Indigenous Nations Lead New Marine Refuges to Protect Ocean Life

Canada has designated three new marine refuges along its North Coast, co-managed with Indigenous Nations to protect vital ocean habitats and strengthen reconciliation efforts.

“These refuges will ensure future generations are able to continue to enjoy the bounties of the ocean,” said Gaagwiis Jason Alsop, president of the Haida Nation Council.

The two Haida Gwaii sites cover almost 30 square kilometres, while the Gitxaała refuge near Banks Island spans 436 square kilometres of coral, kelp and seagrass ecosystems. Together they safeguard crucial habitats for salmon, seabirds, rockfish and seals, and ban commercial and recreational trapping. The initiative reflects nearly two decades of Indigenous-led marine planning and represents a milestone in shared ocean stewardship.