Our Impact

As I reflect on this past year, one truth stands out: The story we tell about nature is changing — and so is the future we’re building together.

For decades, the dominant narrative claimed that conserving nature and economic growth were opposing forces. That prosperity demanded trade-offs. But that story is unraveling. Today, we know that nature is not a liability; it’s a cornerstone of our future — the foundation of healthy communities, resilient economies and sustainable growth.

This new story is taking root across Canada. Amid the swaying grasses and steady hum of tractors in Saskatchewan, farmers are proving that regenerative agriculture isn’t just good for nature; it’s good for the economy. Through Canada’s first Model Farm Network, Nature United is working with farmers across more than 16,000 hectares to test and scale practices that restore soil health, reduce emissions and support livelihoods. Over the next five years, these farms will show how investing in nature can cut costs, increase yields and strengthen food systems — smart economics in action.

Launching the Model Farm Network is one chapter in a much bigger story. This year, we finalized a new Strategic Plan that calls for bold, collaborative action over the next five years — uniting governments, communities and businesses to deliver solutions no one can achieve alone. It also commits us to learning from our progress and evolving our strategies to drive the greatest impact.

Our new plan builds on our solid foundation of partnership and impact, from advancing sustainable forest management in British Columbia to supporting regional stewardship networks in Manitoba to bridging knowledge systems in the Northwest Territories. And this report offers a glimpse into the progress we’re making together, and the momentum we’re building for the future:

• Science shaping policy. Our analysis pinpoints where forest restoration delivers the greatest benefits for people and nature, and our new tool drew more than 300 visits and engagement from 10 institutions.

• Nurturing youth leadership. Through the new Youth On the Land Opportunities (YOLO) Community Network , we supported more than 400 practitioners and 20 programs nationwide, strengthening Indigenous-led stewardship and building pathways for youth into conservation roles.

• Milestones in the Northwest Territories and Manitoba. Two announcements this year signalled collaboration across governments to support Indigenous-led conservation and economic opportunities across millions of hectares.

As we look ahead, one thing is clear: The challenges are complex, but the solutions are within reach — if we act together. Every partnership, every hectare conserved and every policy shaped is building towards a future for nature and people. Thank you for being part of this work.