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The report advocates for the creation of the Seal River Watershed Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) in northern Manitoba, highlighting its role in biodiversity, carbon storage, and the preservation of Indigenous cultures. It asserts that Canada and Manitoba cannot meet conservation targets without Indigenous involvement and recommends that the Manitoba government implement interim protections and a feasibility study for the IPA.

The Seal River Watershed in northern Manitoba is a 50,000 km2 area that is 99.97% intact and serves as one of Canada's largest free-flowing drainage basins. The report highlights its critical role in biodiversity, storing 1.7 billion tonnes of carbon and supporting species at risk such as polar bears and barren-ground caribou. Economically, the watershed provides at least CAD 214 million in annual ecosystem goods and services (EGS), including ecotourism and caribou harvesting, while the stored carbon is valued at CAD 314.5 billion. The document advocates for the creation of an Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) led by the Sayisi Dene, Northlands Denesuline, Barren Lands First Nation, and O-Pipon-Na-Piwin Cree Nation to prevent threats from mining, hydroelectricity, and road development. It suggests the Manitoba government implement interim protections, establish a feasibility committee, and provide technical support for Indigenous Guardians programs.

The report evaluates the economic value of the Seal River Watershed, a pristine region in Northern Manitoba. It finds that the watershed provides at least CAD 214 million in annual ecosystem goods and services. The document argues that protecting such intact regions is critical for global biodiversity and climate goals, highlighting efforts to establish the area as an Indigenous Protected Area (IPA) led by the Sayisi Dene First Nation.

The Seal River Watershed is a 50,000 km2 region in Northern Manitoba that is 99.97% intact and free-flowing. The report estimates that the watershed provides at least CAD 214 million in annual EGS, primarily driven by the non-use value of species conservation. Additionally, the carbon stored in its peatlands, wetlands, and forests is valued at CAD 314.5 billion based on the social cost of carbon. The document argues that Indigenous stewardship through an Indigenous Protected Area is the most effective way to preserve these values against risks from mining, all-weather roads, and water diversion.