Quebec and the federal government join forces to preserve the waterways encircling Anticosti Island through the introduction of a novel marine park.

The provincial and federal governments have committed to protecting a stretch of the Gulf of St. Lawrence near the island with the creation of a marine park. (Radio-Canada)

 

  On Friday, federal and provincial officials jointly committed to establishing a marine park aimed at safeguarding the waterways surrounding Quebec's Anticosti Island. 

The announcement was made by Benoit Charette, Quebec's environment minister, during a morning news conference on Anticosti Island. His federal counterpart, Steven Guilbeault, participated virtually.

"Quebec is steadfast in its dedication to preserving its distinctive natural heritage, including Anticosti, heralded as one of our most cherished national treasures," stated Charette in a press release.

In September, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) accorded the island World Heritage Site status. Known for its rocky terrain, Anticosti Island harbors the most comprehensive fossil record of marine life dating back between 447 and 437 million years ago.

• Quebec's Anticosti Island named UNESCO World Heritage Site

The federal government has identified the preliminary area earmarked for a marine park as the expanse between Anticosti Island and the Mingan Archipelago federal park reserve.

As part of the announcement, the Quebec government said it would spend $16 million to improve the facilities on the island belonging to the Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (SÉPAQ), Quebec's provincial parks agency, as well as the roadways there.

Before commencing the project, both levels of government intend to engage in consultations with local First Nations, municipal, and regional authorities. The inclusion of public consultations is also anticipated.