In the wake of international efforts against biodiversity and climate crises, several proposals for marine protected areas (MPAs) are currently under consideration in the St. Lawrence Estuary and Gulf.
Over the next few years, steps will be taken to inform regional stakeholders and involve them in the implementation of these proposals. However, the establishment of a marine protected area can raise questions, concerns, and even resistance—often due to a lack of information or understanding of these conservation tools.
Compared to their terrestrial counterparts, there are only a few examples of marine protected areas in Quebec:
- the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park;
- the Estuaire-de-la-Rivière-Bonaventure Marine Reserve;
- the proposed Manicouagan Aquatic Reserve;
- the Banc-des-Américains Marine Protected Area.
Marine protected areas and the reasons for their establishment remain little known to many. Yet, they offer many benefits, both for marine biodiversity and for the coastal communities that depend on it.
A toolkit to better understand and take action
To support citizens, local organizations, economic stakeholders, and anyone curious to learn more, we have designed this toolkit to demystify marine protected areas. In it, you will find resources to:
- Understand what a marine protected area is
- Explore their objectives and how they work
- Discover the ecological issues facing the St. Lawrence River
- Understand the benefits for communities and ecosystems
- This toolkit will be updated and expanded over time.
Do you have questions or a project you would like to bring to fruition? Please don't hesitate to contact us.
