Dune Za Keyih Provincial Park and Protected Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dune Za Keyih Provincial Park and Protected Area |
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IUCN Category Ib (Wilderness Area)
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Location | Stikine Region, British Columbia, Canada |
Area | 346,833 ha (1,339.13 sq mi) |
Established | April 5, 2001 |
Governing body | BC Parks |
Dune Za Keyih Provincial Park and Protected Area, also known as the Frog-Gataga Provincial Park, is a very large natural area in British Columbia, Canada. It is a special place where nature is protected. This park is part of an even bigger area called the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area. It helps keep the wild animals and plants safe for the future.
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What is Dune Za Keyih Park?
Dune Za Keyih Provincial Park is a type of protected area. Governments create these parks to save important natural places. They protect the land, water, animals, and plants that live there. This park was officially created on April 5, 2001.
The park is huge, covering 346,833 hectares. To give you an idea, that's bigger than some small countries! It means there's lots of space for wildlife to roam freely.
Where is This Park Located?
Dune Za Keyih Provincial Park is in the northern part of British Columbia. This area is known as the Stikine Region. The park is located near the Gataga River.
It sits between two other important parks. To its west, across the Kechika River, is Denetiah Provincial Park. To its east, you'll find Kwadacha Wilderness Provincial Park. These parks together form a large network of protected lands.
Why is This Park Important?
This park is a key part of the Muskwa-Kechika Management Area. This larger area is very important for wildlife. It's often called the "Serengeti of the North" because of its many large animals.
The park protects habitats for animals like moose, caribou, grizzly bears, and wolves. It also helps keep the rivers and forests healthy. Protecting these areas ensures that these animals have a safe place to live and thrive.
The Name: Frog-Gataga to Dune Za Keyih
When the park was first created in 2001, it was called Frog-Gataga Provincial Park. Later, its name was changed to Dune Za Keyih Provincial Park and Protected Area.
The new name, Dune Za Keyih, comes from the Kaska Dena language. The Kaska Dena are an Indigenous group who have lived in this region for thousands of years. Their language is an important part of their culture. The name Dune Za Keyih is a Kaska Dena translation of Frog-Gataga. This change honors the history and culture of the Kaska Dena people in the area.