The ChariTree Foundation is encouraged by a major step forward in protecting the waters of the Great Bear Sea.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Bowen Island, BC — May 22, 2026 — Six First Nations along the Central Coast, together with the governments of Canada and British Columbia, have signed an agreement to advance the creation of a new National Marine Conservation Area Reserve beside the world-renowned Great Bear Rainforest.
Known as Mia-yaltwa Ha’lidzogm hoon — “Realm of the Salmon” — the proposed protected area reflects generations of Indigenous stewardship and leadership by the Wuikinuxv, Nuxalk, Kitasoo Xai’xais, Heiltsuk, Gitxaała, and Gitga’at Nations.
These waters support rich marine ecosystems, including salmon, herring, eulachon, whales, sea otters, kelp forests, and deep-sea coral reefs, while also sustaining coastal communities, fisheries, and cultural traditions.
“Protecting places like the Great Bear Sea is about more than conservation — it’s about ensuring that children and future generations inherit healthy oceans, thriving wildlife, and resilient coastal communities,” said Andrea Koehle Jones, Executive Director, author, and children’s environmental education advocate at The ChariTree Foundation. “The decisions we make today will shape the future of these waters for generations.”
Parks Canada officials say the reserve, once established, could protect up to 6,700 square kilometres of coastal waters — an area larger than Prince Edward Island — within one of the world’s richest marine ecosystems.
The federal government has also committed significant funding to support the initiative. Budget 2024 proposed $167.5 million for the reserve, including $42.9 million for infrastructure and assets, and $10.7 million annually for ongoing support.
Protecting these habitats is an important step toward ensuring healthy oceans, resilient coastal economies, and thriving marine life for future generations.
About The ChariTree Foundation
The ChariTree Foundation is a Canadian registered charity and United Nations Climate Observer organization based on a tiny island off the coast of Vancouver, British Columbia. The foundation supports environmental education and ocean conservation initiatives that connect children to nature through tree planting, marine stewardship, climate awareness, and outdoor learning programs in communities around the world.