On July 4, 2024, a significant agreement was reached, marking the establishment of a new national park reserve along the northwestern shores of Epekwitk (Prince Edward Island). This agreement, announced by the Mi’kmawey Kapmnt Ta’n Nikana’tu’tij Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaw-Saqmaq — representing the Mi’kmaw Nation Government of Prince Edward Island through Chiefs Darlene Bernard of Lennox Island First Nation and Junior Gould of Abegweit First Nation — and the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, signifies a shared commitment to protecting this remarkable area.
The park reserve, named Pituamkek, meaning “At the Long Sand Dune,” encompasses a chain of barrier islands in northwestern P.E.I. and is recognized for its ecologically significant coastal dune ecosystems. Beyond its ecological importance, Pituamkek holds profound cultural and historical significance for the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq, with ancient and continuing Mi’kmaw land-use traditions, important cultural and archaeological sites, and distinctive geological formations.
Pituamkek’s diverse ecosystems, including coastal dune systems, old-growth forests, and Prince Edward Island’s sole igneous rock incursion, contribute to its exceptional natural beauty. The area also plays a vital role in mitigating the impacts of severe weather events on coastal communities, as demonstrated during Hurricane Fiona.
The Establishment Agreement, formalized by the Mi’kmaq Epekwitnewaq Kapmntemuow and the Government of Canada, outlines key aspects of the future park reserve. These include a co-management governance model, guardian programs, community-based job opportunities, and commitments to net-zero, climate-smart infrastructure development. This agreement signifies a step forward in Canada’s reconciliation efforts with Indigenous peoples and reaffirms a renewed government-to-government relationship with the Epekwitnewaq Mi’kmaq.
The ongoing collaboration to assemble the park reserve lands involves L’nuey, Parks Canada, Island Nature Trust, the Nature Conservancy of Canada, and the Province of Prince Edward Island, all playing crucial roles in the process. Since its inception in 2006, the Mi’kmaq Epekwitnewaq Kapmntemuow has been at the forefront, initiating and advocating tirelessly for the establishment of Pituamkek National Park Reserve. This agreement represents a collective effort to safeguard this iconic natural and cultural landscape for future generations.
