Other Effective area-based Conservation Measure (OECM) Identification in Átl'ka7tsem / Howe Sound Biosphere Region

Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs) represent an opportunity to achieve these targets by recognizing biodiversity conservation occurring indirectly through existing land uses rather than explicitly through protected area designation.

This research developed a systematic methodology to identify candidate OECM parcels in Howe Sound Biosphere Region, British Columbia. By integrating ecological variables with governance and zoning data into a weighted suitability model, the study demonstrated a scalable framework for OECM candidate parcel selection. Results highlighted 260 candidate parcels across three regional districts, emphasizing parcels whose governance structures align well with long-term conservation goals.