Campaigns

Little Bay on the South Coast Newfoundland

June 23 2023

CPAWS-NL Celebrates Signing of Memorandum of Understanding to complete a Feasibility Study for South Coast Fjords NMCA in Newfoundland and Labrador

Caitlyn Simmons Campaigns, Marine Campaigns, News, Ocean Campaigns, Parks Campaigns

CPAWS-NL Celebrates Signing of Feasibility Study for South Coast Fjords NMCA in Newfoundland and Labrador

June 23, 2023 – St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador – The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter (CPAWS-NL) is thrilled to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding to complete a feasibility study for the South Coast Fjords National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA), by the government of Canada and province of Newfoundland and Labrador, along with Miawpukek First Nation, Qalipu First Nation and the town of Burgeo. This significant milestone marks a momentous step towards the protection and preservation of one of the province’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders.

The South Coast fjords, with their rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant marine ecosystems, are unparalleled in their beauty and ecological importance. The signing of this feasibility study demonstrates the government’s commitment to safeguarding these unique coastal treasures for future generations to enjoy.

Executive Director of CPAWS-NL, Tanya Edwards, expressed her joy at this pivotal development, stating, “We are elated that the government of Newfoundland and Labrador has taken this important step towards the creation of the South Coast Fjords NMCA. This region is an ecological gem and a source of immense pride for our province. By initiating this feasibility study, the government has shown its dedication to preserving our natural heritage and supporting sustainable tourism opportunities.”

The South Coast Fjords NMCA has long been a priority for conservation efforts in Newfoundland and Labrador. Its extraordinary biodiversity, including endangered species and sensitive marine habitats, necessitates robust conservation measures to ensure their long-term survival. CPAWS-NL has been working tirelessly alongside various stakeholders, Indigenous communities, and government agencies to advocate for the protection of this ecologically and culturally significant area for over two decades.

Suzanne Dooley, Conservation Director at CPAWS-NL, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts, stating, “The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding to complete a feasibility study is the result of years of collaboration and hard work by numerous individuals and organizations. We are immensely grateful to our partners, including Indigenous communities, environmental organizations, and concerned citizens, for their unwavering support and dedication. Together, we will continue to advocate for the sustainable management and protection of the South Coast fjords, ensuring the preservation of this natural wonder for generations to come.”

CPAWS-NL looks forward to actively participating in the feasibility study and collaborating with governments, Indigenous communities, and stakeholders to develop a comprehensive conservation plan for the South Coast Fjords NMCA. The protection of this area will not only benefit wildlife and their habitats but also provide valuable opportunities for sustainable tourism, education, and research.

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For More Information Contact:

Tanya Edwards, Executve Director, CPAWS Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter
tedwards@cpaws.org
Phone: 709-727-7789

Suzanne Dooley , Conservation Director, CPAWS Newfoundland and Labrador Chapter
sdooley@cpaws.org
Phone: 709-726-5800

June 8 2023

CPAWS NL Special Marine Areas Data Hub: A Comprehensive Source of Data and Information on Newfoundland and Labrador’s Coastal and Marine Ecosystems

Caitlyn Simmons Campaigns, News, Ocean Campaigns

CPAWS NL Special Marine Areas Data Hub: A Comprehensive Source of Data and Information on Newfoundland and Labrador's Coastal and Marine Ecosystems

June 8, 2023 St. John’s, NL – As part of World Oceans Day, we are happy to share our Special Marine Areas Data Hub, an innovative initiative aimed at facilitating open data sharing and information dissemination pertaining to the coastal and marine ecosystems of Newfoundland and Labrador! As an extension of our Special Marine Areas Guide, this database serves to foster collaboration and knowledge exchange, enabling marine spatial planning, conservation efforts, and public education.

At the core of the Special Marine Areas Data Hub lies an Interactive Map, boasting a large array of over 1000 layers, curated for exploration. This user-friendly mapping tool allows users to easily visualize spatial data, toggle layers, and superimpose datasets to identify interactions within the marine environment. In addition, users will be able to access species at risk profiles and search through an expanding database containing a wealth of marine data specific to Newfoundland and Labrador. This extensive collection encompasses contributions from organizations such as Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), and Memorial University (MUN), ensuring a comprehensive and reliable information resource.

“Data is imperative to marine conservation as it offers detailed insight into biodiversity, habitat loss, and climate change impacts, allowing for evidence-based decision making and prioritizing strategies for endangered species and habitats. Making this information easily accessible to the public allows everyone to engage in these processes and drives informed discussions about environmental policy and action, enhancing our collective ability to protect the blue planet,” states Mikaila Bickford, Ocean Conservation Manager CPAWS NL. “Our goal with the Data Hub project was to showcase NL’s incredible ocean biodiversity and create a library of accessible and engaging data, information, and media. By creating a tool that anyone can use to learn, we hope to give citizens the tools to effectively interact with and protect their local coastal and ocean environments.”

We invite those interested to visit the Special Marine Areas Data Hub at datahub.cpawsnl.org. Visitors can gain valuable insights, facilitate evidence-based decision-making, and actively contribute to the preservation and sustainable management of our precious coastal and marine ecosystems.

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CHECK IT OUT HERE

For More Information Contact:

Mikaila Bickford, Ocean Conservation Manager, CPAWS NL

mbickford@cpaws.org

Tanya Edwards, Executve Director, CPAWS NL

tedwards@cpaws.org

Phone: (709) 726-5800

May 25 2023

CPAWS NL welcomes announcement to start consultations for protected areas, as new local polling reveals residents of Newfoundland and Labrador show support for more protected areas!

Caitlyn Simmons Campaigns, News, Terrestrial Campaigns

CPAWS NL welcomes announcement to start consultations for protected areas, as new local polling reveals residents of Newfoundland and Labrador show support for more protected areas!

May 25, 2023 St. John’s, NL – We are delighted to hear the recent announcement from the provincial government, that 10 proposed protected areas will proceed to public consultation.

The proposed Protected Areas plan, A Home for Nature, was finally released during Spring 2020 for public consultation. The plan, which was initially devised several decades ago, is based on science and guidance for over 25 years. “The priority sites identified by WERAC in this recent announcement represent some unspoiled areas or low impacted sites, critical habitat for various species of plants and wildlife, unique features and as well as representation of various eco-regions that may be unique”, stated Tanya Edwards, Executive Director, CPAWS NL. “We have been waiting for an announcement such as this for such a long time and we applaud the provincial government as they take this step forward to help protect biodiversity loss and maintaining these valuable natural areas and unique species.”

