Please note: The Ministik Conservation Land is adjacent to but managed separately from the public Ministik Game Bird Sanctuary. If you are looking for information about the Ministik Game Bird Sanctuary or hunting, please contact Sherwood Park or Camrose Fish and Wildlife. Please note that hunting is not permitted on EALT’s Ministik Conservation Land.

Wildlife and Habitat

Ministik includes a matrix of wetlands, modified grasslands, and deciduous forest. It provides important habitat for both prey and predator species.

Waterfowl, moose, deer, and small mammals have all been observed on the property along with raptors, wolves, coyotes and horned grebes – a species of special concern.

Do you plan on trying to identify plants and animals while exploring? Consider helping EALT with some Citizen Science. There are lots of easy ways to share your finds with our conservation team and your input is greatly valued!

Importance

Ministik is located in a designated Important Bird Area, and borders the Ministik Bird Sanctuary. By securing this site, we essentially expanded the area protected by the Sanctuary.

There are many wetlands at this natural area, which are important for filtering water and maintaining our water supply. Ministik is located in the Beaver Hills UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and provides important habitat for wildlife.

Indigenous Connections

Ministik ᒥᓂᐢᑎᐠ means island in Nehiyawewin (Cree). This name is most likely in reference to the many small islands within Ministik Lake. Ministik, Hicks, Golden Ranches, and the Smith Blackburn Homestead are all a part of the Beaver Hills region which was very important for resting when travelling between the hills and the plains in the spring and the fall. Historically, the Beaver Hills region was important for the Tsuut’ina, Nehiyawak (Cree), Anishnaabe (Ojibway/Saulteaux), the Nakota Sioux, and the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot). The hills are called Amiskwaciy by the Nehiyawak, Chaba hei by the Nakota and Kaghghik-stak-etomo by the Niitsitapi, referring to the abundance of beavers. The region’s dense forests, open plains, and lakes offered many resources for different Nations to rest and replenish their stores through hunting, gathering and fishing.

Stewardship Highlights and Recent News

Ministik Conservation Land is not accessible by vehicle. The natural area can be accessed along the north boundary, by hiking through the Ministik Bird Sanctuary. The border of the Ministik Bird Sanctuary can be found on Open Street Map. We do not recommend trying to access the property if you are not familiar with the local area.

Please be respectful of the neighbouring private lands and do not trespass - only travel through the Ministik Game Bird Sanctuary.