A Very Rich Biodiversity
The St. Lawrence River boasts extraordinary biodiversity. This ecosystem supports 19 species of marine mammals, 230 nesting bird species, 37 amphibians and reptiles, 200 fish species, and over 2,200 species of invertebrates. Additionally, the St. Lawrence River contains more than 2,000 species of vascular plants. All this biodiversity faces several human-induced threats, including agricultural, industrial, and municipal pollution, hydrocarbon extraction, and climate change.
A Unique Feature
The St. Lawrence River is unique in that it experiences tides even in its freshwater sections. Known as tidal rivers, these waterways are affected by tides in terms of flow and water level. This phenomenon creates brackish water (with salinity between seawater and freshwater), which supports a wide variety of animal and plant species, contributing to high biodiversity.
A Quarter of the Planet’s Freshwater
Stretching 3,200 km, the vast hydrographic system of the St. Lawrence River alone drains more than 25% of the planet’s freshwater. With a flow of approximately 12,500 m³ per second, it is one of the most powerful rivers in the world. It is both the quantity and quality of its freshwater that make the St. Lawrence River so important to its inhabitants. It’s no coincidence that 60% of Canada’s population lives along its shores.
The St. Lawrence Is at the Heart of Local Culture
The river is central to the vitality of the province. Quebec’s economy, its cities and villages, as well as its culture and way of life, are built around and inspired by the St. Lawrence. Protecting the St. Lawrence River means protecting Quebec’s culture, its fishing industry, tourism, and commerce. By implementing measures to protect the river, we are ultimately protecting ourselves.
