Gilbert Bay has recently been designated a Marine Protected Area (MPA) under DFO's Oceans Act.

The purpose of the Gilbert Bay MPA is to protect the genetically and geographically distinct population of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) that make Gilbert Bay their home. The reddish-brown to golden coloured fish lives in Gilbert Bay year-round.

The designation has been a community driven initiative that began in 1998 when residents from William's Harbour and Port Hope Simpson first approached DFO about making Gilbert Bay a MPA. Congratulations to all involved! Your work will help ensure the “Golden Cod” of Gilbert Bay, along with the habitats and ecosystem which support them, remain for future generations to enjoy.

For more information, visit
http://www.gilbertbay.com

The MV Apollo, the vessel that operates between St. Barbe, NL and Blanc Sablon, PQ began operations on Tuesday, April 26. The ferry is a welcome sight after a winter of isolation on Labrador Coastal Drive. For information on schedules see the following website http://www.labradormarine.com
or call 1 866 535 2567 from with the Province, 709 724 9173 from outside the Province.

Foray Newfoundland and Labrador will include a foray at Point Amour on September 6-9, 2005. This is a wonderful chance for the amateur naturalist to learn about mushrooms beside professional and seasoned mycophiles. Detailed information and registration forms are available at http://swgc.mun.ca/hnhs

Our new website was launched on Sunday, March 20, 2005. We hope you like the new format. Please note that we're still working on it... most (but not all) pages are now in place, but some features require more work, and there are additional photos to come. Stay-tuned as we fine-tune!