Coastal Connections is a speaker series highlighting different coastal and marine areas of New Brunswick. This fall and winter we highlighted the beautiful and diverse Quoddy Region of the Bay of Fundy, an incredible place in need of protection.
Attendees were able to hear from 3 different speakers about their connection to the Quoddy Region.
‘The Window’ by Bruce Smith of Seascape Kayak Tours. A talk about Rivers 2 Ocean, Bruce’s journey to paddle from Edmundston to Deer Island, New Brunswick along the Wolastoq (Saint John) River and the Bay of Fundy to raise awareness about our connection to water and the need for protection in the region.
‘There’s a Whale in My Weir and Other Stories from the Canadian Whale Institute’ by Sebastian Teunissen of the Canadian Whale Institute. A talk about the work the Institute has done over the past 25 years in conservation, research, educational programming and rescuing entangled whales.
‘Diving Back in Time: Underwater Changes in the Quoddy Region over 40 years’ by Dr. Claire Goodwin of the Huntsman Marine Science Centre. A talk about the Huntsman’s team of SCUBA divers and what they found when they surveyed subtidal sites in the Western Isles, Bay of Fundy that were last surveyed over 40 years ago for the ‘Bay of Fundy Research Inventory’.
Check out the recordings of events 1 and 3 if you were unable to attend:
For many of us living in New Brunswick, the amount of time we spend outside in the winter months dramatically decreases. There are many reasons why staying inside your warm home is appealing at this time of year, but there are so many things to experience in the forest in winter that are unlike at any other time of the year.
As the days start to get slightly longer, but winter weather continues, now is a perfect time to get out, explore a forest near you and take in all of its winter beauty. As you are able, and when it is safe to do so, take some time to explore all your senses. The forest provides so many wonderful opportunities to experience each of your senses and more deeply connect to the environment around you. We recommend bringing a notebook/journal to record some of the senses you experience and how you feel being still and present in nature.
Hear
Have you ever noticed the quiet sensation of the forest in the winter? There is a distinct absence of noises, movements, and songs that you might hear other times of the year. Temperature plays a big role in the movement of sound waves, and sound moves slower through colder air, making it easier to hear noises from further away[1]. On your next trip into the forest, take a moment to be silent and observe what you hear around you.
Black-Capped Chickadee sitting on an icy branch, by Brittany Crossman
Winter in the forest is a beautiful time to listen to bird’s songs! While you might be able to hear more birds in the spring and summer, the winter provides a unique opportunity to listen to the calls of birds that do not migrate with the seasons.
While you are on a hike, tap into your sense of sound, to listen to the birds around you. What kinds of songs do you hear? Are there many birds, calling to each other, or a few marking their territory? Do they sound playful and upbeat, or distressed, possibly warning of danger? Are they long calls, or short chirps? These distinctions can tell you a lot about what bird you are listening to.
Identifying bird calls is an impressive skill to master, but with a bit of practice, and quiet time listening in nature, you can begin to hear the different sounds that make each bird species unique.
See
Sight is the predominant sense that most people rely on when out in the forest. But how often do you take a closer look off the trail, to see what is hiding deeper in the forest? While snow buries many plants and wildlife close to the ground in the winter months, there are still many animals that are active when temperatures drop. While many people believe that animals go into a full sleep for the winter, very few animals are true hibernators (meaning they are dormant through the entire winter) and most maintain some level of activity in the winter to find food, find shelter and protect themselves.
Many animals that remain active in the winter months have adapted to camouflage into their surroundings. The snowshoe hare is one example of this, where in spring and summer they can be observed with brown hair, but shed the brown for a white coat in the winter, to better blend in with the snow. Instead of direct animal signings, next time you are out in the forest, put your detective skills to the test and look for other signs of wildlife.
Some indicators that an animal might be nearby include tracks in the snow, animal scat, remains of nests or dens, and shedding of fur or feathers. Remember, it is always important to keep your distance from animals, and not disturb them while you are in their home.
Smell
Hiking trail in the winter at Mactaquac Provincial Park , by Danielle Hak
Take a deep breath in. Not only can this help you relax, but you may also notice some different scents in the forest! You may notice the towering Pine trees, the winding Cedars, the conical Spruces, and the narrow Firs. At first, they may smell the same, but the coniferous trees in New Brunswick have some unique aromas!
