Canadian Wildlife Federation is a 3-star rated charity that is financially transparent. The charity has an average results reporting score of B. Its overhead spending is 32%, which is within Ci’s reasonable range. For every dollar donated, 68 cents go to the cause. It has reserve funds to cover one year and three months of annual program costs. 

Founded in 1962, Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) works to conserve Canadian nature and habitats for the use and enjoyment of all. It aims to inspire Canadians to connect with wildlife, maintain healthy wildlife populations, and conserve and restore natural habitats. While its head office is based in Ottawa, it directs several provincial wildlife groups. These include the Manitoba Wildlife Federation, Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters, and Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters. 

CWF operates five different programs. It does not provide a program spending breakdown. 

Its Endangered Species program protects animals experiencing drastic population declines, including bats, bees, and American eels. CWF claims that American eel populations have dropped by 99% due to overfishing and water turbines. It trained 594 individuals in habitat restoration and 165 individuals in habitat Community of Practice network. 

Its Oceans and Coasts program improves fish passages for migrating Pacific salmon populations. CWF stated that it completed 557 barrier assessments, 119 habitat confirmations, and connected 10 watersheds in British Columbia in F2023. 

Its Forests and Grasslands program addresses the 90% of species whose habitats overlap with farmland. CWF reported that it restored 720 hectares of habitat for Monarch butterflies and other pollinators. It also reported that 50 observers across Ontario have helped inform research into Monarch migration pathways in F2023.  

Its Lakes and Rivers program protects species such as freshwater turtles who suffer habitat loss and poaching. CWF reports that one-third of Canada’s 200 freshwater fish species are at risk. In F2023, CWF reported it assessed 2,443 shoreline properties for wildlife-friendly practices. 

Its Education programs encourage Canadians to connect with nature and learn about wildlife. CWF reports that only 7% of youth spend the recommended amount of time outdoors. In F2023, it distributed 5,600 pollinator-friendly plants and engaged 1,458 educators. 762 participants are currently enrolled in WILD Outside, a youth program for conservation. 

Canadian Wildlife Federation received $17.8m in Canadian donations in F2023. It also received $14.4m in government funding (42% of total revenue) and $1.1m in donated airtime to run public service announcements. Administrative costs are 6% of revenues (less investment income) and fundraising costs are 26% of cash donations. This results in total overhead spending of 32%. For every dollar donated to the charity, 68 cents go to the cause. This is within Ci’s reasonable range for overhead spending. In F2023, CWF had $29.1m in net funding reserves, enough to cover one year and three months of annual program costs. 

Ci consolidated the statements of the Federation and its associated foundation for this financial review. As such, Ci omitted related party transfer from the Foundation to the Federation ($10k) from total revenue and expenses. 

This update has been sent to Canadian Wildlife Federation for review. Changes and edits may be forthcoming. Updated on May 30, 2024 by Stellar Zhang.