Feds announce the start of creating a new national marine conservation area in Burgeo

    Friday, 23 June 2023 16:06

    By Tonya Organ

    Miawpukek First Nations Chief Misel Joe says we all have a duty to preserve this province.

    A big day for Burgeo and the southwest coast. Federal Minister of Rural Economic Development, Gudie Hutchings made an announcement in the town this afternoon. She was joined by Indigenous leaders, Parks Canada, provincial and municipal politicians and many others for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding. Minister Hutchings says this agreement will launch a feasibility assessment to establish the South Coast Fjords as a new national marine conservation area. She says the area can become part of Parks Canada. The area is about 9000 square kilometers and is a biodiversity hotspot where rare species like the leatherback turtle, sharks, and whales visit often in search of protection. Miawpukek First Nations Chief Misel Joe says we all have a duty to preserve this province. Qalipu First Nations Chief Brendan Mitchell says one thing they will need to do is fix the roads to Burgeo. A new national marine conservation area in the South Coast Fjords region would contribute to Government’s commitment to protect biodiversity and conserve 25 percent of marine and coastal areas by 2025, and 30 per cent by 2030.

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