| Conservation: a common goal |
Through information on the Park’s history, purpose and partnership approach, this columns promote what has become a unique marine conservation area in Quebec. The columns will also describe how the marine park meets its conservation and presentation goals, encouraging public participation in future development initiatives.These articles will be published in local weekly newspapers such as L’Hebdo Charlevoisien, Journal Haute-Côte-Nord, Saint-Laurent Portage, Progrès-Dimanche and Quebec Chronicle Telegraph.
Protecting the marine environment requires an understanding of its various natural and cultural components. Since the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park was established, biologists who visit the park have gathered precious information about the flora and fauna of the fjord and estuary. Protective measures
Thanks to research and constant sharing among park users, protective measures have been implemented. One of the most important is designed to protect marine mammals. The Marine Activities in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park Regulations describe correct behaviour in the presence of marine mammals, particularly those that are endangered. The regulation took effect in 2002 to reduce disruptions to essential animal activities, such as feeding, rest and reproduction.
| Photo : Parks Canada/Isabelle Pelletier |
| Biologists take an inventory of marine resources, to increase knowledge of the marine environment within the conservation area. |
A zoning plan will soon define allowable activities within the conservation area, bringing together our best information on marine ecosystems such as active beluga grounds. The goal will be to balance conservation and the activities that take place in the area. But despite all our knowledge and abilities, the future of our natural environment is the responsibility of each user. Let’s make sure that future generations can enjoy it as much as we do today!
Doing my part! The marine park’s shoreline is an excellent place to admire the beauty of the landscape and marine life. In some places, the St. Lawrence is so deep close to the bank that whales come within several dozen metres. Watching birds and marine mammals from the shoreline is the perfect way to appreciate their majesty without disturbing them. But please be discreet and keep your distance! |

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