A recent poll commissioned by CPAWS Newfoundland and Labrador, in Spring of 2023, within the province, further supports today’s announcement by highlighting what we already know: The majority of Newfoundland and Labrador residents feel the current amount of land in the province being protected is “not enough”.

The poll conducted shows that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians support parks and protected areas with 85% agreeing that these areas contribute to the economy and tourism, and 76% agreeing that a planned system of parks and reserves is the best way to conserve natural areas.

Parks and protected areas are important to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. Over 80% of respondents indicated parks and recreation are important to their quality of life. While almost 90% feel it is important that areas are set aside for the protection of wildlife and their habitat.

“It’s not surprising that residents love the great outdoors and want to keep it as pristine as possible for its health and recreational activities”, states Suzanne Dooley, Conservation Director CPAWS NL, “ We are encouraged that the province and the members of WERAC will be seeking feedback from the public, indigenous groups and organizations, municipalities and stakeholders to determine support and what the protected areas will look like.”

The results of this poll are timely to this recent announcement in Newfoundland and Labrador and further demonstrate that the provincial government and the public are both aware of the same reality. With the climate and biodiversity crisis the planet is currently facing we have to be ambitious in our actions.

CPAWS NL has been long term advocate for new protected areas and we hope that the province will fulfill their commitment to advance these sites plus others in a timely manner with feedback from the public.

POLL HIGHLIGHTS

A majority (55%) of Newfoundland and Labrador residents feel the current amount of land in the province being protected is ‘not enough’. Four percent consider the current amount of land being protected is ‘too much’.
Almost 7 in 10 respondents support Newfoundland and Labrador committing to a target of 30% of its land being set aside for conservation purposes by 2030.
Across the province, residents feel strongly that when choices must be made between the environment and commercial or recreational use, protection of the environment must come first. There is recognition that a resource-based economy must protect the resources for sustained economic growth. 80% of the province agree that determining land uses must be based upon maintaining the quality of the environment for future generations.
There is a great deal of concern for the economic future of the province among respondents, with 89% being at least somewhat concerned, and almost half (46%) being extremely concerned. Closely related to the economic future is concern for the health of marine areas (83%), and the economic future of the marine industry (83%).
A minority of provincial residents (21%) feel the economy should come before protection of wildlife habitat, a view that is rejected by 60% of respondents.
Nine in 10 respondents (89%) agree that protection of wilderness and marine areas is needed. 82% feel action must be taken to prevent loss of biodiversity in marine areas in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Most respondents indicated they are somewhat aware of the biodiversity crisis. Younger respondents are most aware of the biodiversity crisis.
Eighty-four percent of respondents do not know what Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas are.
Parks and protected areas are important to residents of Newfoundland and Labrador. Over 80% of respondents indicated parks and recreation is important to their quality of life. Almost 90% feel it is important that areas are set aside for the protection of wildlife and their habitat.
There is strong support for parks and protected areas, with 85% agreeing that these areas contribute to the economy and tourism, and 76% agreeing that a planned system of parks and reserves is the best way to conserve natural areas.

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READ THE FULL REPORT

For More Information

Suzanne Dooley, Conservation Director, CPAWS NL

sdooley@cpaws.org

Tanya Edwards, Executve Director, CPAWS NL

tedwards@cpaws.org

Phone: (709) 726-5800

January 6 2023

2022 Puffin and Petrel Season Recap

Caitlyn Simmons Uncategorized, Wildlife Campaigns

Puffin Recap

Although the public portion of this summer puffin patrol was suspended, it was still a wonderful year! Thanks to CPAWS NL, ECCC-CWS and Trent University, 91 juvenile puffins were measured and successfully released this fledging season.

While this number may seem lower than other years, it is consistent with what would be expected based on moon phase and mean body mass. “We hope that next year we can resume the public puffin patrol,” states Suzanne Dooley, Conservation Director of CPAWS NL. “The hotline that was implemented was successful and we hope to incorporate it again next season. Thank you to all residents who helped dim lights and reported sightings!”

In addition, Taylor Brown, PhD Candidate with Trent University conducted studies on the impact of lights on puffling fledgings (which was approved by ECCC-CWS) this past season.

“This past August, you may have seen my bright experiment light shining out over the water at Witless Bay’s Lower Pond beach and Ragged Beach some evenings. My experiment ran for 11 nights total, and was a great success! Without getting too deep into the details, it did appear that my bright light attracted pufflings”, explains Taylor Brown. “We made sure to count all the pufflings we saw, as well as document their behaviour in detail, and we made every effort to capture puffins that might have been brought into town by our lights.”

Brown, plans to assess her data further during the winter. “I would like to thank CPAWS NL, the Canadian Wildlife Service, and the Town of Witless Bay for all of their essential support of this project. I look forward to coming back next year and working with these wonderful organizations and the communities again to figure out how we can prevent pufflings from getting stranded in town!”

Petrel Recap

During the fall months, during September to mid-November, Leach’s Storm-Petrel chicks begin their migration seawards. Like pufflings, many juvenile Leach’s Storm-Petrels unfortunately become thrown off-course due to strong winds and light pollution from the coasts.

This past season, with help from The Rock Wildlife, ECCC-CWS, MUN, and many others 848 juvenile petrels were able to be found and safely released to continue their migration!

September 30 2022

Reconciliation and Conservation

Caitlyn Simmons Blog, Blog2, Slider, Uncategorized blog, conservation

Written by Stanley Oliver

Reconciliation has become a topic of interest at many tables, including Protection and Conservation. It is a very powerful word and can arouse a lot of sentiment and sometimes even debate. But what does it really mean in terms of Conservation? Well-reconciliation can mean different things to different people (scientist and Indigenous). As such each group/assembly (associations with First Nations, Inuit and Metis established bodies) may wish to define what reconciliation-conservation-protection means from their perspective.

One of the saddest things and worst impact of Colonialism was the removal of Indigenous people from their-our land and waters-the very places where we continue to find our strength, identity and our inherent right and place in this world. Accordingly, true reconciliation requires a sincere discussion about conservation which includes the past and present. But reconciliation talks must also be rooted in the land and waters. It calls for a respectful relationship, that is also ingrained in the central connection to the land and waters that continues to provide healing to Indigenous people and communities.

Indigenous and local communities are inclined to thrive in terms of conservation for several reasons. Indigenous people and communities have long standing histories with their lands and waters, which have provided Indigenous families nourishment and sustenance in a very direct and intimate way since time immemorial. Indigenous people (especially our elders) have a unique relationship and understand the many uses and the values of hundreds of natural species (trees, fish, birds, insects’ rocks etc.). Some say they see the forest differently than others. This feeling/observation must be recognized, respected, and included in any government led process. There is an Inuit word “Silas” that refers to everything, the sky, the waters, and the land. Everything affects each other, everything is connected a truly holistic approach.

