The Péribonka River, the largest tributary of Lac Saint-Jean, is located on the traditional territory of the Pekuakamiulnuatsh First Nation, which has frequented it since time immemorial. Its name, pelipaukau, means “river channelling into the sand, where the sand moves,” which speaks to its rocky escarpments, immense cliffs and ancient forests, reminiscent of the majestic scenery of a fjord. One can even find yellow birch tree specimens, of which the largest documented in eastern North America is estimated to be over 350 years old.

This magnificent territory features a rich biodiversity, but it also has endangered species such as the woodland caribou, and iconic but threatened species such as the bald eagle. Beyond making nature and adventure lovers happy, a recreational tourism project centred on the nautical course of the river could bring a new economic dynamic to the region.

Given the forestry industry’s pressure and the widespread threats of devastating logging, CPAWS Quebec and several environmental and regional stakeholders, such as the Comité de Sauvegarde la Rivière Péribonka (CSRP), are working to create a protected area that will safeguard the visual aspect of the river corridor.

In September 2021, following a major mobilization of environmental groups and citizens, the Quebec government announced the cancellation of logging operations.