A family with deep roots in the region is making a mark after partnering with the Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) to protect an ecologically significant stretch of Manitoba grassland. The Langford Escarpment project, located between Gladstone and Neepawa, is now conserved for future generations, thanks to the Harper family and NCC’s efforts.
Spanning 178 hectares, this property has been in the Harper family since the early 1900s, providing a home for several generations. Judith Harper, a representative of the family, shared the idea behind the donation.
“To know the property will be conserved for the benefit of nature seems the most fitting way to honour my family and the land.”
The Langford Escarpment is a critical area for grassland conservation, forming part of the larger Langford Community Pasture. The NCC plans to maintain the land’s historical grazing practices in partnership with local livestock producers, ensuring the grasslands thrive while supporting the species that depend on them.
Josh Dillabough, Natural Area Manager with NCC, highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts in conservation.
“The key to saving grasslands is working together on the land in a way that brings together nature, culture, and the economy. Families like the Harpers, and partners like the Association of Manitoba Community Pastures, are just a few of the people responsible for the existence of grasslands in Manitoba today. We are honoured to be a part of this story and look forward to continuing to move forward for a better tomorrow.”
Dillabough adds these types of donations ensure they can continue to do what they do.
"Knowing that we've lost 80 percent of our grasslands across the prairies already, we've only got about 20 percent left. And at the Nature Conservancy Canada, we're trying to be aggressive and protect that last 20%, or at least help those and the surrounding communities protect those areas."
Beyond the grasslands, the Langford Escarpment is home to diverse natural habitats, including oak savannah, aspen and oak forests, creeks, and wetlands.
This rich landscape provides refuge for a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, black bears, and several bird species. Species at risk, such as the golden-winged warbler, red-headed woodpecker, and eastern wood-pewee, also find critical habitat within this area.
The Harper family’s decision to donate 25% of the property’s value played a key role in making this conservation project a reality. The remaining funds were secured through contributions from the Government of Canada’s Natural Heritage Conservation Program and private donors.
The Nature Conservancy of Canada invites anyone interested in supporting conservation projects like this to reach out via email at manitoba@natureconservancy.ca.