project Le Saint-Laurent by the Nature Conservancy of Canada

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is the country’s unifying force for the preservation of nature. Through the permanent conservation of vast territories, we are providing solutions to the twin crises of rapid biodiversity decline and climate change. Since 1962, our planning framework has helped us engage Canadians to conserve and restore more than 20 million hectares. Together, we are moving towards a defining goal for the future of our planet: to protect 30% of its land and water by 2030. In Quebec, 4 million hectares of land are protected by NCC. Together with nature, we create a prosperous world.

Le Saint-Laurent , at the heart of our lives and our history

This year, the Saint-Laurent will be in the spotlight during this exceptional evening, as the 2026 Gala de la Terre will contribute to its protection.

The the Saint-Laurent occupies a central place in Quebec’s geography, history and economic development. It contains an ecological and natural wealth that contributes to the prosperity of all. Since 1978, NCC has led many initiatives to protect this majestic waterway.

This large-scale conservation work is based on several sectors of intervention at the heart of NCC’s mission. The foundation of this work is the protection of private land through securement. Over the years, these acquisitions have enabled NCC to protect 15 islands and 115 kilometres of shoreline, for a total of 2,655 hectares of natural island and riparian environments.

NCC also conducts research to improve understanding of the threats to these ecosystems. It uses strong scientific evidence to define its priority restoration actions. This science-based approach is essential because degradation of habitats — shorelines, floodplains and wetlands — requires strategic interventions. Approximately 25 restoration projects are carried out by NCC each year in Quebec.

The organization additionally fosters a community component by promoting the accessibility of certain sites and by raising awareness among the public who visit them. In addition, NCC supports Indigenous conservation with the diverse communities living along the river. Recently, NCC and the Council of the Innu First Nation Essipit joined forces for the protection of Pointe Sauvage. This impactful collaboration has resulted in a management plan that combines traditional knowledge and scientific approaches.

The conservation and restoration projects carried out by NCC and its partners not only help to protect endangered environments and species but also to preserve one of the world’s largest freshwater reserves: the Saint-Laurent, which alone accounts for more than 20% of the world’s resources.