December 12, 2025
Dear Santa,
We’ve been really good this year. We worked on so many conservation projects, made new friends, hiked more trails than we can count, and we only occasionally used the good scissors for crafts. (Sorry.)
So… we were hoping you could help us out with just one thing on our holiday wish list this year.
Have you heard about a National Marine Conservation Area?
There’s this enormous, magical stretch of ocean called Western Hudson Bay—basically right next door to you! But things are changing fast. The Port of Churchill is gearing up for a substantial expansion through the Churchill Port Plus project, which means more ships, more noise, more collisions, and as a result, more risks for the animals who call it home.
And Santa… it’s full of your neighbours! Tens of thousands of beluga whales, world-famous polar bears, and flocks of migratory birds who stop in on their way between continents.
All we’re asking for this Christmas is a National Marine Conservation Area in Western Hudson Bay to keep those animals safe—now and for generations.
Why an NMCA?
Think of it like a marine version of the “Nice List,” but wayyyy more official.
NMCAs are designed by working with local and regional communities, Indigenous Nations, and stakeholders to protect key areas while still allowing important activities like shipping, tourism, research, and fishing. They don’t shut things down—they make sure activities happen responsibly.
They can help protect wildlife through:
- Slower ship speeds
- Quieter travel routes
- Better monitoring
- Rules that keep sensitive areas safe
- Set lanes for shipping to keep habitats clear of boats
A Few Questions for You, Santa
Before we unwrap an NMCA, the federal government needs to launch and work with everyone to complete a feasibility study. Since you’ve got a whole workshop of genius elves, maybe you can help to answer some challenging questions like:
- How do we balance all the different interests in the region?
- How do we protect wildlife?
- Which areas need the most protection?
- What governance structures would work best?
- What economic opportunities could come from marine protection?
What Now?
The province is ready. The Town of Churchill is ready. Regional Indigenous communities are being engaged.
If we don’t act now, the Bay will see more ships, more noise, more collisions with wildlife, and more disruption at a time when the area’s treasured species are already facing incredible stress.
Belugas can’t speak in cabinet meetings. Polar bears can’t write letters. Migratory birds can’t ask for quieter, cleaner shorelines.
But we can.
Santa, please help us get an NMCA for Christmas. Not just for us—but for every creature who depends on Hudson Bay.
Love,
The CPAWS Manitoba Team
P.S. If we don’t act on climate change soon, there may not be any snow left at the North Pole. And honestly, Santa, that would really mess up your brand.
About CPAWS
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.
Learn more about our national ocean protection work here.
About Western Hudson Bay
Western Hudson Bay is a crucial wildlife habitat, home to large populations of polar bears, beluga whales, and birds. CPAWS Manitoba is advocating for a National Marine Conservation Area (NMCA) in the region to protect these species and their environment, while securing cherished regional cultures, ways of life for Indigenous peoples, and opportunities for sustainable livelihoods. NMCAs limit harmful activities like deep sea drilling and trawling, while allowing things like sustainable tourism and fishing. Establishing an NMCA in Hudson Bay would safeguard wildlife, protect local ways of life and promote long-term economic opportunities.
Learn more and take action here.