Indigenous leaders are now vociferously encouraging government and policy writers to not only focus on a single management topic but rather look at the function of landscapes-waters and what is important to keep in terms of whole ecosystem connectivity, how different habitats-species may be managed to complement each other?

One-way Indigenous people suggest to government, interest groups and agencies (such as the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency) is the fundamental inclusion of Indigenous Knowledge in balance with Western Science. Indigenous and local knowledge holders continue to be a significant part of protecting the planet’s biodiversity and the overall health of all our ecosystems. I would suggest and insist that governments and scientists need to be allies with Indigenous people and communities by developing/strengthening Indigenous voices-governing bodies, including scientific assessments, recognizing territorial rights and creating collaborations between researchers and indigenous and local communities. One of the most important aspects is that governments really must respect Indigenous knowledge and values.

Officially, Webster’s Dictionary defines the term reconciliation as simply the act of the unification of parties at variance (difference), renewal of friendship after disagreement or animosity. Further to this, Webster explains that reconciliation is “the state of things that are seemingly opposite, different, and inconsistent.

Shortly after being elected as the leader of the Liberal party and defeating Stephen Harper, Prime Minister (PM) Justin Trudeau proclaimed a National Day of Reconciliation. He also pushed his Indigenous rights recognition framework and stirred debate on ending or “decolonizing” the 1876 Indian Act, which gave Ottawa control over most aspects of Indigenous life, from health and education to land development.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission (T&RC) final report (released in 2015) of Canada chaired by Murray Sinclair describes the term reconciliation as “an ongoing process of establishing and maintaining respectful relationships. It adds that “a critical part of this prescribed process involves mending and repairing damaged trust by making well deserved apologies, providing specific ways to include Indigenous people in official processes and following through with tangible actions that demonstrate real inclusion and change.

The T&RC report further goes on to make clear that creating respectful relationships also requires the revitalization of important related Indigenous law and legal traditions/customs. It is crucially vital that all Canadians better understand how traditional Indigenous Knowledge and philosophises helps in resolving possible conflict, repairing harm, and ultimately restoring those broken relationships that can benefit and contribute to economic and environmental stability of possible natural resources development.

Indigenous people of Canada deserve better, “it can no longer be about us, without us” approach (not my quote). Hence, if we as a Canadian society want to really move forward in terms of reconciliation and conservation and it is important enough for all of us, an absolute necessity remains to have those respectful inclusion discussions and work towards and amicable reciprocal relationship.

_________________________________________

Stanley Oliver was born and raised in Labrador. Stan is an Inuit who is an avid hunter, fisher, and outdoorsman. He currently holds the position of Manager with the Labrador Office of Indigenous & Northern Skills Trades. He holds a Diploma from Memorial University as Resource Technician, a Certified Engineering Technician with the NL Association of Engineers and numerous certificates in Indigenous Governance and Administration.

His in-depth knowledge of Labrador and Indigenous rights is often requested on the local, provincial, and national level. He currently sits on the National Indigenous Advisory Committee for the Canadian Environment Assessment Agency and the NL Provincial WERAC.

July 15 2022

Puffin Patrol FAQ

Caitlyn Simmons Campaigns coastal, conservation, marine, Marine Projects, Ocean Protection, parks, protected areas

Puffin Patrol 2024 Frequently Asked Questions

Photo: Chris Whalen

When is Puffin Patrol?
Where is Puffin Patrol?
How do I register?
Where can I find the waiver?
How many people can patrol each night?
The date and/or time I wanted it full, what do I do now?
Is there an age limit?
What do I have to bring?
Every patroller must bring their own:

Flashlight

Fluorescent safety vest

Gloves (Leather or nitrile coated are recommended)

We will provide nets and crates and sanitize them between each use.
Do you provide any transportation? Accommodation?

Learn more about Puffin and Petrel Patrol here!

January 19 2022

cpawsadmin Campaigns, Marine Campaigns, Ocean Campaigns conservation, marine, Marine Projects, Ocean Protection

Be Whale Safe

Background

Newfoundland and Labrador is considered one of the best places for whale watching in the whole world! Around 20 whale species visit our nutrient-rich waters every year to feed along the coast, including the world’s largest population of Humpback Whales. Between May and September, thousands of whales can be found close to shore feeding and frolicking. While watching whales and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat may be an opportunity for people to better appreciate these majestic creatures, it also increases the risk of disturbing or harming them. Did you know that marine mammals are protected by marine mammal regulations under the Fisheries Act? This helps to ensure that these activities can still be enjoyed but with greater protection for marine mammals including Canada’s at-risk species.

To help spread awareness on safe boating practices with marine mammals, CPAWS-NL launched a campaign in 2021 called “Be Whale Safe”. Explore this page to learn all about common and less common marine species as well as species-at-risk that are often seen in our waters, threats that they face and ways that we can all help protect them!

Be sure to download a free copy of our Marine Identification Guidebook to become an expert on marine species in the province!

Newfoundland and Labrador has an abundance of marine mammals. Many whales flock here in large numbers during the summer to feed on the huge amounts of krill, plankton, and other schooling fish. While watching them in the wild is fun, it is important to remember that our presence can disturb, stress, or harm marine wildlife.

Marine mammals including at-risk whales, are protected under Canada’s Marine Mammal Regulations under the Fisheries Act. These rules provide a minimum approach distance of 100 metres for most whales, dolphins, and porpoises among other guidelines to protect against human disturbances. When out on the water, remember to follow these guidelines to avoid fines and ‘Be Whale Safe’:

Don’t Chase and Give Space: Keep a minimum distance of 100 metres from marine mammals and 200 metres away if they are in resting position or with their calf.  

If you unexpectedly see a marine mammal closer than 100 metres, STOP and allow them to pass  

Safely Approach: Do not intercept the path of a whale or approach head on. Instead, stay parallel at a safe distance  

Slow Down: If you see a spout, fin, tail, or a ripple at the water’s surface make sure to reduce speeds and approach with caution to avoid a collision 

Don’t Interact: Never attempt to feed, swim or touch marine mammals as it puts them and yourself at risk of injury or illness  

Be Aware: Check your surroundings frequently and stay alert, especially in areas with known sightings. Avoid sudden or excessive noise when marine mammals are in the area  

For more information on Canada’s marine mammal regulations and how to safely watch marine wildlife, please visit: https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/species-especes/mammals-mammiferes/watching-observation/index-eng.html

As may be expected, marine species, including whales, face many natural and unnatural threats while spending their lives within the oceans. Natural threats can include impacts from predators, competition within their environment, and so on. A focus here will, however, be given to anthropogenic threats whales face, those which are caused by human activities. These threats stem from commercial and recreational uses of the oceans, the human tendency to pollute and disregard the health of the environment, and the excessive human contribution to climate change. This includes impacts of vessel strikes, entanglements, marine debris, and noise pollution, all of which will be covered throughout the Whale Safe Project.

