The federal government, along with two First Nations, have collaboratively announced the establishment of three marine refuges on the North Coast of British Columbia. The Haida Nation, in conjunction with federal Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson, revealed the formal creation of two marine refuge areas near Haida Gwaii islands. Additionally, the Gitxaała Nation, located south of Prince Rupert, has jointly established a third marine refuge with the federal government near Banks Island.
This initiative aims to enhance Indigenous-led marine conservation efforts on the West Coast while promoting reconciliation. The Haida Nation, which has been engaged in local marine planning for nearly twenty years, will co-manage the new refuge areas with the Fisheries Department. These refuges are designed to safeguard the habitat of various species, including salmon, seabirds, herring, harbour seals, and other marine animals.
The marine refuges in Haida Gwaii cover an area of almost 30 square kilometers. The Haida Nation council president, Gaagwiis Jason Alsop, emphasized the importance of protecting the fish species for the community’s food security, ensuring that future generations can continue to benefit from the ocean’s resources. Meanwhile, the 436-square-kilometer refuge near Banks Island, home to corals, kelp forests, and seagrass crucial for rockfish habitats, now prohibits commercial and recreational prawn and crab trap fisheries, in addition to existing closures for rockfish fishing.
Linda Innes, the elected chief councillor of the Gitxaała Nation, expressed satisfaction with the agreement, highlighting the significance of stronger marine territory protection through mutual respect and collaboration between both parties.
