Should Canada's Plan to Protect the Channel Darter Be Approved?
Official title: Management plan for the Channel Darter (St.Lawrence population)
The Channel Darter is a small freshwater fish found in the St. Lawrence River system. It's listed as a species at risk under federal law. Fisheries and Oceans Canada has drafted a management plan to help the species recover, and they want your feedback before finalizing it.
Why This Matters
Live near the St. Lawrence River? Fish in its tributaries? This plan could affect how waterways are managed in your area. Conservation measures might restrict certain activities near the fish's habitat. If you care about protecting native species—or worry about new restrictions—this is your chance to weigh in.
What Could Change
Once finalized, this management plan becomes legally binding under the Species at Risk Act. It will set conservation objectives and identify measures to protect the Channel Darter's habitat. Development projects, fishing practices, and water management in the St. Lawrence region may need to comply with new requirements.
Key Issues
- Are the proposed conservation objectives appropriate for protecting the Channel Darter?
- What management strategies should be used to help the species recover?
How to Participate
- Review the proposed management plan on the consultation page to understand the conservation objectives and strategies.
- Send your comments by email to sara_lep@dfo-mpo.gc.ca by the deadline.