How is the Gitxaała Nation involved in marine conservation?

The Gitxaała Nation, located south of Prince Rupert, B.C., has jointly established a 436-square-kilometre marine refuge near Banks Island with the federal government. This refuge will protect important habitats like corals, kelp forests, and seagrass that are crucial for rockfish.

What is the significance of these new marine refuges?

The establishment of these three marine refuges is part of a broader initiative to increase Indigenous-led marine conservation efforts on the West Coast while also advancing reconciliation. The refuges will help protect the habitats of various marine species that are important for the food security and cultural practices of the local Indigenous communities.

Home / Environment / Indigenous-Led Marine Refuges Established on B.C.'s North Coast

Indigenous-Led Marine Refuges Established on B.C.'s North Coast

Q: What is the Haida Nation doing to protect marine habitats?

The Haida Nation has worked for almost two decades on leading local marine planning efforts, and they have now formally established two marine refuge areas in the waters near the Haida Gwaii islands. These refuges will protect the habitat of several species of salmon and seabirds, as well as improve the well-being of herring, harbour seals, and other animals.

18 Oct

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Summary

Two marine refuges created near Haida Gwaii islands
Third refuge established near Banks Island by Gitxaała Nation
Refuges protect salmon, seabirds, herring, and other marine life

In a significant move for marine conservation, the federal government and two Indigenous nations have jointly established three new marine refuges along the North Coast of British Columbia as of October 18, 2025.

The Haida Nation, in partnership with the federal Fisheries Department, has formally created two marine refuge areas in the waters near the Haida Gwaii islands. These refuges, spanning almost 30 square kilometers, will protect the habitats of several species of salmon and seabirds, as well as improve the well-being of herring, harbor seals, and other marine life.

Separately, the Gitxaała Nation, located south of Prince Rupert, has also worked with the government to establish a 436-square-kilometer marine refuge near Banks Island. This refuge will safeguard important ecosystems like corals, kelp forests, and seagrass that are crucial habitats for rockfish.