Trees and plants get their scents from chemical compounds called Terpenes. Each tree has its own special make-up of terpenes, which not only give trees their scent, but it also acts as a deterrent to insects and some types of fungi[2]! Test and see if you can smell the difference between the conifers!
Do any of these scents remind you of anything you may keep in your home? Some may remind you of the Holiday season. Pine trees, Spruce trees and Balsam Fir are often used as Christmas trees and used to make wreaths and garlands as festive decorations! You may also recognize cedar as it is very fragrant and one of the four sacred medicines used in Indigenous cultures for smudging.
Taste
When was the last time you tried to catch snowflakes on your tongue? In heavy snowfalls, we often try to keep our head down, avoiding winds and snow on our face, but you could be missing some of the beauty that is unfolding around you. This classic childhood activity of catching snowflakes is fun for all ages and can be quite a peaceful way to spend your time in the forest.
If you find yourself on a forest walk during a snowfall, try to stand as still as you can and see how many snowflakes you can catch. Notice how cold it is around you, as you monitor your breath in the frosty air.
This is an especially fun activity during snowfalls with large snowflakes. Did you know that a snowflake’s size correlates to the temperature? As snow crystals fall, many can collide together, giving the appearance of larger snowflakes. This is most likely to happen right around freezing (0 degrees Celsius) because as the temperature gets colder the snow crystals are drier and less likely to stick together, making snowflakes look smaller[3].
Touch
Look around at all the trees. Some may have dropped their leaves; some may still have their needles, but no matter what happens in the winter, all trees keep their bark! Have you ever noticed the differences between the bark? Have you ever seen the different patterns and textures? Can you feel the difference between them?
Most trees have unique differences in their bark that distinguish them from each other, even if it may not be obvious at first. For example, both Aspen and Birch trees have similar white bark, but Birch has lots of little pores called “lenticels” and the bark often peels away from the tree. Other trees have defining patterns, like Ash trees that have deep diamond ridges in the bark, or Ironwood trees that have long strips of bark that are loose at either end.
Take some time to explore trees through touch and note any differences in patterns, edges, textures, bumps, and thickness. It is best to be careful when touching the trees, so as not to cut yourself on anything sharp, like any twigs or Spruce needles. It is also best to bring hand sanitizer to clean your hands after feeling the tree bark. Some trees might leave you with sticky sap residue on your hands, but this is all a part of the fun of exploring different trees!
Close up photos of tree Bark (from left to right): White Birch, Mountain Ash, Trembling Aspen
Photo credit: Emily Ruttan
If you go out on a 5-senses walk, we would love to hear about it. Tag us on Facebook (@CPAWSNewBrunswick) or Instagram (@cpawsnb) and share your experience. While you are out in nature, remember to always pay attention to where you are, avoid stepping on any wildlife, and do not intentionally disturb the habitat. This includes picking plants, removing bark, or chasing any animals. It is especially important to keep your distance from any animals you might encounter.
We hope you are inspired to get outside this winter and cannot wait to hear about all what our supporters have found in the forests near them!
As the holidays are quickly approaching, you might be looking for the perfect gift for your friends or family this season. This year, why not give the gift of nature? CPAWS NB’s 2021 Holiday Gift Guide is sure to have something for everyone, whether you are shopping for an adventurer who loves to spend time outdoors, a curious environmentalist who loves to enjoy nature on a calm and peaceful hike, or the nature lover wanting to learn more about NB’s wild spaces.
This year, we included even more experiences to get you and your loved ones out into some of New Brunswick’s most beautiful land and waters, giving back to organizations that are working to protect these areas, and supporting local businesses.
1. Whale Watching Tour with Quoddy Link
Photo by Marcel LeBlanc
Gift an experience unlike any other! A Whale Watching Tour with Quoddy Link is an up-close and front row seat to see some of the most breathtaking animals in the Bay of Fundy, including whales, harbor seals, harbor porpoise and many seabirds –making this the perfect gift for curious minds of any age. A trip with Quoddy Link is the perfect way to see these animals in their natural habitat and learn about why it is so important to protect ocean areas in the Bay of Fundy.
