Fisheries and Oceans Canada
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Shediac Valley Area of Interest
About the AOI
The Shediac Valley Area of Interest (AOI) is an area rich in biodiversity in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence. It is located east of New Brunswick and north-west of Prince Edward Island and covers an area of 1530 km². The area plays an important role in various biological functions (feeding, refuge, nursery and spawning) for a variety of fish species including many commercial species. In particular, it is used by Atlantic Cod particularly for summer feeding and as a nursery ground. Other species of conservation interest are also in the area, such as American Plaice and Winter Skate. Protection of this area will contribute to the survival and recovery of healthy and abundant aquatic resources.
The Shediac Valley Area of Interest (AOI) is recognized as having high productivity with circular currents (gyres) located near the north and south borders. Water depths in the Area of Interest range from 24 to 51 metres.
Although a portion of the Shediac Valley is closed to groundfish fisheries, the closure is renewed on a yearly basis by the Department. Furthermore, the closure does not protect the site from other potential activities. A Marine Protected Area designation would ensure longer term protection from a wide variety of human activities. The Shediac Valley Area is a candidate Health of the Oceans Marine Protected Area (MPA), which would provide comprehensive and long-term management and protection for this area rich in biodiversity.
GOVERNMENT OF CANADA ANNOUNCES PROGRESS ON MARINE PROTECTION
Minister Ashfield announces three new Areas of Interest
"Our government remains committed to working with stakeholders and other levels of government to ensure the health of our oceans and World Oceans Day is a time to affirm the importance of our oceans to Canadians," said Minister Ashfield. "The identification of these three new Areas of Interest demonstrates not only our commitment to conservation and protection, but also our commitment to ensuring that ocean resources thrive for the benefit of our communities."
Steps to Designation
The MPA designation process will include public input to determine the costs and benefits of MPA designation. The AOI will undergo a detailed biophysical and socio-economic evaluation and public consultations before a decision is made to formally designate it as a Marine Protected Area. Open, inclusive consultation will improve understanding of the designation process and clarify the roles and opportunities to participate for all sectors. Consultation with First Nations, stakeholders, industry and interested groups will also provide opportunities to contribute to the evaluation and analysis of impacts of MPA designation, establishment of appropriate conservation and management objectives, and development of the regulatory package.
For more information contact
Mireille Chiasson
Senior Oceans Biologist, Oceans Program
Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Gulf Region
Telephone: 506-851-7441
mireille.chiasson@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
