Comuzzi, John Baird, Prime Minister Stephen Harper give thumbs up to new Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area.

November 2, 2007... Richard Harvey, Mayor Township of Nipigon said the announcement  was a great day for Nipigon, indeed for the whole North shore of Lake Superior as Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Minister John Baird came to Nipigon to announce the formation of the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area.  Simply having a Prime Minister Visit Nipigon (this is the first time it has happened) was historic in itself, but the announcement is very important.  Being a National Marine conservation area gives the area instant international recognition as an international Eco tourism destination.
Not only was the Conservation area announced but The Prime Minister also announce $20 million in Infrastructure funding and an additional $16 million for operating expenses.  This clearly signals the Federal Governments commitment to this project and addressing the environmental concerns facing our country.  this day was over 10 years in the making with many individuals and organizations lobbying for this creation.  In the end the final push came from MP Joe Comuzzi who has demonstrated his love for this region and his commitment to the concerns of our great lake.

What a joy it was to see the Prime minister meeting the children and seniors of our community.  Taking the time out of the planned agenda to show genuine interest in North Western Ontario and the people who live here.  Many residents commented that they were "blown away" by how accessible he made himself and how personable he was with everyone.  This was truly a great day for all. 

Paul Anthony Pepe,  Manager - Tourism Thunder Bay  said, "The National Marine Conservation Area will increase awareness of the region as a destination for unique visitor experiences.  For Thunder Bay and the Northshore communities, the Lake is a spectacular asset on our doorstep and we have only begun to scratch the surface with regards to marketing it.  The designation will make the area a required destination for outdoor experience seekers, including hikers, kayakers,campers, anglers, RV and motorcycle touring travellers and will help build the tourism experience to the next level in the region."

 (Click To View Larger Map )

Enlarged map will show more detail features:
       Lake Superior Shoal
       Bateau Rock
       Slate Islands
       Communities abuting the NMCA

An historic agreement has been signed by the Governments of Canada and Ontario to establish the largest freshwater reserve in the world, on the largest lake in the world – Lake Superior. This will be Canada’s first National Marine Conservation Area, protecting 1 million hectares of pristine islands, rugged coast, and crystal-clear water. This protection is excellent news for the species that inhabit this area, such as peregrine falcons, loons, woodland caribou, trout and pickerel.

WWF-Canada extended the full international support of the WWF global network to the governments of Canada and Ontario for signing an agreement to establish the largest freshwater reserve in the world. One million hectares of western Lake Superior will become Canada’s first National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA).

“This is indeed an important day for conservation in Canada and a long-awaited victory for the residents of the North Shore,” said Mike Russill, President and CEO of WWF-Canada

His Royal Highness the Duke of Edinburgh, President Emeritus of WWF-International, said “I believe that all the people living in the area, particularly those who served as an advisory group to help achieve the protection of this immense area, have every reason to feel very proud of their invaluable contribution to the future of Canada and all its citizens.”

Prince Philip has been closely involved and monitoring the progress of negotiations for almost ten years now, urging protection through two press conferences in Canada, and awarding certificates of appreciation to local citizens who worked so hard to make today’s announcement possible.

Special from Lake Superior News Bureau