As an environmentally conscious business, Quoddy Link is dedicated to protecting all the animals they see by upholding the highest level of environmental standards and ethics.
Rediscover the beauty of New Brunswick’s with a Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tour, where you will be immersed in local flora and fauna, and learn about the history and traditional uses of these plants in medicines, food and ceremonies.
Wabanaki Tree Spirt offers medicine walks, dream catcher workshops and culinary experiences for groups of 4-8 people. These tours will instill a sense of wonder and curiosity about the healing properties of plants within the forest and will be an excellent gift for any nature lover in your life.
3. Waterfalls of New Brunswick: A Guide, 2nd Edition by Nicholas Guitard
Nicholas Guitard’s second edition of Waterfalls of New Brunswick: A Guide is the ideal gift for the hiking and waterfall enthusiast on your list. With a variety of short and long hikes, as well as varying difficulty levels and trail conditions, there is a waterfall for everyone in this book. This edition features well-known favorites from across New Brunswick, as well as 60 new waterfalls for you to discover. The book also includes important trail information, and tips on how to be respectful of nature while you are out exploring.
Try looking for this and other books on our gift guide at a local or independent bookstore in your area!
4. Wabanaki Maple (Local Indigenous Maple syrup company)
A delicious addition to any breakfast table, this year, give the gift of locally produced maple syrup. Maple syrup has been used by First Nations for centuries, and Wabanaki Maple is proud to harvest, boil and refine their syrup with techniques that have been passed down through generations. Wabanaki Maple is an Indigenous and woman-owned business located in Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation).
This is truly a gift that gives back, as Wabanaki Maple is committed to helping to preserve the environment and helping Indigenous communities thrive.
This experience is for the adventure seeker on your list. Seascape Kayak Tours is a breathtaking way to experience the coastal waters of Quoddy region. Launching from Deer island, Bruce Smith and his team of experienced guides will not only show you some of the most beautiful spots along the island’s coast, they also have intricate knowledge of the local ecosystem, dangers to its biodiversity and vison for protecting the beautiful waters you’ll see.
You can give the adventurer in your life an unforgettable excursion of either a full-day tour (6-7 hours), half-day tour (3-4 hours) or a sunset paddle (2 hours).
The last experience on our list this year is a visit to the Elsipogtog Mi’kmaq Cultural Center. Visit the Cultural Center or sign up for one of their Mi’kmaq Heritage Path Tours or Traditional Mi’kmaq Basket Making Tours. Whether you live in the area, or want to make it a road trip, this is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural practices of Mi’kmaq Peoples and their connection to the land.
7. Restigouche: The Long Run of the Wild River by Philip Lee
Image by Goose Lane Editions
This book was featured on our list last year, but it remains one of our staff favorites to read and gift to the nature lover in your life. This book goes beyond the surface of the natural landscape and dives into the cultural significance and rich history of the Restigouche region. As a unique and irreplaceable area of our province, this book tells stories of the river and its people, making it a wonderful gift for anyone interested in learning more about the living history of these lands and waters.
If you are looking for a gift for the kids in your life, then look no further. Inspire the next generation of naturalists and spark their sense of curiosity for the natural world around them, with the Mi’kmaq Alphabet Book, written by Shyla Augustine and illustrated by Braelyn Cyr. This book is a great way to introduce new words, languages and local biodiversity to the little ones on your list.
Didn’t find what you are looking for on our list? Check out the Buy Local NB directory, created by the Conservation Council of New Brunswick. Buying local gifts this year will support businesses right in your own community, as well as reduce environmental impacts associated with shipping products from other parts of the country or world.
Through the Buy Local NB directory, you can find all the food you need for a big holiday dinner from local farmers, maple syrup producers or all your favorite desserts from local bakers. The directory also contains all kinds of different crafts from their list of local artists, with a unique collection of local businesses, you are sure to find something for everyone on your list.
This year, you can give the gift of nature protection by making a donation in a friend or family member’s name to CPAWS NB. Your donations will support local conservation work, Environmntal education programs, and ensure the long term protection of the natural areas you love.
“Our goal is to offer you the highest quality sea kayaking experience possible. Our desire is to help you develop a sense of place and make an authentic personal connection to the natural environment.” These words by founder and owner Bruce Smith encompass what Seascape Kayak Tours is all about.
