The UNESCO World Heritage Commission has launched a mission to investigate concerns over energy and mining development proposals. Mountaintop removal of coal would dump waste material into the valley below and allow heavy metals to enter the Flathead River and the Peace Park downstream. A joint US – Canada State of Conservation Report about these threats will be available by February 2010, and reviewed by the WHS Commission in summer 2010.

The area is one of the most important grizzly bear and carnivore habitats in the Rocky Mountains. The International League of Conservation Photographers (ILCP) is supporting protection efforts through a project to capture images of the region's beauty and conservation issues. Garth Lenz is coordinating the mission, called a RAVE (Rapid Assessment Visual Expedition).