National Marine Conservation Area Legislation receives Royal Assent
June 24, 2015 – Ottawa, Ontario - Parks Canada
The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, today announced Royal Assent of the Bill to establish the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area – making it one of the world’s largest freshwater marine protected area.
The Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area comprises more than 10,000 square kilometres of the lake, and includes lakebed, islands and shore lands. Its creation will also contribute to the local economy by enhancing tourism.
National marine conservation areas are part of Canada’s growing number of natural heritage sites. Under the jurisdiction of Parks Canada, marine conservation areas balance environmental protection with responsible economic activity. They safeguard key elements of the ecosystem while providing lasting benefits to local coastal communities who depend on marine industries such as commercial fishing, sport fishing, recreational boating and shipping.
As a legacy to future generations, national marine conservation areas provide opportunities to learn about and experience these exceptional places and the cultures of the people who live there. First Nations, Métis and local communities have demonstrated their commitment to protecting the rugged beauty of Lake Superior’s extraordinary natural area and increasing its use for recreational purposes. The Government of Canada will continue to work with communities and Aboriginal partners in order to protect these special places and share their culture and their stories.
The creation of the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area contributes to Canada’s National Conservation Plan with concrete action to conserve Canada’s lands and waters and connect Canadians to nature.
Jonathan Lefebvre
Office of the Minister of the Environment
819-997-1441
Media Relations
Parks Canada
1-855-862-1812
pc.media@pc.gc.ca
