St. Lawrence River Freshwater Ecosystem Initiative overview
The St. Lawrence River system, which includes the Great Lakes, is one of the largest in the world. Ranking third largest in North America after the Mississippi and Mackenzie River systems, the St. Lawrence drains more than 25% of the world's freshwater reserves and shapes the environmental processes of the North American continent.
St. Lawrence Action Plan: History
In 1988, the governments of Quebec and Canada along with different stakeholders signed the St. Lawrence Action Plan (SLAP) and joined forces in this initiative to protect and enhance the St. Lawrence and its riches.
Their efforts have contributed to:
- Reducing pollution
- conserving, restoring, and developing habitats for plants and animals
- developing knowledge and helping decision-makers to make better decision
- encouraging sustainable navigation practices
- raising awareness and promoting community involvement
Previous phases: 30 years already!
Phase I (from 1988 to 1993)
Significant progress was made during the first phase of SLAP. For example, more than 5,000 hectares of natural habitat were protected, several threatened or vulnerable species were identified, the 50 most polluting industries in Quebec reduced their toxic liquid discharges by 74%, environmental technologies were developed and extensive data collection on the St. Lawrence was carried out. In addition, during this five-year period, citizens' committees were created, conferences were organized and numerous media reports were seen and heard. All of this has raised awareness among Quebecers of the importance of caring for the St. Lawrence.
Phase II (from 1993 to 1998)
During the second phase of SLAP, some 2,000 hectares of additional natural habitat were protected, toxic liquid discharges were reduced by 90%, the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park was created, several studies were carried out, a Biodiversity Portrait of the St. Lawrence was drawn up, a plan to protect the beluga whale was developed, pollution of agricultural origin was identified and the effect of poor water quality on human health was assessed. Contribution programs have also been set up to facilitate community involvement and action.
Phase III (from 1998 to 2003)
The third phase of SLAP was marked by the growing involvement of riverside communities in efforts to conserve the St. Lawrence. On the economic front, farmers modified their practices by complying with various regulations, notably the Agricultural Operations Regulation. Shipping companies have made efforts to reduce the pollution generated by commercial and recreational shipping, and industries have developed technologies that consume less energy and pollute less.
Parks, ecological reserves and wildlife sanctuaries have also been created or expanded. In addition, with the participation of non-governmental organizations (NGOs), measures have been taken to protect nearly 105,000 hectares of natural environments. An integrated dredging and sediment management plan and a Sustainable Navigation Strategy have been created.
Phase IV (from 2005 to 2010)
Phase IV of SLAP was a continuation of previous actions. Scientists and experts continued their search for knowledge and solutions to clean up the St. Lawrence and protect its ecosystems. In fact, this phase was marked by a focus on sustainable development, which paved the way for the implementation of integrated management of the St. Lawrence. In other words, decision-makers, St. Lawrence users and citizens must now discuss and collaborate at all times to make the best possible decisions concerning the river, always for the benefit of present and future generations.
For example, a voluntary speed reduction program was launched between Sorel and Varennes to reduce the effect of ship-generated waves on shoreline erosion. Eco-Marina, an environmental certification program, was also created to improve the environmental management of marinas. Projects to promote access to the St. Lawrence and its riches have been set up, and projects to promote habitat health in agricultural areas have been carried out.
Funding to improve the St. Lawrence ecosystem
The Community Interaction Program supports the implementation of community projects aimed at conserving the biodiversity of the St. Lawrence, promoting the sustainability of its uses and improving its ecosystem and water quality.
With the St. Lawrence Action Plan (SLAP 2011-2026), Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) and the ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques du Québec (MELCC) administer and implement this program.
Contact us
St. Lawrence River Action Plan Coordination Office
801-1550 D’Estimauville Avenue
Quebec City QC
G1J 0C3
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