall sheep, Chisana caribou and Bonnet Plume caribou populations.


2011

Deadline for public comment extended to September 30
September 1, 2011 – The public has an additional 30 days–until September 30– to comment on the draft Recommended Wolf Conservation and Management Plan.  

Stewart River moose calving grounds protected
September 1, 2011 – Important calving areas along the Stewart River will be protected to help maintain the region's high density of moose.

Fish and wildlife report highlights ‘learning by doing’
August 17, 2011 – A new report shows the diverse range of fish and wildlife research undertaken by the Yukon government and its partners.

Yukon government updates harvest rules
July 11, 2011 – Porcupine caribou harvest rules updated

WILD Education partnership renewed
June 1, 2011 – The Yukon government and Canadian Wildlife Federation have renewed their partnership to foster environmental awareness through innovative, hands-on learning by youth.

Alaskan census finds Porcupine caribou herd numbers are up
January 20, 2011 – While the fall census has found more than 123,000 animals in the iconic Porcupine caribou herd, the government encourages all hunters to continue to hunt conservatively and report their harvest.


2010

Delegation to attend UN climate change conference
November 25, 2010 – As part of its ongoing response to climate change in the territory, the Yukon government is joining a Canadian delegation at COP16.

Joint review of Wolf Conservation Management Plan begins
November 22, 2010 – The Yukon Fish and Wildlife Management Board and Environment Yukon will be reviewing the Wolf Conservation and Management Plan to find out what changes, if any, are needed to ensure the long term survival of wolf populations in Yukon.

Governments sign management plan for new protected area
October 29, 2010 – The management plan for Yukon's newest habitat protection area calls for more use of traditional knowledge for land use policies for the Tsâwnjik Chu (Nordenskiold) wetland complex.

Ts’alwnjik chu (Nordenskiold) wetlands protected
August 3, 2010 – The Yukon government has created a new Habitat Protection Area that recognizes the unique values of the wetlands along the Nordenskiold River near Carmacks, the "bread basket" of the Little Salmon/Carmacks First Nation.

Government announces bison management approach for 2010-11
June 21, 2010 – This year's bison hunt will feature an extended season area and a six-week-long winter break to give wildlife a break from noise and disturbance during the coldest time of the year.

Permit hunt application forms available for 2010-11 season
May 25, 2010 – Applications are now available for the annual permit hunt lottery for moose, caribou, sheep, goat, deer or elk.

Recycling Club celebrates 15 years
May 12, 2010 – Club members know it pays to recycle thanks to the great prizes to be won while keeping Yukon communities litter free.

Harvest Management Plan for Porcupine caribou herd signed in Whitehorse
April 29, 2010 – Plan will help stabilize, if not increase, the Porcupine caribou herd population.

Environment Fair to celebrate biodiversity
April 6, 2010 – First-ever Environment Fair features family-friendly, interactive fun on April 17.

Recycling fund invests in community projects
March 3, 2010 – A pickup service in Dawson, facility improvements in Faro, and a waste glass project are just the latest recycling services supported by the Yukon government.


2009