Newfoundland and Labrador is surrounded by ocean waters which are teeming with marine ecosystems and diverse marine life. This includes several species of whales that are impacted by the aforementioned threats. These species and waters are an important part of the culture of Newfoundland residents, emphasizing the importance of spreading understanding about these threats, working towards preventing their exacerbation, and mitigating their impacts to preserve these important parts of our ecosystem and lives.

Vessel Collisions

The use of boats in the ocean waters around Newfoundland is an important part of our culture, economy, and industry. This includes commercial uses, such as our famous cod fishery, and recreational uses, such as private boating and fishing. Both of these pose threats to whales and other marine species through the interactions between these species and boats.

Vessel collisions and strikes are a big threat to marine species. These occur when a boat physically hits a whale or other species while travelling through ocean waters. This issue has become more prominent as the vessel traffic within our oceans has steadily increased, causing more boats and marine species to cross paths. This can cause serious harm to the animal, leaving permanent scarring or disabilities and in some cases causing death. With the high traffic of vessels within Newfoundland waters, including fishing vessels that go out on a daily basis, it is important that individuals understand how to avoid whales and other marine species and prevent harming them.

Fishing Gear Entanglements

Another prominent threat to many marine species, including whales, are entanglements. Entanglements occur when a marine animal interacts and gets caught up in fishing nets, ropes, and gear, or other marine debris including plastics. Whales are susceptible to this threat as entanglements around their fins, tail, and mouths are common. Entanglements can cause physical injuries to marine species, can prevent them from feeding if their mouths are blocked, and can even cause marine mammals to drown due to the weight of the debris responsible.

Fisheries are a cornerstone to the economy within Newfoundland and Labrador and are a massive part of our local culture and lifestyle. This does, however, lead to the occasional loss or abandonment of fishing gear which can contribute to the issue of entanglement and affect local marine species. Species can also be affected in a similar manner due to bycatch while fishing. This emphasizes the need to inform the public about their possible impact on marine species and promote safer alternatives, such as wildlife-friendly fishing gear and avoiding outdated or unsustainable fishing practices.

Pollution

Pollution within both terrestrial and marine ecosystems is another big issue that has resulted from human activities and affected marine wildlife. Marine debris describes garbage and other materials which make their way into the ocean and remain there. This can include all sorts of litter of varying sizes. Micro and macro plastics are a big part of this problem as these materials take hundreds of years to break down within the oceans.

An emotional example of this issue can be observed in The Great Pacific Garbage Patch seen below. This patch is the largest offshore plastic accumulation zone recorded and has resulted from the approximate 1.15 to 2.41 million tonnes of plastic that enter the ocean as debris each year. The collection of marine debris sits in the North Pacific Ocean.

The immense degree of marine debris in our oceans poses a risk to whales and other marine species as these animals commonly consume these materials accidentally while feeding. When this happens, the plastic debris cannot be digested by these marine species and remain within their stomach. This can make the animals feel full and can prevent them from feeding and taking in nutrients in the future. Some debris can also mimic food sources and as a result, can trick marine species into eating them. Images of beached whales with stomachs full of plastics have become more common within the media in recent years, showing the devastating impact of this issue and stressing the importance of reducing our impacts on the oceans.

Photography by Ray Boland, NOAA.

Noise pollution

Noise pollution is another pollution type that poses a threat to whales and other marine species. Anthropogenic noise describes sounds within marine environments that result from human activities, spread throughout the environment, and affects species within it. These sounds can result from vessel traffic, pile driving and seismic activities, windmills, oil and gas exploration and drilling, SONAR, and construction activities. The impacts of noise pollution are especially concerning to whales and other marine mammals which are highly vocal and rely on sound and echolocation to function in their environments. Masking, for example, is a common result of anthropogenic noise which reduces a marine animal’s ability to detect sounds of interest within their environment as these sounds are drowned out by human activities.

The impacts of marine noise pollution can include inducing behavioral changes in affected species, displacement in their environments, shifts and influences to migratory paths, avoidance, unnecessary stress on the animals, animals becoming stranded, and hearing damage or acoustic trauma. The latter of this list can include temporary and permanent threshold shifts which affect the range of sounds the animal can detect and can seriously affect their livelihood. Within Newfoundland, noise pollution created by vessel traffic in our fishery and recreational areas should be of concern. Therefore, communication of these possible impacts to boat-goers within our province is important to protect our marine species and preserve our local ecosystems.

Climate change

Climate change is a continual concern to species and environments worldwide. Within our oceans, temperatures are rising, species are shifting Northward in search of cooler waters, habitats are becoming uninhabitable due to temperature changes and ocean acidification, and ocean waters are rising as sea ice and glaciers melt. The changes in ocean distribution of species caused by these impacts of climate change affect their habitats and migratory patterns but also impacts our fisheries, culture, and tourism. These three aspects are a big part of Newfoundland life, with our long history in the fisheries, the industry founding our economy, and our use of local whale species and other marine species as tourist attractions to draw people to our province. This local example stresses the impacts that climate change can have on the ecosystem and our lives and the importance of combating these trends and working towards resolving the climate crisis.

Report animals in distress

When seeing an animal in distress, it can be a common response to want to help them right away. However, if not helped properly, the animals and the people helping them could get hurt. If boaters see animals in distress, it is important that they not try to help on their own. Calls should be made to the proper authorities that can safely free trapped animals. Calls for marine mammals in distress in Newfoundland can be made to Fisheries and Oceans or to Whale Release and Strandings. 

Report species at risk

Reporting sightings of endangered species can also help to protect marine mammals. Some species, like the North Atlantic Right Whale, are critically endangered. It is important that any time someone sees these animals to report them to proper authorities. CPAWS Marine Species Survey can be used to report sightings of all marine mammals, including those that are endangered. These reports can paint a clear picture of population numbers and population distribution of marine mammals. This in turn can help with the development of recovery strategies for species at risk. 