Photo by Annika Smithson
Seascape Kayak Tours has been operating as a small, ecotourism focused company since 1994, specializing in small group travel that minimizes environmental impact and allows for a more enriching experience. They offer fully guided expeditions whether you are looking for a couple hours, a full-day tour or an overnight adventure. Their base on Deer Island is located right in the heart of the Quoddy Region of New Brunswick, surrounded by the beautiful ocean environment of the Bay of Fundy. This allows visitors to experience a variety of marine ecosystems and see the abundant wildlife of the area including whales, bald eagles, fish, seals and sea birds. Their kayak tours have been designated as a Canadian Signature Experience by the Canadian Tourism Commission.
In addition to sharing the Quoddy Region around Deer Island with visitors, Seascape also provides sea kayak expeditions to Newfoundland and operates tours in Costa Rica from November to May.
Seascape was founded by Bruce Smith, an outdoor enthusiast and avid environmentalist. With a strong background in outdoor recreation and 25 years of experience in outdoor leadership, Bruce has worked for various governments and organizations developing outdoor courses, receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010 by the New Brunswick Department of the Environment. With a mission to raise awareness of the importance of the Quoddy Region and the need to protect it, Bruce ensures Seascape maintains a strong commitment to culture, history and the natural environment. Each tour looks to share the importance of the region with visitors and raise awareness of the ocean as a precious resource. He hopes that by facilitating personal connections to nature and sharing the importance of the area, people will be more inclined to help protect it.
Contact Seascape Kayak Tours and book an adventure to experience the magic and wonder of the Quoddy Region for yourself.
New Brunswick’s leading conservation groups are asking candidates what they will do to protect NB’s nature and act on climate change if they are elected in Canada’s federal election on September 20th.
In the open letter, Nature NB, the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society—NB Chapter, the Conservation Council of New Brunswick and the Nature Trust of New Brunswick are asking candidates to define how they will meet the international and national land conservation targets of 25 per cent by 2025 and 30 per cent by 2030, respectively.
The groups say that protecting, restoring, and stewarding land and ocean to flourish reduces the risks and impacts from extreme climatic events, curbs species and biodiversity decline, and promotes healthy communities for Canadians.
The federal government has committed to the largest nature conservation target in Canadian history; however, without investments in funding to steward these protected areas, we will not reach these targets or effectively conserve nature for the long-term. In New Brunswick, with one of the country’s lowest protected area rates at 4.7 per cent, providing additional support to ensure the province reaches its current goal of 10 per cent protection, as well as removing any barriers to establishing and stewarding new protected land and ocean, is vital.
The groups’ questionnaire asks candidates what they will do to invest in Indigenous-led nature planning in New Brunswick, including the establishment of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas and their stewardship by Indigenous Guardians, Indigenous-led efforts to restore and steward species at risk and habitat, and recognize and respect Indigenous knowledge in all aspects of nature conservation.
Given that privately-owned protected land can increase connectivity between habitats and when combined with provincial and federal protected areas, are critical for expanding the landscape that is managed for ecosystem resilience especially under climate change, the groups also asked candidates what they would do to empower and incentivize New Brunswick landowners to become involved in advocating and managing for conservation and protected areas as a part of community climate response.
D’importants groupes de conservation du Nouveau-Brunswick demandent aux candidats ce qu’ils feront pour protéger la nature du Nouveau-Brunswick et agir sur le changement climatique s’ils sont élus lors de l’élection fédérale du Canada le 20 septembre.
Dans la lettre ouverte, Nature NB, la Société pour la nature et les parcs du Canada – section du Nouveau-Brunswick, le Conseil de conservation du Nouveau-Brunswick et la Fondation pour la protection des sites naturels du Nouveau-Brunswick demandent aux candidats de définir comment ils atteindront les objectifs internationaux et nationaux de conservation des terres, soit 25 % d’ici 2025 et 30 % d’ici 2030, respectivement.
Les groupes affirment que la protection, la restauration et l’intendance des terres et des océans pour qu’ils s’épanouissent réduisent les risques et les impacts des événements climatiques extrêmes, freinent le déclin des espèces et de la biodiversité et favorisent des communautés saines pour les Canadiens.
