Wemindji Protected Areas
The Cree Communities of Eeyou Istchee and the Cree Nation Government have taken the initiative to develop a conservation strategy to meet our goals and achieve our dream of keeping our lands healthy for future generations. We have identified areas of cultural and ecological importance to be established as protected areas recognized by the Quebec government and under international standards.
Paakumshumwaau-Maatuskaau Biodiversity Reserve
The Paakumshumwaau-Maatuskaau biodiversity reserve is located in the Nord-du-Québec administrative region between 52°30’ and 53°15’ north latitude and 76°46’ and 78°53’ west longitude. It lies roughly 20 kilometres to the southeast of the Cree community of Wemindji and 32.5 kilometres to the north of the Cree community of Eastmain in the Baie-James Municipality. The biodiversity reserve covers an area of 4 539.0 km², including a marine portion of 146.5 km² and a terrestrial portion 4 392.5 km².