1) You can help save marine mammals (whale, dolphin, seal) or sea turtles in distress by reaching out to: 

Whale Release and Strandings Newfoundland and Labrador (Tangly Whales Inc.): 1-888-895-3003 or 1-709-895-3003 

2) Help us better understand marine mammals and sea turtles by reporting your sightings: 

Marine mammal signtings:  whalesighting@dfo-mpo.gc.ca 

Reducing litter and plastic use 

Garbage and plastics can end up in our waters and animals may ingest them, or they can become tangled in certain types of debris. Properly disposing of old fishing gear and reporting lost fishing gear are also a great way to help marine mammals and prevent entanglement. Some plastics can resemble the food that marine mammals eat. For example, plastic bags look a lot like jellyfish in the water. Leatherback Sea Turtles can mistake plastic for food and end up ingesting it. This can lead to an inability to feed or cause failures of their digestive tracts. Large plastic debris or fishing gear can cause marine mammals to become entangled; entanglements can result in drowning or inability to feed. Therefore, reducing litter can keep it out of our oceans and help to protect marine life. 

Beach Cleanups

Organizing and participating in local beach cleanups is another great way to help protect marine mammals. Litter from beaches can end up in the oceans and cause problems for species that live in our oceans. Volunteering in local beach cleaning events with local conservation groups like CPAWS can help to prevent waste from ending up in our oceans. Beach cleanups can also help to identify the most common types of litter on beaches and determine the sources of the litter. This can help to reduce more waste build up in the future. For example, in recent years, plastic straws were commonly found on beaches during beach cleanups, this has caused some businesses to switch to paper straws, and some individuals to carry their own metal straws.  

Share your knowledge

Sharing knowledge of Marine Mammal Regulations and ways to help with friends, family, colleagues, and everyone in between can help to protect marine life. The more people that know the information, the more species that will be protected now and well into the future. 

View The Marine Identification Guidebook Here!

Aquatic Species at Risk in Newfoundland and Labrador

Click here to access our Aquatic Species at Risk Guidebook!

Species at Risk Act (SARA)

We see many marine wildlife species in our waters, some of which are considered at risk of becoming extinct! In Canada, we protect wildlife species at risk and their critical habitats through the Species at Risk Act (SARA), which was enacted in 2003. Prohibitions under the Act make it illegal to kill, harass, capture or in any way harm a species that has been listed under SARA. The ultimate success of SARA in protecting species depends on the cooperation between the public, government and industry.

Once species are assessed, they can be classified under one of four SARA categories:

Blue Whale

Scientific Name: Balaenoptera musculus  
SARA status: Endangered 

Appearance: The largest animal living on earth, they are coloured dark to light grey, every individual has a pattern of marks on their skin called mottling.  Their dorsal fin is small compared to their bodies, it sits very far back, almost at the end of the body. Their tails are large and straight or slightly curved, with a slight notch in the middle. Their blow is very tall and slender, it can reach 9m high. 

Behaviour and Diet: Blue Whales migrate in small herds, spend summers in northern waters and winters in temperate waters. They feed on krill and need about 4 tons a day. They feed by gulping large amounts of water. They typically dive for 5 to 15 minutes, and sometimes up to 20 minutes. They swim at sustained speeds of 2 to 8 km/h but can reach top speeds of 36 km/h. They are the loudest animals on earth, their calls are louder than a jet. 

Distribution and Population: Blue Whales are found in all oceans of the world. The whales seen in Newfoundland are part of the North Atlantic subpopulation. They generally leave at the end of summer but in years of low ice they may remain in the Gulf of St. Lawrence for much of the winter. Exact population numbers for this population are unknown, between 20 and 105 are seen annually in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.  

Most Vulnerable to: Past commercial whaling of Blue Whales is the main reason for declining populations. At least 11,000 Blue Whales were killed before 1960. Since the end of commercial whaling, human threats have come from ship strikes, entanglements, and pollution, particularly oil spills. Vessel strikes can harm or kill whales, the risk is higher in shipping areas with high vessel traffic. They can also become entangled in fishing gear including traps, pots, and nets. They can end up with compromised ability to feed or serious injuries which can result in death. 

Learn more: https://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/152-529

Fin Whale 

Scientific Name: Balaenoptera physalus 
Local Name: Finner, Razorback, Fin Back, Flathead, Herring Whale 
SARA status: Special Concern

Appearance: They have asymmetric coloration; the right lower jaw is mostly white, and the left lower jaw is mostly dark. Their dorsal fin is sickle-shaped and curves towards their back. Their tails are very rarely seen, they are slightly rounded with a notch in the middle. Their blow is narrow and cone shaped, it can reach up to 6m tall. 

Behavior and Diet: Fin Whales are the second largest baleen whale. They are migratory, feeding in cooler northern regions and breeding in warmer southern regions. They feed on krill, small schooling fish (herring, capelin), and squid. They feed by lunging into schools of prey with their mouths open. They fast in the winter when travelling to warmer waters. They are fast swimmers, and they travel in groups of two to seven whales. 

Distribution and Population: Fin whales are found all over the world, they winter in tropical regions and feed in northern regions in the summer. Estimates of population size have not been made since commercial whaling stopped, but it is believed that the Atlantic population is recovering. There are two subpopulations in the Atlantic, one summers in Newfoundland and winters near the coast of Nova Scotia. The second summers off Nova Scotia and winters further south. Fin whales may be seen near Newfoundland all year long but are more common in early spring to late fall.  

Most Vulnerable to: Historically, whaling lowered numbers and since the end of commercial whaling, populations seem to be recovering. Depletion of capelin stocks in the North Atlantic may have an impact on whales. Chemical pollution has also been shown to cause injury and death in Fin Whales. Entanglements in fishing gear and vessel strikes also play a role. The increase of vessel traffic in the North Atlantic has increased the risk of strikes. Whales can also be entangled in pots, traps or gillnets, which can result in drowning or inability to feed. 

Learn more: https://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/874-592

North Atlantic Right Whale 

Scientific Name: Eubaleana glacialis 
Local Name:  Right Whale
SARA status: Endangered  

 
Appearance: Large black baleen whale, they have thick lower lips, and many callosities (thick hard areas of skin) on their snouts, lower lips and above their eyes. Males can reach approximately 15m long and females can reach approximately 17m long. Their tails are black like their bodies and can often be seen then they are diving. They do not have a dorsal fin and have short, uniquely shaped fins. Their blow is V-shaped. 

Behavior and Diet: Right Whales feed by opening their mouths while they swim through plankton. They filter the plankton out of the water using their baleen. They feed anywhere between the surface and the bottom of the water column. Groups of Right Whales can socialize on the water’s surface and mating can occur during these socializations. They communicate using low-frequency moans and groans and these noises can maintain contact between individuals or be used for other social reasons. Right Whales also swim much slower than other baleen whales. 