Le gouvernement fédéral s’est engagé à atteindre le plus grand objectif de conservation de la nature de l’histoire du Canada ; toutefois, sans investissements dans le financement de l’intendance de ces aires protégées, nous n’atteindrons pas ces objectifs ni ne conserverons efficacement la nature à long terme. Au Nouveau-Brunswick, où le taux d’aires protégées est l’un des plus bas du pays (4,7 %), il est essentiel de fournir un soutien supplémentaire pour s’assurer que la province atteigne son objectif actuel de 10 % de protection, ainsi que d’éliminer tout obstacle à l’établissement et à l’intendance de nouvelles terres et de nouveaux océans protégés.
Le questionnaire des groupes demande aux candidats ce qu’ils feront pour investir dans la planification de la nature menée par les Autochtones au Nouveau-Brunswick, y compris l’établissement d’aires protégées et conservées par les Autochtones et leur gestion par des gardiens autochtones, les efforts dirigés par les Autochtones pour restaurer et gérer les espèces en péril et les habitats, et reconnaître et respecter les connaissances autochtones dans tous les aspects de la conservation de la nature.
Étant donné que les terres privées protégées peuvent accroître la connectivité entre les habitats et que, lorsqu’elles sont combinées aux aires protégées provinciales et fédérales, elles sont essentielles à l’expansion du paysage qui est géré pour la résilience des écosystèmes, surtout dans le contexte du changement climatique, les groupes ont aussi demandé aux candidats ce qu’ils feront pour habiliter et inciter les propriétaires fonciers du Nouveau-Brunswick à s’engager dans la défense et la gestion de la conservation et des aires protégées dans le cadre de la réponse communautaire au changement climatique.
As we head into another summer where travel will be limited, as COVID-19 restrictions are still in place, why not consider a staycation*? Or better yet an ecotourism staycation! Ecotourism is responsible travel to natural destinations that conserves natural areas, sustains the well-being of local people, and involves interpretation and education. It ensures support for wildlife and habitat protection, helps to increase the environmental ethics of visitors, and provides opportunities for small businesses.
Ecotourism and protected areas also go hand-in-hand. Protected areas benefit ecotourism businesses as they protect the habitats and wildlife that ecotourism businesses rely on. Ecotourism businesses in turn help protect the natural area by doing business in an environmentally responsible manner.
Click image to enlarge.
New Brunswick has a large diversity of natural areas. Many of these areas are protected and accessible to the public, giving you the perfect opportunity to spend some time outdoors! Several ecotourism businesses are also located in or near protected areas such as outfitters and guiding companies. If you plan to go to a protected area this summer, be sure to research what services are offered in the region that could enhance your visit. When you support small businesses that are conscious of their impact on the environment, you help support people and their communities, as well as protect nature so it can be enjoyed by all.
One of New Brunswick’s most popular natural areas is the Bay of Fundy. Many natural wonders can be found there, from awe-inspiring high tides to an abundance of marine wildlife. Several ecotourism businesses operate along the Fundy coast, making it an excellent destination for an eco-friendly staycation. Check out some of the ecotourism businesses profiled on the CPAWS NB website by clicking here.
Whether hiking, biking, camping, wildlife viewing, kayaking, canoeing or simply enjoying nature while staycationing in New Brunswick, remember to follow Leave No Trace Principles.
*When planning your travel be sure to check for and follow all public health rules in the regions you will be travelling from and to*
Banner Photo: Baymount Outdoor Adventures, Tia Fennelly Photography
Anika Smithson is the Conservation Campaigner for CPAWS NB. She holds a Masters of Community Development and is passionate about getting people outside. As a newcomer to the province, she is excited about exploring New Brunswick’s natural places.
Traditional Land of Wabanaki People/Fredericton – New Brunswick’s leading conservation groups are calling for new laws and regulations to protect wetlands in the wake of the tragic draining of the wetland at Ferris Street Forest and Wetland Nature Preserve in Fredericton.
In a letter sent to Ministers Mike Holland, Jill Green and Gary Crossman, the Nature Trust of New Brunswick, Conservation Council of New Brunswick, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society-NB Chapter, and Nature NB say the current regulatory regime fails to protect wetlands.
