Anyone wanting information should contact CCOBS. They have proof and are able to explain what is happening – don’t rely on those who can’t back up their position. https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565489111834
Concerned Citizens of Baynes Sound
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Analysis: Why Baynes Sound/Lambert Channel should Be Designated as a Marine Protected Area (MPA)
Based on the Marine Protected Area (MPA) designation process under the Oceans Act, Baynes Sound meets the criteria for protection due to its ecological, social, cultural, and economic significance, as well as the pressing threats it faces. Here’s a structured analysis of why Baynes Sound should be prioritized for MPA designation:
1. Selection of Baynes Sound as an Area of Interest (AOI)
MPAs are created through a bioregional network process, where areas with high ecological importance and vulnerability are identified. Baynes Sound qualifies due to its:
Key Biodiversity Area (KBA #11073) designation.
Ecologically and Biologically Significant Area (EBSA) classification by Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO). 3 of 7 named EBSA areas on the east coast of Vancouver Island are in Baynes Sound.
Important Bird Area (IBA #BC057) status, supporting over 10,000 migratory birds.
High-value herring spawning and rearing habitat, producing one-third of BC’s herring stock. Rich marine biodiversity, including critical habitats for salmon, seabirds, shellfish, and marine mammals.
Cultural significance to the K’ómoks First Nation, with the inclusion of Jáji7em & Kw’ulh (Sandy Island) Marine Provincial Park.
Production of over half of BC shellfish; a food supply which is dependent on a healthy ecosystem.
Conclusion: Baynes Sound is ecologically and culturally significant, meeting the requirements for AOI selection.
2. Ecological, Social, Cultural, and Economic Overview
Before MPA designation, an area undergoes a comprehensive assessment, incorporating scientific data, local and Indigenous knowledge, and stakeholder input.
Ecological/Biophysical Significance
Herring Spawning Grounds – Supports one-third of all BC’s herring, a keystone species vital for the marine food web.
Seabird and Waterfowl Habitat – A critical site for migratory birds, including Brant Geese and Harlequin Ducks.
Eelgrass and Benthic Ecosystems – Important for juvenile fish, carbon sequestration, and habitat stability.
Salmon and Shellfish Populations – Supports 15 salmon-bearing streams, sustaining local fisheries and Indigenous food security.
Essential Marine Mammal Habitat – Foraging and haul-out site for Pacific harbour seals, Steller sea lions, and sea otters.
Social and Cultural Significance
K’ómoks First Nation Connection – Baynes Sound is integral to their marine stewardship and cultural heritage.
Indigenous Treaty Recognition – The K’ómoks Treaty (2024) reinforces the need for Indigenous-led conservation efforts.
Local Community Reliance – The ecosystem supports tourism, fisheries, and aquaculture, making its protection economically valuable.
Economic Significance
Sustainable Fisheries / Aquaculture – Protecting Baynes Sound would ensure long-term fisheries viability, particularly for herring, salmon, and shellfish.
Ecotourism Potential – With thriving wildlife, an MPA could boost eco-tourism and marine-based recreation.
Conclusion: The ecological, cultural, and economic importance of Baynes Sound is undeniable. Protecting this area would enhance biodiversity, sustain fisheries, and honor Indigenous rights.
3. Regulatory Intent & Stakeholder Consultation
The MPA framework requires regulatory measures based on ecosystem risk assessments. Baynes Sound faces significant threats that require stronger environmental protection laws.
Major Threats to Baynes Sound
Unregulated Shipbreaking & Toxic Pollution
Heavy metal contamination from heavy industrial activities like unregulated shipbreaking operations exceeds safety limits by 23,950%.
Lead, zinc, and copper pollution is harming fish and shellfish, affecting both marine biodiversity and human health.
Violation of BC’s Environmental Management Act, with multiple documented illegal discharges.
Habitat Destruction & Aquaculture Expansion
Over-extraction of resources is degrading benthic ecosystems and eelgrass beds.
Climate Change & Ocean Degradation
Rising sea temperatures threaten herring egg viability and juvenile salmon survival. Ocean acidification is weakening shellfish populations, affecting the local economy.
Conclusion: The existing threats pose serious risks to the sustainability of Baynes Sound. An MPA would enforce stricter regulations and mitigate these threats.
4. Regulatory Process & MPA Designation
To formally establish an MPA, the government must undertake regulatory impact assessments and legal drafting.
Key Steps for Baynes Sound MPA Designation
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) – Evaluate the risks of industrial activity.
Cost/Benefit Analysis (CBA) – Assess the economic value of conservation vs. continued degradation.
Regulatory Impact Analysis Statement (RIAS) – Outline the legal framework for protection.
Public & Indigenous Consultation – Ensure participation from local communities, stakeholders, and K’ómoks First Nation.
Legal Implementation – Treasury Board and Department of Justice finalize the MPA designation process.
Conclusion: Baynes Sound meets the criteria for immediate MPA designation, requiring government intervention.
5. MPA Management & Long-Term Protection
A well-managed MPA ensures effective conservation through monitoring, enforcement, and community involvement.
Key Management Strategies for Baynes Sound
Conservation Objectives – Protect herring spawning areas, eelgrass beds, and seabird habitats.
Monitoring Plan – Implement scientific research and Indigenous-led monitoring to track ecosystem health.
Regulatory Compliance & Enforcement – Prevent further illegal pollution and industrial expansion.
Public Education & Community Involvement – Engage local fishers, Indigenous leaders, and conservation groups.
Conclusion: Long-term MPA management will ensure sustainable marine conservation, protect local livelihoods, and enhance biodiversity.
Final Recommendation: Immediate Protection for Baynes Sound
Why Baynes Sound Should Be an MPA
It meets the ecological, cultural, and economic significance criteria under Canada’s Oceans Act.
It is under immediate threat from pollution, industrial activities, and climate change.
It aligns with Indigenous conservation leadership (K’ómoks Treaty & Tribal Park initiative).
It would strengthen BC’s marine conservation efforts and protect essential marine habitats.
Action Steps Needed:
Official designation as a Marine Protected Area (MPA) under the Oceans Act
Enforcement of stricter environmental regulations
Public and Indigenous consultation for long-term management
Immediate restrictions on shipbreaking, toxic discharge, and habitat destruction
We urge the British Columbia government to take action NOW! Protecting Baynes Sound will safeguard biodiversity, support local communities, and uphold Canada’s commitment to ocean conservation. 
Join the movement to protect Baynes Sound!
Email: ccobs.society@gmail.com
#ProtectBaynesSound#MPA#MarineConservation#SaveOurSeas
Read more here: https://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/…/process-processus-eng.html
#marineprotection#marineprotectedareas#DFO#ECCC#30x30challenge#shellfish#coastalmarinestrategy#BaynesSound#comoxvalley#comoxvalleybusiness#seafood#bccoastline#birds#overwintering#IBA#EBSA#KBA
Fisheries and Oceans CanadaEnvironment and Climate ChangeJosie OsborneTransport CanadaDavid EbyBC NDPConservative Party of BCConservative Party of BCBC Green PartyMarine Biologists Network and SupportOceana CanadaThe Ocean Legacy FoundationBC Wildlife FederationB.C. Wildlife Federation’s Watershed TeamPacific Salmon FoundationPacific WildPacific Streamkeepers FederationPacific Herring Spawn Reporting – IMAWGPacific WildEnvironment and Natural Resources in CanadaNGO Shipbreaking PlatformBirds CanadaBirdLife InternationalWatershed Watch Salmon SocietySalish Sea Whales and WildlifeWWF-CanadaCPAWS-BC
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