Marine conservation network sites for the Scotian Shelf-Bay of Fundy Bioregion

A marine conservation network plan has been created for the Scotian Shelf-Bay of Fundy Bioregion. Use our interactive map below to explore the existing and proposed sites that make up the conservation network.

Feedback will be considered to finalize a marine conservation network plan for the bioregion. This conservation network plan is an important part of marine spatial planning in the region and will be periodically updated to guide regional spatial marine conservation work for years to come.

In this section

• Marine conservation network map
• Legend
• How to use the map
• Data
• Proposed conservation sites
• Marine conservation network development
• Activities in conservation areas
• Contact us for help
• Related information

Marine conservation network map

This map shows existing and proposed conservation sites in the bioregion, which taken together form the marine conservation network plan. The proposed conservation network sites are organized into 2 tiers:

• Tier 1 sites are a higher priority for implementation and are among the sites that could be selected for advancement by 2030. These sites have high conservation value based on the confirmed presence of key ecological features. The lead federal agency is specified for all tier 1 sites.
• Tier 2 sites are important to create a representative conservation network but will not be considered for advancement by 2030. These sites require more research and information on ecological features and human uses before implementation.

Other sites have also been identified through network planning. These are not considered part of the conservation network plan at this time.

Legend

Existing or proposed conservation areas are found within the coloured areas. The map shows:

• Existing sites, including Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and marine refuges
• Areas of Interest (AOIs)
• Proposed sites
• Tier 1 conservation sites and their lead agency
• Tier 2 conservation sites

Proposed conservation sites

Marine conservation network development

A marine conservation network is made up of many individual conservation areas, including Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) and Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs).

Creating a well thought out bioregional network plan will result in better protection for marine species, habitats, and ecosystems. Networks support conservation over the long term, while also minimizing impacts on ocean users. Learn more about the approach used for creating the marine conservation network plan.

Activities in conservation areas

Every conservation area (MPA or OECM) is unique. The management measures in each new site depend on site-specific conservation objectives. These will be determined through a separate establishment process with additional in-depth consultation.

In 2019, the MPA Protection Standard was developed to provide greater consistency and clarity on prohibited activities in federal MPAs. The standard prohibits oil and gas exploration and exploitation, mining, dumping, and bottom trawling in all new federal MPAs. There is more flexibility with OECMs. Activities are assessed on a case-by-case basis to ensure effective biodiversity conservation.

Low-impact activities are often compatible with MPAs and OECMs. For example, sustainable coastal fisheries using fixed-gears (e.g., lobster) and ecotourism activities (e.g., kayaking, whale watching) are usually permitted in coastal conservation areas. Food, Social and Ceremonial (FSC) fishing by First Nations and Indigenous communities is also generally permitted.

Contact us for help

Marine Planning and Conservation Program
Fisheries and Oceans Canada
MaritimesMPAs@dfo-mpo.gc.ca

Related information

• Marine conservation networks
• Marine Protected Areas (MPAs)
• Marine refuges across Canada
• Marine spatial planning