Good News Around Oceans Day – Marine Protected Areas in the Oceans around New Brunswick

On June 6 this week, CPAWS issued a challenge to the federal government to create 12 new marine protected areas by the end of 2012, in preparation for Oceans Day on June 8.  In New Brunswick, this includes areas in the internationally important Bay of Fundy.  We believe there is a need to ensure protection into the future for the values being highlighted by the Bay of Fundy’s candidacy as one of the New 7 Natural Wonders of Nature.  You can read our news release and backgrounder here – http://cpaws.org/news/12-new-marine-protected-areas-by-2012

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On Oceans Day, CPAWS welcomed the announcement by Keith Ashfield, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, of an Area of Interest for a new Marine Protected Area in Shediac Valley in the Northumberland Strait off New Brunswick`s northeast coast.  The area is an important spawning and nursery area for Atlantic cod and yellowtail flounder and provides critical habitat for an endangered population of winter skate.  The area is of prime importance for a sustainable lobster fishery.  Next steps include further scientific study and public consultation.  Find out more information about the candidate Shediac Valley MPA here: English – http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/media/back-fiche/2011/hq-ac10b-eng.htm; French – http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/media/back-fiche/2011/hq-ac10b-fra.htm