New Brunswick’s outdated approach was developed by policy-makers who lacked the evidence of how important wetlands are for protecting nature and our communities. It leaves wetlands at risk from business-as-usual practices—such as poorly planned subdivisions and ongoing industry activity, especially by forestry companies in the Crown forest—and the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss in New Brunswick.
The groups say it is time for a wetland protection law—not a wetland alteration permit system.
The letter outlines several recommendations to modernize wetland protection in the province, including:
DTI review all of its current WAWA permits with respect to impact on all wetlands larger than two hectares and release the results of that review;
All PSWs (Provincially Significant Wetlands) on Crown Land be designated as part of the areas protected under the 2020 Nature Legacy program and commit now to develop a plan to protect 25 per cent of N.B.’s nature over the next five years;
The Clean Water Act be reviewed, specifically for modernizing coastal areas protection by updating the 2002 provincial Coastal Areas Protection Policy and providing it weight, in law, a regulation promised in the 2018 NB WaterStrategy;
The 2014 Crown Forest Agreements be revised as soon as possible this year to adequately protect wetlands, streams and rivers on public land by increasing buffer zones and identifying no cut/no road construction in wetland areas and all sensitive areas, including the habitat for N.B. endangered species such as Atlantic salmon, the Canada warbler, wood turtles and others.
The Nature Trust of New Brunswick is a charitable land conservation organization established in 1987 dedicated to preserving the province’s ecologically significant landscapes. To date, the Nature Trust has conserved over 9,000 acres in 67 beautiful and diverse nature preserves in New Brunswick. Our mission is to conserve areas in New Brunswick that are ecologically significant, to establish nature preserves that remain protected forever, to steward the preserves through a network of volunteers and supporters, and to engage with the public on the importance of land conservation, New Brunswick’s natural heritage, biodiversity, and species at risk. Visit website.
Conservation Council of New Brunswick established in 1969 and remains the province’s leading public advocate for environmental protection. A member of the UN’s Global 500 Roll of Honour, we work to find practical solutions to help families and citizens, educators, governments and businesses protect the air we breathe, the water we drink, the precious marine ecosystem and the land, including the forest, that support us. Visit website.
Nature NB is a provincial conservation organization comprised of a dozen naturalist clubs from across the province and hundreds of members. Our mission is to celebrate, conserve and protect New Brunswick’s natural heritage through education, networking and collaboration. Visit website.
Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – NB Chapter is part of the nation-wide charity CPAWS, with a mission to work with governments, Indigenous peoples and communities to protect more of Canada’s publicly managed lands and water – for the benefit of both wildlife and people. We work cooperatively with all parts of society to find solutions to nature conservation challenges and to connect people to the nature that supports us all. CPAWS-NB has led public campaigns that have resulted in over 150,000 hectares of new protected areas in New Brunswick. Visit website.
For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Renata Woodward, CEO, Nature Trust of New Brunswick: renata.woodward@ntnb.org; 506-261-1260
Lois Corbett, Executive Director, Conservation Council of New Brunswick: lois.corbett@conservationcouncil.ca; 506-238-5292
Roberta Clowater, Executive Director, Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society – NB Chapter: rclowater@cpaws.org; 506-452-9902
Terre ancestrale des Abénaquis/Fredericton – Dans la foulée de l’assèchement des terres humides de Ferris Street Forest et de la réserve naturelle de Fredericton, d’importants groupes de conservation du Nouveau-Brunswick demandent l’adoption de nouvelles lois et de nouveaux règlements visant à protéger les terres humides.
Dans une lettre adressée aux ministres Mike Holland, Jill Green et Gary Crossman, la Fondation pour la protection des sites naturels du Nouveau-Brunswick, Conseil de conservation du Nouveau-Brunswick, Société pour la nature et les parcs du Canada – section Nouveau-Brunswick, et Nature NB affirment que la réglementation actuelle ne protège pas les terres humides.
L’approche dépassée du Nouveau-Brunswick a été développée par des décideurs qui ne possédaient pas les données probantes nécessaires sur l’importance des terres humides pour la protection de la nature et de nos collectivités. Elle fait que les terres humides demeurent menacées par les pratiques commerciales habituelles, comme les subdivisions mal planifiées et les activités industrielles, surtout celles des entreprises de foresterie dans les forêts de la Couronne, ainsi que par la double crise du changement climatique et de la disparition de la biodiversité du Nouveau-Brunswick.
