Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park |
|
|---|---|
| French: Parc marin du Saguenay–Saint-Laurent | |
|
IUCN Category II (National Park)
|
|
.JPG)
Mouth of the Saguenay River
|
|
 Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
Location in Canada
Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
Location in Quebec
|
|
| Location | Baie-Sainte-Catherine, Charlevoix-Est Regional County Municipality / Sacré-Coeur, and Tadoussac, La Haute-Côte-Nord Regional County Municipality, Quebec, Canada |
| Nearest city | La Baie, Tadoussac |
| Area | 1,246 km2 (481 sq mi) |
| Established | 8 June 1998 |
| Visitors | 1,089,459 (in 2007) |
| Governing body | Parks Canada, Sépaq |
The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is a special protected area in Canada. It is one of only three National Marine Conservation Areas in the country. This park is found where the Saguenay River meets the mighty Saint Lawrence River.
It was the very first national park in Quebec created to protect a water environment. Many whales come here because the mixing of the two rivers brings up lots of food. This includes a group of belugas, which are white whales. Because of all the whales, this park is a very popular spot for whale watching. Many companies offer tours in the area.
This marine park is managed by two different groups. Parks Canada, which is part of the Canadian government, works together with Sépaq, which is part of the Quebec government. They both help protect this amazing place.
Contents
Protecting the Saguenay Marine Park
The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park was created to keep its unique environment safe. It protects the waters where the Saguenay Fjord meets the Saint Lawrence Estuary. This area is very important for many types of marine life.
Why This Area is Special
The meeting of the Saguenay River and the Saint Lawrence River creates a rich environment. Cold, deep ocean water mixes with warmer river water. This mixing brings nutrients from the bottom to the surface. These nutrients are like food for tiny plants and animals called plankton.
Plankton is the main food source for many sea creatures. This makes the park a feeding ground for various marine animals. It is especially important for whales.
Home to Whales and Other Animals
The park is famous for its whales. Many different kinds of whales visit or live here. These include fin whales, minke whales, and humpback whales.
One of the most special residents is the beluga whale. A group of belugas lives in the Saint Lawrence Estuary year-round. This makes the park a vital place for their survival. You might also see seals, seabirds, and many types of fish.
Activities and Visiting the Park
The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park offers many ways to explore and learn. It's a great place for families and nature lovers.
Whale Watching Tours
Whale watching is one of the most popular activities. Boats take visitors out onto the water to see whales in their natural home. Guides on the boats share facts about the whales and the park.
It's important to choose responsible tour operators. They follow rules to keep the whales safe and undisturbed. This helps protect the animals while people enjoy seeing them.
Other Ways to Explore
You can also explore the park from the shore. There are many lookout points and trails along the coast. These spots offer amazing views of the water and sometimes even whales from a distance.
Kayaking and paddleboarding are also popular. These activities let you get closer to nature in a quiet way. Always follow safety rules and respect the wildlife.
Learning and Education
The park has visitor centers where you can learn more about the marine environment. These centers often have exhibits and activities. They teach about the animals, plants, and geology of the park.
Park rangers and naturalists are often available to answer questions. They help visitors understand why it's important to protect this special place.
History and Management
The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park was officially created on June 8, 1998. It was a big step for marine conservation in Quebec and Canada.
Joint Management
This park is unique because it is managed by two governments. Parks Canada is a federal agency, meaning it's part of the Canadian government. Sépaq is a provincial agency, meaning it's part of the Quebec government.
They work together to make decisions about the park. This includes protecting the wildlife, managing visitor activities, and educating the public. This joint effort helps ensure the park is well cared for.
Why Protection is Important
Protecting this area helps keep the marine ecosystem healthy. It ensures that whales, seals, and other animals have a safe place to live and find food. It also helps preserve the natural beauty of the Saguenay Fjord and Saint Lawrence Estuary for future generations.
See also
In Spanish: Parque nacional marino Saguenay-Saint-Laurent para niños
