Ksgaxl/Stephens Island Conservancy

Ksgaxl/Stephens Islands Conservancy is on the northwest coast of British Columbia, approximately 30 kilometres west of Prince Rupert, and is within the Traditional Territory of the Coast Tsimshian. The conservancy contains Stephens Island and other adjacent islands including Prescott Island, Philip Island, Arthur Island, Skiakl Island, the Archibald Islands and the Tree Nob Group.

Ksgaxl/Stephens Islands Conservancy was identified for conservancy status during negotiations between the provincial government and First Nations governments following the North Coast Land and Resource Management Plan (LRMP).

Ksgaxl/Stephens Islands Conservancy protects an entire island group that has high marine and terrestrial values including habitat for numerous bird, marine mammal and marine invertebrate species. Ksgaxl is part of a world-class system of wilderness-oriented protected areas along the north and central coast of British Columbia. The terrestrial and marine ecosystems are healthy and productive.

The Ksgaxl/Stephens Islands area has a long history of use by First Nations. The conservancy is associated with Lax Kw’alaams and Metlakatla First Nations (collectively Coast Tsimshian).

Wilderness-based recreation opportunities in Ksgaxl include camping, kayaking, fishing, scuba diving and wildlife viewing. Recreational features include marine mammal viewing, small beaches, and many small island groups such as the Archibald Islands. The conservancy is collaboratively managed by the Coast Tsimshian and BC Parks.