Overall objective: To identify sensitive marine and coastal areas in the Bay of Fundy, including recommendations on management options . The term "sensitive" is defined broadly, including areas of ecologically sensitive marine and coastal environments, areas of high biodiversity, areas of ecological or scientific significance, or areas of community value.
Purpose:
There are many current and future pressures on the Bay of Fundy ecosystem, including
coastal developments, fishing, aquaculture, rockweed harvesting, increased habitat
destruction, and an increase in pollutants, to name a few. Certain areas of
the Bay of Fundy may be considered particularly important and fragile in the
face of these pressures, requiring special attention. It is essential, therefore,
to identify "sensitive" areas, and to recommend appropriate management
actions to protect these areas, before serious problems occur. Tying all available
information together will help identify key areas, management options and appropriate
tools. It is hoped the information gained through this effort will assist the
variety of community-based and government management initiatives in the Bay
of Fundy. For example, this effort will assist DFO in the effort to identify
an effective system of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Not all the sites identified
will fit within an MPA system plan as some will require protection under other
conservation legislation. This initiative is the first step to build the collective
information base required to help support these decisions.
How you can participate: This is an open invitation for fishing organizations,
community groups, academic and research institutions, First Nations, NGOs, other
government departments and scientists to participate in identifying marine sensitive
areas. Sensitive area identification "workshops"with your organization
or written submissions are the key means of collecting this information.
For more information on this initiative, or if you are interested in holding a workshop of your own, please contact:
Maria-Ines
Buzeta, Oceans Biologist
Department of Fisheries and Oceans
Oceans and Environment Branch, Bay of Fundy
Biological Station, 531 Brandy Cove Road
St. Andrews, NB E5B 2L9
Ph (506) 529- 8854/5936, Fx (506) 529-5862