Distribution and Population:  The North Atlantic population of Right Whales winters near the shore of Bermuda, Georgia, and Florida. They are occasionally seen off the coasts of Newfoundland and Nova Scotia in the summer while they feed. Populations are extremely low, one estimate for the North Atlantic population was less than 350 whales. 

Most Vulnerable to: Whaling lowered their numbers to critically low. Their name comes from being the “right” whale to hunt since they swim so slowly and have a thick layer of blubber. They also face threats from vessel strikes, entanglements and noise pollution. Because they swim so slowly, they are very vulnerable to being hit by vessels, causing serious injury or death. Their migration routes also fall along major shipping routes, further increasing the risk of hits. Entanglement in gear also causes problems for the whales, gear can cut the whales, cause them to drown or impair their ability to feed. Noise pollution from shipping, construction and oil exploration also cause problems for the whales. Because they communicate in low frequencies, they are especially at risk to noise pollution. This can affect their ability to find food or mates and navigate in the ocean. 

Learn more: https://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/780-298

Northern Bottlenose Whale 

Scientific Name: Hyperoodon ampullatus 
Local Name:  Bottlenose Whale
SARA status: Endangered 
 
Appearance: They are medium-sized whales that reach between six and nine meters in length and weigh up to eight tons. They have a distinct beak, their lower jaw extends slightly further than the upper, they also have a bulb on their heads. Young whales are dark brown to black, older whales are light to yellowish brown, with white beaks and foreheads.  Their blow is small and bushy and is about 1m tall. 

Behavior and Diet: Usually travel alone or in groups of four to ten individuals. Males will fight each other, using their large heads to hit other whales. They are deep divers that feed on deep-sea squid, herring, shrimp, sea cucumbers, and sea stars. They can regularly dive to more than 800m and the longest recorded dive was 70 minutes. 

Distribution and Population: Only found in the North Atlantic, in cool and subarctic waters. There are two distinct populations: the Scotian Shelf population and the Davis Straight population. They have also been sighted off the Grand Banks and Georges Bank. The Scotian Shelf population is estimated to be about 163 whales, there are no population estimates for the Davis Straight population. 

Most Vulnerable to: Noise pollution is a threat to these whales. Disturbances include military exercises, oil and gas exploration and extraction, and vessel and aircraft traffic. Noise pollution can lead to strandings and can displace whales from their habitats.  Vessel strikes and entanglements also pose threats, though the threat seems to be low. Over 30 years, only 9 entangled bottlenose whales were documented by DFO. Some individuals were also observed to have scars from vessel strikes or entanglement in gear. 

Learn more: https://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/162-299

Sowerby’s Beaked Whale 

Scientific Name: Mesoplodon bidens 
Local Name: North Atlantic beaked whale 
SARA status: Special Concern 
 
Appearance: They are medium-sized whales, reaching about 4.5 to 5.5m long. They are dark grey colored with light spotting. Their blow is hardly ever seen, and they have a small, wide dorsal fin that is slightly hooked, it sits about 2/3’s down their back. They have a dolphin-like head, a long snout, and a bulge on their heads. 

Behavior and Diet: They are suction feeders that dive in deep waters to eat deep sea fish and squid. They tend to swim alone or in small groups of two to six whales. They are generally hard to spot because they are weary of humans and keep a low profile. Sightings are extremely rare, especially in Newfoundland. 

Distribution and Population: They are only found in the North Atlantic, but their distribution is poorly known due to limited sightings. There are no estimates of population size. Rarity of sightings may mean the species is in decline, or it may mean there as been little search effort and that identifying the whales is very difficult. 

Most Vulnerable to: Threatened by underwater noise pollution, particularly from sonar and seismic surveys. They rely on sounds to feed, communicate, and navigate in the ocean, therefore sound pollution can disturb their behavior, cause injury to hearing structures or drive them out of areas they use to feed and breed. Seismic noise can also lead to whales beaching themselves. They are also at risk of ship strikes and entanglements in gear. Ship strikes are less likely due to their solitary nature, but with increases in vessel traffic, the risk is still present. They are also at risk of entanglements in gear such as gillnets. Entanglements can lead to drowning or impaired ability to feed.  

Learn more: https://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/169-432

Leatherback Sea Turtle 

Scientific Name: Dermochelys coriacea 
Local Name: Leatherback  
SARA status: Endangered 
 
Appearance: Do not have a hard shell, instead they have a soft, leathery one. They have a pink spot on the tops of their heads that is thought to play a role in detecting seasonal changes. They can reach up to 1.8m long and weigh between 750 to 1000 pounds. They have notches on their upper jaws and no teeth. 

Behavior and Diet: Leatherbacks have the longest migration of any sea turtle. They are strong swimmers and can dive approximately 1200 meters below the surface. They can stay below the surface for up to 85 minutes. They do not have teeth to crush or chew hard food, so they eat soft bodied animals like jellyfish and salps. Their throats have backward faced spines that help to keep their food down. When not diving, they swim at the surface. 

Distribution and Population: The North Atlantic subpopulation ranges from low latitude nesting beaches to northern feeding areas. Current population estimates from the IUCN estimate the numbers of mature individuals to be between 29,000 and 34,000. While the North Atlantic population appears to be increasing, globally the species is still in decline. Over 1000 turtles are thought to visit waters off Atlantic Canada in the summer months to feed. 

Most Vulnerable to: Entanglements and vessel strikes pose a threat to Leatherbacks. Entanglements can impair their ability to swim and result in drowning and result in an inability to feed. Because they swim at the surface, vessel strike can cause both lethal and non-lethal damage.  Ingestion of marine plastics poses a big risk to Leatherbacks. Plastic bags can resemble jellyfish and the turtle may eat them. Since they have spines in their throats to keep down food, the plastic gets stuck in their stomachs, causing a feeling of “fullness” that doesn’t go away leading to malnutrition or starvation. Plastics can also block their digestive tracts, leading to death. 

Learn more: https://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/1191-861

Sei Whale 

Scientific Name: Balaenoptera borealis 
Local Name: Rudolphi’s rorqual or pollack whale  
SARA status: Endangered 
 
Appearance: Long, slender bodies that are bluish gray to dark grey with a white underside. They can weigh up to 20 tons and reach 14 to 15m long. They have distinct grooves on their necks which allow their throats to expand when they take in water. Their dorsal fin is tall and hooked, it is about 2/3’s down the body. They have a short blow that reaches about 3 meters high. 

