About CPAWS Newfoundland & Labrador
Our Mission and Vision
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) is a national non‑profit conservation group working to protect Canada’s wild ecosystems in parks, wilderness, and natural areas, preserving the full diversity of habitats and their species.
Founded in 1963, CPAWS has a national office in Ottawa, thirteen regional chapters, and over 20,000 members nationwide. Over more than 50 years, CPAWS has helped protect more than half a million square kilometres of Canada’s treasured wild places. Our vision is to safeguard at least half of Canada’s public land and water so future generations can experience Canada’s irreplaceable wilderness.
As the official Newfoundland & Labrador chapter (CPAWS‑NL), our mission focuses on promoting the systematic establishment of new terrestrial and marine protected areas in Newfoundland & Labrador, and fostering the effective management of those already protected.
Who We Are
The Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter of CPAWS (CPAWS-NL) was founded in 2003, with a goal of promoting the systematic establishment of new terrestrial and marine protected areas and to foster effective management of existing protected areas in Newfoundland and Labrador. For the benefit of present and future generations, CPAWS-NL envisions the establishment of a representative system of terrestrial and marine protected areas, which incorporates the ecological, social and economic values of local communities and recognizes the importance of protected areas as an essential part of natural resource management and planning.
History & Impact
CPAWS‑NL began its work in 2003 with a mandate to support both the creation of new protected areas and the responsible stewardship of existing ones within Newfoundland and Labrador. Over the years we have played key roles in advancing proposals such as the South Coast Fjords National Marine Conservation Area and the Eagle River Watershed protected area. At present, less than seven percent of Newfoundland and Labrador’s terrestrial landmass is formally protected and this rate is among the lowest in the country.
Advancement of Marine Protection
We helped move the South Coast Fjords area closer to becoming a National Marine Conservation Area by triggering a feasibility study in 2022.
Identification and Prioritization of Key Coastal Areas
We mapped over 140 important coastal areas such as bird colonies and fish spawning zones to guide future conservation planning.
Influencing Government Commitments and Policy
Our advocacy helped secure government support in 2022 for protection of sites like the Eagle River Watershed.
Strengthening Public Engagement and Support for Conservation
In 2022 CPAWS NL volunteers helped rescue and release 91 puffin chicks and 848 petrels during our summer patrol season.
We need your help to protect the nature and wildlife of Newfoundland and Labrador !
Protecting Newfoundland and Labrador’s environment is ongoing work that depends on public support. Whether you sign petitions for conservation campaigns, make a donation, or give your time as a volunteer, every contribution brings nature forward.