Melanson Settlement National Historic Site of Canada

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2011 Special Events - Celebrating 100 years of Parks Canada

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News From "Acadie" Today

Acadian Aboiteau System Recognized by Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada

The Honourable Rose-May Poirier, Senator, Parks Canada and the community of Memramcook, NB, took part in the unveiling of a Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada plaque commemorating the national historic significance of the Acadian aboiteau system, on November 9, 2010.

“I am pleased to recognize the national historical significance of the aboiteau system, a technology adapted by the Acadian people that allowed the drainage of salt marshes for high-yield cultivation. This maritime technology played a pivotal role in the rise and evolution of the Acadian people during the 17th and 18th centuries,” said Senator Poirier.

The Acadian aboiteau system is the essential element of a technique to drain salt marshes. Throughout the colonial period, Acadians were the only people in North America to drain and cultivate a large portion of the rich salt marshes that lay below high tide mark. These exceptionally fertile farmlands were the key to the prosperity of the Acadian community up until the Deportation in 1755.

For more information, please visit Parks Canada's media room.

Related links:

The aboiteau system at Melanson Settlement National Historic Site
Historic Sites and Monuments Board of Canada