Restoration of an Eelgrass Bed in the Cove of Pointe-au-Père (2017-2018)

The eelgrass beds in Pointe-au-Père cove have been affected for decades by human activities, which hampers its natural regeneration. Therefore, eelgrass plant transplantation has been proposed to give it a boost and ensure its rehabilitation. The first phase of work was carried out at the end of May 2017, when nearly 15,000 eelgrass plants were transplanted from a donor eelgrass bed in Rimouski Bay, which is known to be in excellent health. A second phase of work is planned for 2018 when the same quantity of eelgrass plants will be transplanted.

Eelgrass beds are home to a rich biodiversity, serving as a nursery, hiding place, larder, and spawning grounds for many fish species, crustaceans, and molluscs. Restoring this habitat also means sustainably ensuring the return of a diversified fauna.