Home / Environment / New Nature Reserve Protects Newfoundland Watershed
New Nature Reserve Protects Newfoundland Watershed
28 Aug
Summary
- A new 16-square-kilometre nature reserve is established near Millertown, Newfoundland.
- Partnership includes Nature Conservancy of Canada, federal government, and Teck Resources.
- Funds totaling $2.18 million were contributed by government and mining company.
A new 16-square-kilometre nature reserve has been established in central Newfoundland, an area encompassing land near Millertown, Beothuk Lake, Rushy Pond, and a section of the Exploits River. This conservation effort is a result of a partnership between the Nature Conservancy of Canada, the federal government, and mining company Teck Resources.
The primary goal of the Beothuk Lake Nature Reserve is to protect crucial environmental elements, including the Exploits River watershed, fish habitats, and wetlands. This initiative is expected to enhance drinking water security and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.
The land for the reserve was purchased for $1.3 million. The federal government contributed $180,000, and Teck Resources provided $2 million towards the project. Teck Resources, which previously operated a copper and zinc mine nearby from 2007 to 2015, is recognized for its role in supporting conservation outcomes.
Community consultations are scheduled to begin, with an announcement made prior to these discussions. While certain activities like camping and wood cutting will be restricted, recreational pursuits such as hunting, fishing, and ATV use will still be permitted. Future management plans will be developed through ongoing collaboration with stakeholders and Indigenous partners.
