Six First Nations and Canadian Governments Establish Joint Marine Conservation Area on Central Coast

Event summary

  • Six First Nations and Canadian governments signed an agreement on May 22, 2026, to establish the Mia-yaltwa Ha'lidzogm hoon National Marine Conservation Area Reserve (NMCAR) and Indigenous Protected and Conserved Area (IPCA) on the Central Coast of British Columbia.
  • The protected area, named 'Realm of the Salmon, Home of the Salmon,' covers a biodiversity hotspot adjacent to the Great Bear Rainforest, supporting species like salmon, eulachon, herring, and marine mammals.
  • The NMCAR and IPCA share the same footprint and will be managed collaboratively through a joint management board and advisory committee.
  • Fisheries and Oceans Canada retains regulatory authority within the NMCAR, including managing fisheries and enforcing regulations.
  • The establishment is part of the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence initiative and aligns with Canada's goal to conserve 30% of marine and coastal waters by 2030.

The big picture

The establishment of Mia-yaltwa Ha'lidzogm hoon represents a significant step in Indigenous-led marine conservation, combining traditional stewardship with modern governance structures. This initiative aligns with broader global trends toward collaborative conservation models and underscores the growing recognition of Indigenous rights in environmental management. The success of this model could set a precedent for similar efforts in other biodiverse regions.

What we're watching

Collaborative Governance
The effectiveness of the collaborative management board and advisory committee in balancing conservation goals with economic activities like fishing and tourism.
Regulatory Compliance
How Fisheries and Oceans Canada's retained regulatory authority will interact with the collaborative management structure.
Economic Impact
The pace at which the NMCAR will support sustainable economic activities while ensuring long-term ecological health.