Behavior and Diet: Sei whales are filter feeders that skin the surface of the water to eat. They do not lunge or take big gulps like other baleen whales. They mostly feed on plankton but will also eat schooling fish or squid. They are the fastest baleen whale, reaching speeds of up to 50 km/h. They generally travel in groups of two to five but may form larger groups during times when there is an abundance of food. 

Distribution and Population: Sei whales are found all over the world, they make seasonal migrations from tropic areas in the winter to colder waters for feeding in summer. Sei whales are found off the coast of Newfoundland in the summers for feeding. Some individuals are also present year-round. Little is known about the North Atlantic population of Sei Whales. Aerial surveys only identified 7 whales between 2007 and 2016, which suggests a population of a few hundred individuals or less. 

Most Vulnerable to: Threats to Sei whales include noise pollution from seismic surveys, shipping, and military exercises. Noise can disturb their normal behavior by drowning out their calls, it can also drive them out of their normal feeding or breeding grounds. They are also vulnerable to vessel strikes or entanglements in fishing gear. Boat strikes can kill or injure the whales and increased shipping routes across the Atlantic further increases the risk. Entanglements in fishing gear such as traps, pots or gillnets are a huge threat and entanglements can result in drowning or inability to feed. 

Learn more: https://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/754-836

Great White Shark

Scientific Name: Carcharodon carcharias
Local Name:  Great White, White shark, Atlantic population of White Shark
SARA status: Endangered 
 
Appearance: The Great White Shark is the largest predatory fish in the world, averaging 2 to 6 meters long. They have black eyes, a pointed dorsal fin, and a sharp colour contrast between its grey or black back and its white underside. The sharks have a sharply pointed conical head and snout with a torpedo-like body. In their mouth, they have 5 rows that house about 3000 teeth. When a tooth is lost, it’s simply replaced by a new one meaning sharks use about 20,000 teeth in their lifetime.

Behavior and Diet: These sharks are known for being highly mobile and preying upon fish and marine mammals, including whales. Great White Sharks have a specialized blood vessel structure called a countercurrent exchanger that allows them to quickly adapt to different water temperatures.

Distribution and Population: Great White Sharks travel long distances making long migrations every year. Sharks found in Atlantic Canada are likely seasonal migrants belonging to a widespread Northwest Atlantic population and are rarely seen in Newfoundland and Labrador. They are widely distributed in the sub-polar and tropical seas of both hemispheres. There are no estimates of population size in Canadian waters, however, in Atlantic Canadian waters there are 22 confirmed sightings between 2009 and 2018. Satellite and acoustic tags have recorded White Sharks in several areas throughout eastern Canadian waters including the St. Lawrence Estuary, the Grand Banks, and the Bay of Fundy.

Most Vulnerable to: Incidental mortality from fishing otherwise known as bycatch. Although measures to improve fishing practices have been introduced, the primary threat to these sharks continues to be death related to incidental capture by fishing industries. This threat perseveres due to their low reproductive rate. In some places, sharks are still targeted in commercial and recreational fisheries and harvested for their teeth and jaws for jewelry. Pollution, underwater noise, and offshore and coastal development activities also pose as threats.

Learn more: http://species-registry.canada.ca/index-en.html#/species/899-633

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April 14 2020

Ocean’s Day

cpawsadmin Campaigns, Marine Campaigns, Ocean Campaigns

On World Oceans Day, people around the world celebrate and raise awareness for ocean, which connects us all!

For over 10 years, CPAWS-NL has been a part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Ocean’s Day Committee to host a family-friendly, free event to celebrate World Ocean’s Day, in St. John’s.

Joint committee members include: CPAWS-NL, Government of Canada – Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador – Department of Fisheries and Land Resources, World Wildlife Fund – Canada, Food Fisheries and Allies Workers, Parks Canada, and the Marine Institute.

Due to COVID-19, this year we will celebrate Ocean’s Day digitally!

Learn more and check out the events here!

World Ocean’s Day Theme 2022:

One Ocean, One Climate, One Future – Together

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Check out how the world is celebrating World Ocean’s Day

April 1 2020

Protected Areas Plan

cpawsadmin Forest Campaigns, Terrestrial Campaigns

Protected Areas Plan A Home For Nature

On May 28, 2020, the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Advisory Council (WERAC) (an independent group of appointed volunteers, over the last 25 years, from across the province who have a wide variety of backgrounds but share an interest in conservation and an awareness of the importance of protected areas) was finally granted the opportunity to publicly release the long-awaited proposed Protected Areas Plan for the Island of Newfoundland, entitled A Home for Nature. The proposed plan for the Island of Newfoundland, which was devised and edited over the past several decades within the various governmental departments, is a blueprint for developing a system of protected areas for the Island.

The boundaries proposed in this plan are not final. The Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Advisory Council (WERAC) will engage the public in two ways. During the first phase, the public had until October 1, 2020 to submit feedback on the plan to WERAC, who used this feedback to provide recommendations to the government, and create the What We Heard Report. Once the overall plan is approved, consultations on each proposed site will proceed to ensure stakeholders and the government have the chance to review the proposed boundaries and determine what activities should be acceptable in each site, such as existing traditional uses.

Importance of Protected Areas

Protected areas are one of the core ways to help us conserve nature – all our species and their habitats. As we develop much of the landscape in our province for resource-based industries, we also need to create areas where the focus is on nature conservation. Creating this balance is fundamental to sustainable living in our province, not only for nature but for our own physical and mental health and well-being. They are areas dedicated to conserving nature and wildlife for current and future generations. They are places to experience and enjoy and learn about our natural and cultural heritage.

The areas put forth in the proposed plan will protect examples of some of the Island’s natural regions that do not have any type of protection or have only partial protection (i.e. some natural features are missing). There are also hotspots of biodiversity such as important breeding bird areas and rare plant sites that should receive protection. These areas have a lower level of impact from human activities. In some natural regions, there simply aren’t any areas without previous human disturbance (i.e. roads, trails, hydroelectric developments, and forestry or mining activities), so the areas selected have either grown back to some degree or are the most intact option remaining that still has representative characteristics. In some natural regions, more than one reserve is proposed so that all the typical features of a natural region are included in at least one of the reserves. If there were several options for a proposed reserve, the sites that had the least impact on potential resource development were selected.

For more information check out the WERAC Questions & Answers guide and the story map about the proposed plan.

Background

In 2019, the federal government committed to protecting 25% of our land and water by 2025, and 30% by 2030. These are lofty goals and a small window of delivery given the rate at which conservation has historically progressed in Canada.

Currently, less than 7% of Newfoundland and Labrador carries any measure of protection. In fact, we’re considered one of the lowest across the country. Newfoundland remains the only province that does not even have a sustainable plan!

