October 17, 2025   

Joint news release: Haida Nation | Fisheries and Oceans Canada

Haida Gwaii, B.C. - Today, the President of the Haida Nation, Gaagwiis Jason Alsop, and the Minister of Fisheries, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, formally announced two marine refuges on Haida Gwaii: Gaw aahlii and Xaana Kaahlii. The marine refuges will protect multiple species of salmon, sea birds and their habitat, and other important species such as herring and harbour seals.

Building upon nearly two decades of Haida Nation-led marine planning, the joint recognition of the Gaw Kaahlii and Xaana Kaahlii Marine Refuges complements the ongoing implementation of the Haida Gwaii Marine Plan and the objectives outlined in the Northern Shelf Bioregion Marine Protected Area (MPA) Network Action Plan. The marine refuges are two of three new sites established under the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence initiative to advance reconciliation and Indigenous-led marine conservation on the west coast of Canada.

Gaw Kaahlii and Xaana Kaahlii Marine Refuges will be co-managed by Council of the Haida Nation (CHN) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). They protect areas of cultural and ecological significance, and support conservation and local food security on Haida Gwaii.

Recognition of the Gaw Kaahlii and Xaana Kaahlii Marine Refuges reflects Canada's commitment to marine conservation and brings the Government of Canada closer to achieving its goal of protecting 30 per cent of marine and coastal areas by 2030.