Ces groupes déclarent qu’il est temps d’adopter une loi de protection des terres humides, et non pas un système d’autorisation d’altération des terres humides.
Les auteurs de la lettre font plusieurs recommandations pour moderniser la protection des terres humides de la province, dont :
un examen du ministère des Transports et de l’Infrastructure de toutes les autorisations délivrées en vertu du Règlement sur la modification des cours d’eau et des terres humides concernant les répercussions sur toutes les terres humides de plus de deux hectares, puis la publication des résultats de cet examen;
l’inclusion de tous les milieux humides d’importance provinciale des terres de la Couronne dans les zones protégées dans le cadre du programme du patrimoine naturel de 2020 et l’engagement de développer dès maintenant un plan visant à protéger 25 % de la nature du N.-B. au cours des cinq prochaines années;
la révision de la Loi sur l’assainissement de l’eau, plus particulièrement pour moderniser la protection des zones côtières en mettant à jour la politique sur la protection des zones côtières et en lui conférant un poids juridique, tel que promis dans la Stratégie de l’eau du N.-B. de 2018;
La révision, dès que possible, des ententes sur les forêts de la Couronne afin de protéger adéquatement les terres humides, les rivières et les fleuves des terres publiques en accroissant les zones tampon et en interdisant la coupe d’arbres/la construction de routes dans les terres humides et dans toutes les zones sensibles, dont l’habitat des espèces menacées du N.-B., comme le saumon atlantique, la paruline du Canada et la tortue des bois, entre autres;
La Fondation pour la protection des sites naturels du Nouveau-Brunswick est une organisation de conservation des terres créée en 1987 pour préserver les paysages de la province qui revêtent une importance écologique. À ce jour, elle a permis la conservation de plus de 9 000 acres de 67 réserves naturelles magnifiques et diverses du Nouveau-Brunswick. Notre mission est d’assurer la conservation des zones du Nouveau-Brunswick qui revêtent une importance écologique, de créer des réserves naturelles qui demeurent protégées à jamais, de veiller à l’intendance de ces réserves grâce à un réseau de bénévoles et de militants, et de mobiliser le public concernant l’importance de la conservation des terres, du patrimoine naturel du Nouveau‑Brunswick, de la biodiversité et des espèces menacées. Visitez notre site Web.
Fondé en 1969, le Conseil de conservation du Nouveau-Brunswick est, aujourd’hui encore, le principal défenseur public de la protection environnementale de la province. Membre du Club global 500 de l’ONU, il œuvre pour trouver des solutions pratiques afin d’aider les familles, les citoyens, les éducateurs, les gouvernements et les entreprises à protéger l’air que nous respirons et l’eau que nous buvons ainsi que l’écosystème marin, si précieux pour notre survie, et la terre, dont les forêts, sur laquelle repose notre existence même. Visitez notre site Web.
Nature NB est un organisme de conservation provincial composé de centaines de membres et d’une douzaine de clubs de naturalistes de toute la province. Nous avons pour mission d’honorer, de conserver et de protéger le patrimoine naturel du Nouveau‑Brunswick par l’éducation, le réseautage et la collaboration. Visitez notre site Web.
Société pour la nature et les parcs du Canada – section Nouveau-Brunswick, qui fait partie des SNAP nationales sans but lucratif, a pour mission de collaborer avec des gouvernements, des populations et des communautés autochtones pour protéger une plus grande partie des terres et des eaux publiques du Canada dans l’intérêt des gens et des espèces sauvages. Nous coopérons avec toutes les couches de la société pour trouver des solutions aux défis liés à la conservation de la nature et tisser des liens entre les personnes et la nature, qui soutient la vie de tous les êtres vivants. La SNAP-NB a dirigé des campagnes publiques qui ont fait en sorte que 150 000 hectares de terres supplémentaires sont devenus des aires protégées au Nouveau-Brunswick. Visitez notre site Web.
