This remarkable region is home to a third of the world's beluga whales and is a vital stronghold for polar bears. But Hudson's Bay is losing ice faster than any other part of the arctic-threatening wildlife, cultures, and communications that depend on the land and sea.
Federal protection could help secure a future where Arctic species thrive, local livelihoods are supported, and the environment are kept in check.
Let's protect Canada’s great inland sea - for wildlife, people, and future generations.
Hudson Bay—known locally as Kangiqsualuk ilua, Kischekumee, Tasiujaqiuaqmiut and other Indigenous names —is one of the most ecologically and culturally significant marine regions in Canada. It lies at the end of a vast watershed that stretches from the Rocky Mountains in the west to Lake of the Woods in the east and as far south as Fargo, North Dakota. These waters flow into Lake Winnipeg, travel north through the Nelson River, and eventually empty into Hudson Bay.
This great inland sea is:
- Home to the largest concentration of beluga whales in Canada, with about 55,000 belugas migrating to the Churchill, Nelson, and Seal rivers each summer to moult, calve, feed, and seek protection from predators. This is one-third of the global population.
- Habitat for hundreds of polar bears that roam its ice-covered shoreline for most of the year, hunting seals.
- A vital nesting area for over 170 bird species along its rocky coast.
- Vital to the cultures of Inuit, Dene, Cree, and Métis peoples
- An ecotourism hotspot and economic lifeline for northern communities
Take Action
Protect Hudson Bay
Tell Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew to work with the federal government to establish the Western Hudson Bay NMCA.
The Bay
An Uncertain Future
But Hudson Bay’s future is at risk.
Melting sea ice is reshaping ecosystems; longer ice-free periods due to climate change are increasing vulnerabilities for wildlife, including opportunities for:
- More ship traffic leading to an increase in ocean noise and vehicle collisions.
- Oil and gas exploration.
- New industrial developments.
If we fail to plan for these possible futures, we risk losing the species, ecosystems, and ways of life that depend on Hudson Bay.
A National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA) is one way to protect this vital region — supporting wildlife, healthy ecosystems, and local communities for generations to come.
A National Marine Conservation Area: A Solution Rooted in Respect
Canada has an opportunity to safeguard Hudson Bay through the creation of a National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA) in Western Hudson Bay. Parks Canada has identified this area as a priority for marine protection.
National Marine Conservation Area Quick Facts:
- Protects marine ecosystems while supporting sustainable use.
- Creates jobs in eco-tourism, conservation, and research.
- Could prohibit waste disposal, bottom trawling, oil extraction, and mining exploration.
- Protects large areas of important marine habitats (final boundaries decided through community and stakeholder consultations).
What’s Next? A Feasibility Study
Before a National Marine Conservation Area can be created, Parks Canada must determine whether protection is both feasible and desirable. This involves a comprehensive feasibility assessment in collaboration with:
- Indigenous rights holders and partners
- Local communities and stakeholders
- The provincial government
- Federal departments and agencies
The study considers:
- Indigenous collaborative governance and stewardship
- Cultural and ecological significance
- Impacts on biodiversity and endangered species
- Connectivity with other protected areas
- Opportunities for sustainable development and education
If the area is deemed suitable, negotiations begin to officially establish the NMCA.
There are several other National Marine Conservation Areas in development, such as those in the high Arctic and the St. Lawrence Estuary, that balances conservation with community benefits.
It’s time to bring that same vision to Hudson Bay.
Wildlife
Hudson Bay is home to some of the world’s largest concentrations of beluga whales and polar bears. During the summer, belugas migrate to estuaries along the Churchill, Nelson, and Seal Rivers to calve, moult, and feed, while polar bears roam the sea ice during the colder months. Over 170 bird species nest in the region’s coastal habitat.
Read this Oceans North report to learn more about why protecting this region is critical for biodiversity and local communities.
Resources
About CPAWS’ Marine Conservation Work
CPAWS has been a national leader in marine protection for over 20 years. We work alongside Indigenous partners and local communities to advocate for stronger, better-connected marine protected areas that respect cultural values and protect ecosystems.
Canada has committed to protecting 30% of its ocean by 2030. CPAWS is advocating for even more—because we believe at least 50% of the ocean should be protected to ensure long-term resilience in the face of climate change.
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