Environmental Groups Sue Ottawa Over Caribou Habitat Delays

Environmental organizations in British Columbia have launched a lawsuit against the federal government for failing to complete critical habitat mapping for southern mountain caribou, a threatened species listed under the Species at Risk Act since 2003.​

Lawsuit Details

Ecojustice, representing Wildsight, Stand.earth, and Wilderness Committee, filed the case in Federal Court on February 9, 2026, accusing Environment and Climate Change Canada of an 11-year delay past the 2014 deadline for full habitat identification. The groups argue this inaction violates SARA requirements, which mandate habitat mapping as the first step for protection and recovery, leaving old-growth forests vulnerable to logging and industrial activity.

Caribou Decline

Southern mountain caribou populations in southern and central BC have plummeted, with 8 of 18 herds now locally extinct due to habitat loss from clearcutting and development. While some herds show recovery signs from measures like maternity pens and predator control, groups warn ongoing delays push the species toward extinction, calling it a "political choice."

Government Response and Stakes

Federal officials note progress through conservation agreements with provinces and First Nations, including expanded protected areas and population growth in select herds, but provided no timeline for completing the maps. A favorable court ruling could compel action not just for caribou but other at-risk species awaiting protection.

Take Action

It can be as simple as sending a pre-written letter to Environment Canada and Minister Dabrusin calling for immediate action!