The Great Bear Sea MPA Network builds on existing conservation in the region and covers 30% of the Great Bear Sea / Northern Shelf Bioregion.

The MPA Network aims to achieve significant conservation and economic outcomes while placing high protection and restrictions on only 6% to 15% of the Great Bear Sea region. The design strategies from the Network Action Plan recommend that 20% to 50% of the Network be captured in areas of high protection.

The MPA is established through Crown government legislation and/or Indigenous law. The MPA has clear boundaries established for the long-term conservation of the area. The goals of the site’s designation are clearly defined and stated, with biodiversity conservation as a primary stated objective. There is a clear process in place to define allowed uses and the associated regulations and rules to control the impact of authorized activities.

The MPA exists and is operational, not just on paper. Plans for management are activated, and biodiversity benefits can begin to accrue. The MPA has a plan (a management plan or equivalent) for regulating activities. Governance of the MPA exists within a managing body or people group, such as an Indigenous People, government agency, NGO, or shared governance among these. Resource users, such as fishers or tourism operators, are aware of the MPA regulations.

The Great Bear Sea MPA Network is made of existing and proposed MPAs, called ‘Sites’. Proposed MPAs are being established on varying timelines.

As of June 2026