Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park (Canada and USA )

It considered, in particular, the potential external threats to the property, including from mining and energy developments in the Canadian Flathead and Elk watersheds, and within the broader Crown of the Continent ecosystem, as well as the effects of climate change. [...] Other important partnerships are: the Flathead Basin Commission with stewardship over water and resources in the Flathead watershed; the Waterton Biosphere Reserve focused on ranchlands east of Waterton Lakes NP; the Flathead National Forest west of the property, part of which is in the Flathead basin; the Flathead Reservation of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, west of Glacier NP; and [...] Retention of the large expanse of natural landscape in the Crown of the Continent ecosystem is of vital importance for avoiding habitat fragmentation and providing the ecosystem connectivity essential for the growth and survival of native plants and animals in the region. [...] The Park was designated in order to “permanently commemorate the relationship of peace and goodwill between the peoples and governments of Canada and the US.” The present circumstances provide an ideal opportunity to give prominence to the values and aspirations underpinning this initiative. [...] Having considered the State of Conservation Report for the property the Committee’s decision noted with concern the potential threat to the Outstanding Universal Value of the property from potential mining and energy development within the Flathead valley and, in particular, to the continued quantity and quality of water supplies and ecosystem connectivity between the property and important habita