Atlantic Archipelago National Wildlife Area Proposal

Summary#

The federal government proposes to create the Atlantic Archipelago National Wildlife Area by adding six small islands and headlands in Nova Scotia to the Wildlife Area Regulations. If adopted, the sites (a combined 56.3 ha) would be closed to the public year‑round without a permit and added to the Environmental Violations Administrative Monetary Penalties Regulations so penalties can be issued for breaches. This is a proposal published on March 21, 2026; public comments are invited within 30 days.

What it does#

• Adds six parcels to Schedule I of the Wildlife Area Regulations under the Canada Wildlife Act:

  • Big Fish Island Unit — 6.6 ha
  • Green Island Unit — 4.5 ha
  • Guyon Island Unit — 11.9 ha
  • Hog Island Unit — 22.1 ha
  • Three Top Island Unit — 7.0 ha
  • Whitehead Island Unit — 4.2 ha

• Makes entry into those units prohibited year‑round unless a permit is issued. The usual NWA prohibitions would apply (for example: no hunting or trapping, no camping or open fires, no removing wildlife or damaging habitat, limits on vehicles and pets).

• Amends the Environmental Violations Administrative Monetary Penalties Regulations so administrative penalties (AMPs) can be imposed for offences in the new NWA.

• Assigns management, compliance promotion, permitting and enforcement to Environment and Climate Change Canada. Permit decision targets cited are 40 days, or 90 days when a permit could affect a species protected under SARA.

• The proposal is at the consultation stage. Comments are being accepted for 30 days after the Canada Gazette notice (published March 21, 2026).

Who's affected#

• People who visit, boat to, or use these islands and nearby shorelines. Access would require a permit; casual visits and many recreational activities would be restricted or banned in the units.
• Researchers who study seabirds and other wildlife. The Department expects about 5 permit applications over 10 years for scientific work.
• Environment and Climate Change Canada, which will cover administration and enforcement costs.
• The Province of Nova Scotia, conservation groups, and local Indigenous communities (including Mi’kmaq organizations engaged in ongoing consultation). The proposal notes provincial and Indigenous interests and ongoing discussions about management.
• Businesses: the government says there are no known current commercial activities on the parcels, so no expected impact on small businesses.

Why it matters#

• The islands provide breeding, nesting and wintering habitat for migratory birds and some species at risk. Designation would give broader legal protection for those habitats and wildlife beyond the current protections for migratory birds alone.
• It contributes to Canada’s conservation commitments, including the goal to protect 30% of lands and waters by 2030.
• Enforcement tools (warnings, tickets, AMPs or prosecution) will be available to reduce disturbance to sensitive colonies and habitat.
• The government estimates modest costs to run the NWA: first‑year costs about $60,500, annual costs about $58,400, and a present‑value total of about $491,000 over 10 years. Permit processing for the expected research visits is estimated at $655 in total.
• If you use or visit Nova Scotia’s small islands, or care about bird colonies and coastal habitat, this proposal could limit access but increase protection for wildlife.