Feasibility Study for the Proposed Southern Strait of Georgia National Marine Conservation Area Reserve

What do National Marine Conservation Areas Mean for Aboriginal People?

© Parks Canada / Nicholas Irving

The southern Strait of Georgia, including the study area for the proposed national marine conservation area ( NMCA ) reserve, has supported Aboriginal cultures for thousands of years. Aboriginal peoples do not separate their relationship with the land and the sea, their spiritual beliefs, and their intimate knowledge of the environment. There is much we can learn from this.

Aboriginal people and Parks Canada often share common values focusing on conservation and respect for the environment. This is demonstrated through close collaboration with Aboriginal groups both in British Columbia and throughout Canada.

The traditional territories of several Aboriginal groups are found within the study area for the proposed NMCA reserve. An NMCA reserve could help protect and conserve the natural and cultural marine heritage of importance to Aboriginal people. At the same time, an NMCA reserve would provide for a continuation of traditional activities, including harvesting, by Aboriginal people with a historical relationship to the region.

Economic and employment opportunities related to the management and operation of an NMCA could provide other significant benefits. Aboriginal people also have opportunities to play a significant role in the long term planning, cooperative management and decision-making process of an NMCA .

Parks Canada is working directly with Aboriginal groups to listen and share information about the study area. To find out more, please contact us .