Pour plus d’information, ou pour obtenir une entrevue, veuillez communiquer avec :
Renata Woodward, PDG, Fondation pour la protection des sites naturels du Nouveau‑Brunswick : renata.woodward@ntnb.org; 506-261-1260
Lois Corbett, directrice exécutive, Conseil de conservation du Nouveau-Brunswick : lois.corbett@conservationcouncil.ca; 506-238-5292
Roberta Clowater, directrice exécutive, Société pour la nature et les parcs du Canada – section Nouveau-Brunswick: rclowater@cpaws.org; 506-452-9902
Vanessa Roy-McDougall, directrice exécutive, Nature NB : executive.director@naturenb.ca; 506-459-4209
With winter coming to an end and signs of spring all around us, New Brunswickers across the province are starting to spend more time outdoors. More people can be seen walking around their communities, and people are rediscovering their favorite parks. Now is the perfect time for teachers to be moving their classes outside! Whether it’s for a math, art, science or language lesson, there are many benefits to holding classes outside. Here are just three of the many benefits of outdoor learning:
Happiness and mental wellbeing: Consistent time spent in nature has been shown to improve happiness and reduce stress. When students are given more time to play and learn outside, it influences their overall mood, lowers anxiety, and reduces negative emotions1. The dynamic experience of learning outside in nature has also been shown to support students’ development of key life skills, such as conflict management, problem solving, self-esteem and interpersonal relationships2.
Nature can have many applications to lessons taught in the classroom. Science has a clear connection, as students learn about the natural world, and can see it first-hand. But all subjects, such as art, math, phys. Ed., and languages, can benefit from an interactive approach. Being outside can bring a subject to life, allowing students to better connect with and remember what is being taught.
Strong knowledge of and connection to nature: There is no better place to learn about the environment, then by going outside and exploring it for yourself. Education surrounding the environment, protecting nature, climate change and sustainability is becoming more important and common in our school systems. Creating a personal connection to nature is the best way to teach students to be environmental stewards, as it to show them the value of nature and that we can all be a part of helping the environment.
Now that you can see some of the ways that students benefit from learning while getting outside, here are five tips for enjoying the outdoors near your school while promoting your students’ learning.
Explore the potential of your schoolyard: You don’t need a big garden or forest nearby to get started. Try various places on the schoolyard to find one that works best. When you find a good location, you can use small carpets or plastic bags as seats, as these are very easy to move by students3.
Prioritize a quiet, shaded and wind-sheltered place: Choose a quiet place not far from the school where there is a little shade, especially for sunny days, and where there is not too much wind4.
Choose appropriate lessons: Some lessons are more easily done outdoors than others because of the necessary materials. It is important to have the right equipment to do the lesson outdoors. There are many opportunities to make links with the curriculum using elements that are already found on your schoolyard. Knowing your school yard and its environmental features can help you plan the best lessons to be taught outside5,6.
Establish clear regulations and guidelines: To ensure that lessons run smoothly in the outdoors, it is important for students to know what is expected of them. To achieve this, work with students to establish rules and expectations before going outside for lessons7.
Create a routine: When you go outside often with your students, they will become more accustomed to it and this will avoid behavioral discrepancies. The routine will allow you and your students to become more comfortable and confident and allow for your students to explore their creativity while working in and exploring nature8.
Many schools have already begun to integrate outdoor learning into their lesson plans. After you have seen first-hand the improved confidence and academic growth in your students, you might consider making outdoor learning a regular activity with an outdoor classroom facility, that can be used by the whole school.
With winter coming to an end and signs of spring all around us, New Brunswickers across the province are starting to spend more time outdoors. More people can be seen walking around their communities, and people are rediscovering their favorite parks. Now is the perfect time for teachers to be moving their classes outside! Whether it’s for a math, art, science or language lesson, there are many benefits to holding classes outside. Here are just three of the many benefits of outdoor learning:
Nature can have many applications to lessons taught in the classroom. Science has a clear connection, as students learn about the natural world, and can see it first-hand. But all subjects, such as art, math, phys. Ed., and languages, can benefit from an interactive approach. Being outside can bring a subject to life, allowing students to better connect with and remember what is being taught.
Now that you can see some of the ways that students benefit from learning while getting outside, here are five tips for enjoying the outdoors near your school while promoting your students’ learning.
Establish clear regulations and guidelines: To ensure that lessons run smoothly in the outdoors, it is important for students to know what is expected of them. To achieve this, work with students to establish rules and expectations before going outside for lessons7.