Set Sail With Us

The St. Lawrence River is one of Canada’s most treasured gems – 744 miles long. The St. Lawrence/Great Lakes system is one of the biggest in the world and is responsible for draining more than 25 per cent of the world’s freshwater reserves. But as our reliance on the water way has grown, the St. Lawrence has become more and more taxed. In 1959, ocean vessels were given the okay to travel along the Great Lakes seaway. Although this decision has encouraged trade, it’s also encouraged exotic guests to stick around and make the waterway home. Moreover, it’s estimated that over the last two centuries, more than 163 non-native aquatic species have been introduced to these waters.

The Canadian Wildlife Federation is dedicated to making the St. Lawrence River a healthier waterway. We’ve created an array of French webisodes, called  Navigating Troubled Waters, that highlight the impacts of agriculture and other industries on water quality and wildlife habitats in the St. Lawrence. And we’re making the St. Lawrence our theme at the Quays of the Old Port of Montreal for Tall Ships on the Quays, Wednesday, September 14 to Sunday, September 18, 2011. Join the Canadian Wildlife Federation at the CWF tent to learn more about the St. Lawrence and the wildlife that live in it.

• Try our Fish-D viewers and see how aquatic species see their world.
• Get your hands wet measuring the water quality of the St. Lawrence. 
• Enjoy stunning aerial photography of the St. Lawrence’s sunken villages. 
• Learn about the marine mammal rescue network. 
• Join in our Wild Education games and activities, and much more!

And of course, stick around to welcome six Tall Ships that have sailed in from Canada and the U.S. especially for the occasion.

See you at the water’s edge!