Since the early 90’s the provincial government has publicly committed to devising a subsequent network of protected areas but had yet to deliver. Based on science, the candidate protected areas represent some of the best remaining natural areas in the province, including incredibly significant coastal seabird colonies, species-at-risk habitat, and important wetland habitat.

Under the Current Liberal Government:

2015: the newly elected Liberal government committed to “ finalize and publicly release a Natural Areas System Plan in collaboration with your colleagues” in the responsible Ministers Mandate letter.

2017: in May a Private Members Bill was put forth in the House of Assembly to “Support the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador designating more protected areas in our province.” A motion that was approved and documented by all parties.
2019: the new Fisheries and Land Resources Minister Mandate Letter cited “Working in collaboration with your colleagues, the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Environment and the Minister of Natural Resources, to continue work on a Natural Areas System Plan.”

In February 2020, after much debate, public pressure, and the resignation of 2 prominent members of the Wilderness and Ecological Reserves Advisory Council (WERAC), the Minister responsible for Fisheries and Land Resources, publicly announced he will be giving WERAC an opportunity to release the latest version of the proposed Protected Areas Plan, after which was initially only 30 days to gauge public feedback, which has now been extended to 5 months, and then go to Cabinet.

Based on this, if there’s support for WERAC’s plan, the Minster could initiate a direct legislated enactment of the plan. In its first phase, the plan sought support and input so that WERAC can provide recommendations to the provincial government on what and how these new proposed protected areas could look like for the island while allowing ongoing traditional activities that are currently in place to continue. This is just the first phase of public dialogue and each site moving forward will have individual consultations in collaboration with stakeholders on the design.

Now more than 25 years later, the long-awaited proposed Protected Areas Plan, entitled A Home for Nature, has been released (May 2020).

March 27 2020

Laurentian Channel MPA

cpawsadmin Marine Campaigns, Ocean Campaigns

The Laurentian Channel has been identified as containing the highest levels of biodiversity off the Newfoundland shores. The variety of depths within the Channel creates great diversity of habitats. These habitats allow many different species to live, spawn and migrate through the area.

On World Oceans Day June 8th, 2010, the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), announced the Laurentian Channel was a new Area of Interest (AOI) for potential designation as a Marine Protected Area under the Oceans Act. The Laurentian Channel MPA was established in April of 2019, and is the largest no-take zone in Canada.

The Laurentian Channel MPA supports the conservation of biodiversity through the protection of key species, habitats, and ecosystem structure and function, and through scientific research. Conservation objectives were developed in consultation with stakeholders, and focus on six species: Sea Pens, Black Dogfish, Smooth Skate, Northern Wolffish, Porbeagle Shark, and Leatherback Sea Turtle. Many other species are benefiting from the MPA regulations.

The Laurentian Channel MPA is located off the southwest coast of Newfoundland and Labrador (NAFO Subdivision 3P), covers approximately 11,908 km2, and includes the water column, seabed and subsoil to a depth of 5m. The area was originally identified by DFO as an ecologically and biologically significant area (EBSA) within the Placentia Bay-Grand Banks Large Ocean Management Area (PB/GB LOMA).

CPAWS EFFORTS:

CPAWS-NL has been working on the Laurentian Channel since 2010, striving to make it a strong MPA to protect its incredible biodiversity. Overtime, the size of the Laurentian Channel MPA has decreased in size by over 30%. In 2017, CPAWS asked the public to write a letter to our Federal Government to keep oil and gas out of the Laurentian Channel, with other ENGO groups, together over 70,000 letters from Canadians were sent expressing concern of oil and gas in this area. CPAWS has also been active in ensuring all Marine Protected Areas have internationally recognized minimum standards. With the announcement of Minimum Standards of MPAs in Canada, CPAWS-NL was excited that Laurentian Channel is the first MPA to have these standards applied.

Click or Scroll down for more information on the Laurentian Channel and CPAWS’ efforts in our Story Map

Quick Facts

QUICK FACTS ABOUT THE AREA

Highest concentration of Black Dogfish in Canadian waters and is the only place where pupping occurs.
Important spawning, nursery, and feeding area for a variety of species including Porbeagle Shark and Smooth Skate.
Two species at risk – the Northern Wolffish and Leatherback Sea Turtle frequent the MPA; in fact, the south coast of Newfoundland is one of the most highly-frequented leatherback foraging areas in Atlantic Canada.
Only two known mating grounds for Porbeagle Shark.
Approximately 20 species of cetaceans have been observed in the area,
Sea pens have been recorded in the greatest numbers and diversity; with the Laurentian Channel having the highest sea pen concentrations within the entire Newfoundland and Labrador Shelves Bioregion.

The conservation efforts as set out by the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for the Laurentian Channel Marine Protected Area are as follows:

Protect corals, particularly significant concentrations of sea pens, from harm due to human activities (e.g., fishing, oil and gas exploratory drilling, submarine cable installation and anchoring)
Protect Black Dogfish from human induced mortality (e.g., bycatch in the commercial fishery).
Protect Smooth Skate from human induced mortality (e.g., bycatch in the commercial fishery.
Protect Porbeagle sharks from human induced mortality (e.g., bycatch in the commercial fishery, seismic activities).
Promote the survival and recovery of Northern Wolffish by minimizing risk of harm from human activities (e.g., bycatch in the commercial fishery).
Promote the survival and recovery of Leatherback Sea Turtles by minimizing risk of harm from human activities (e.g., entanglement in commercial fishing gear, seismic activities).

The Laurentian Channel MPA is the first MPA that applies Canada’s new protection standards. The Laurentian Channel MPA Regulations prohibit activities that disturb, damage, destroy or remove from this Area, living marine organisms or any part of their habitat or that is likely to do so, unless listed as exceptions in the Regulations or approved by the Minister. Oil and gas exploration and exploitation activities, including seismic surveys, as well as mining, dumping and bottom trawling are prohibited in the entirety of the area. The MPA is also the first to prohibit all commercial and recreational fishing throughout the designated area.

The Regulations establish two management zones which provide varying levels of protection within the MPA, offering the most stringent protection to areas which need it the most. These zones will conserve and protect the biological diversity and productivity of the MPA. The Core Protection Zone only allows the following activities: for public safety and national security; Indigenous food, social and ceremonial fisheries; and marine navigation activities – except for anchoring. The Core Protection Zone provides additional protection by prohibiting the laying of submarine cables. In the Adaptive Management Zone, activities such as anchoring, submarine cable installation and scientific research may be permitted, but only if they do not impact the conservation objectives of the MPA.