B.C. is establishing a massive new coastal marine reserve in collaboration with six First Nations.
The new 6,700-square-kilometre reserve will be called Mia-yaltwa Ha’lidzogm hoon, meaning “Realm of the salmon, home of the salmon.”
It is being established with the consent of the Gitga’at, Gitxaała, Heiltsuk, Kitasoo Xai’xais, Nuxalk and Wuikinuxv Nations, along with the federal and provincial governments.
“It will help safeguard marine ecosystems that people depend on, while supporting sustainable activities for generations to come,” said Randene Neill, Water, Land and Resource Stewardship minister.
Commercial and recreational fishing will be allowed to continue within the reserve, but with zoning restrictions.
This designation of the area, part of the Great Bear Sea, as a national marine conservation area reserve counts toward B.C.’s goal of preserving 30 per cent of marine areas by 2030.
The establishment of the reserve includes funding for Indigenous-led stewardship and Guardian programs.