tourism

Murals on silos: MRC unveils signature rural art attraction

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Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

Those out for a countryside drive along Franklin’s bucolic Rue de l’Artifice will no doubt have noticed a pair of towering murals painted on roadside silos at the Ferme Sylvain et Pascal Vincent Inc.

The MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent celebrated the completion of the giant murals during a brief inauguration ceremony on September 9 for the first sky-high works of art to be included in the Circuit de Fresques sur Silos Agricoles. Two more murals will be added to the unique series at Thornbrae Farms in Très-Saint-Sacrement and Framboise et Parapluies in Saint-Chrysostome before the end of the year.

“It is with immense pride and deep gratitude that I mark this milestone in the promotion of our collective agricultural heritage,” said MRC prefect Louise Lebrun. “Together, we have sown the first seeds of a unique cultural journey that will raise our region’s profile far beyond its borders,” she added, before thanking the Vincent family, the other participating farms, partners, and artists for their belief in this bold initiative.

Rooted in the rural landscape of the Haut-Saint-Laurent, each mural will tell a story about the culture, farms, and traditions that are integral to the region’s identity. “Silos are symbolic for farmers, but they tend to get lost in the background,” said Nancy Brunelle, the MRC’s cultural development coordinator. “We are used to seeing them, but now we’re using this emblem to create a giant mural that will become an open-air exhibition,” she explained.

“With 93 per cent of the MRC’s territory being agricultural land, the project pays tribute to agricultural producers, promotes the profession, and highlights the heritage built by farmers. It is truly a tribute,” added the MRC’s tourism development agent, Sébastien Guy.

The first silos were painted by the Montreal-based collective of muralists known as Arts du Commun. “Everyone was very satisfied and amazed by the result. The family is happy,” said Brunelle. “It’s a good start.”

The silo at Thornbrae Farms has been washed and primed and work is expected to begin right away on the mural. Owner Bill Anderson has been enthusiastic about the project since it was first introduced. “I think it is absolutely wonderful,” he says, noting the 70-foot-tall mural to be painted at his farm by Montreal muralist and graffiti artist Bosny will be very different from those gracing the silos in Franklin.

“We want to explore different graphic styles and techniques,” explained Brunelle. For example, Arts du Commun painted with a compressor and projected the image onto the silo while adjusting proportions to the curvature of the concrete structure. Bosny prefers to work with a grid system to scale but paints freehand using spray cans.

The silo at Framboise et Parapluie will be painted by a different graffiti art muralist known in Montreal as Peru143. A fourth mural is expected to start this year and will be completed next spring.

Both Brunelle and Guy hope the silos will create opportunities for tourists and locals to approach agriculture from a new perspective. “Agriculture often means milk, vegetables, grains, and livestock, but between the raw product and the consumer is the farmer,” Guy explained. “All of the agricultural producers together represent an extraordinary social capital, and when we talk about bringing city folk closer to agriculture, we mean finding ways for producers to talk with people from outside the region. Our farms will become a place of exchange, and that is very rare,” he added.

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Église Saint-Roch to host immersive light and sound show

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Église Saint-Roch to host immersive light and sound show

Ruby Pratka, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

editor@qctonline.com

Montreal-based light-and- sound-show specialists Moment Factory have announced plans to bring an immersive show to Église Saint- Roch just in time for the holidays.

The company has created immersive light-and-sound shows at the Cathédrale Marie- Reine-du-Monde in Montreal, at Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, and at landmarks in Paris, New York, Singapore, San Francisco and Las Vegas, in addition to immersive museum exhibits, light and sound for global pop stars such as Billie Eilish, and – much closer to home – the Onwha’ Lumina light and sound walk in Wendake. This is its first foray into downtown Quebec City.

Église Saint-Roch still holds regular masses, and hosts a seasonal day centre/cold-weather night shelter for people experiencing homelessness, as well as offices and meeting rooms used by several community groups, in its enormous basement. It has at various times served as a concert venue and a gallery for local artists and designers. Its sprawling forecourt, known as le parvis, arguably the social centre of the neighbourhood, has hosted outdoor jazz concerts and magic shows, farmers’ markets, a food fridge and pantry and a communal piano. However, this is the first time the church has been home to a tourist attraction.

In an announcement issued on Sept. 16, the show is described as “a grandiose immersive experience highlighting its venue. The 45-minute show will transform the church into a living tableau celebrating the harmony between humans and nature. “As night falls, visitors are first invited to (re)discover the history and architecture of this iconic Quebec City landmark through an interactive web application. The space is then transformed by breathtaking projections, enveloping light displays, and an orchestral musical composition. Every detail of this odyssey encourages us to slow down, look up, and be immersed in a larger-than-life beauty,” the announcement says.

“I am very proud that Église Saint-Roch has been selected to host the AURA immersive experience, which represents an exceptional opportunity for downtown Quebec City. The city has chosen to support this initiative, which will help attract visitors to the neighbour- hood. We need more traffic to stimulate economic vitality. This experience is part of a three-year action plan that includes significant investments for the area over the coming years. AURA will mark the beginning of an era of change, dynamism, and renewal for Saint-Roch,” Mayor Bruno Marchand said in a statement. In addition to the city, the provincial government, Destination Québec cité, Desjardins and the SDC Centre- ville business owners’ group are among the show’s founding sponsors.

The company will pay an undisclosed sum in rent to the Marie-de-l’Incarnation parish, which oversees the church, insulating it at least somewhat from the financial and architectural struggles of other large churches in the city. To accommodate Moment Factory’s specifications, the church will make a few changes, including moving the altar. For Rev. Julien Guillot, moderator of the Unité missionnaire Basse-Ville– Limoilou–Vanier, it’s worth the effort. “Since 2017, we have been hoping that a project like this could see the light of day,” he said. “It’s a joy for the parish to contribute to the project alongside other partners.”

For restaurateur Marc- Antoine Beauchesne, president of the SDC Saint-Roch business owners’ association, the project represents a “big vote of confidence” and a chance to bring people to the neighbourhood who would not usually visit it. “Our job is to make sure Saint- Roch is shown in its best light,” he told the QCT. He emphasized that for the SDC, that didn’t necessarily mean “hiding” the district’s much-discussed struggles with poverty, homelessness and drug use. “The problems are there with or without Moment Factory … but we don’t want to hide problems, we want to solve problems or [reduce] problems. It kind of gives us a little elbow in the ribs to find solutions.”

Tickets are expected to go on sale in October, with opening night scheduled for Dec. 5.

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A new Regional Minister for the Gaspésie

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI

GASPÉ – Premier François Legault has entrusted the Gaspé Peninsula and Magdalen Islands to a new addition to the cabinet: the Member of the National Assembly (MNA) for Rivière-du-Loup-Témiscouata, Amélie Dionne.

Ms. Dionne will also hold the Tourism portfolio in addition to being the Minister Responsible for the Lower Saint Lawrence region.

Daniel Côté, the mayor of Gaspé, notes that Ms. Dionne is the only minister who will have two administrative regions under her wing.

“The Premier has chosen to no longer have a minister in Eastern Quebec, except for Ms. Dionne, who is in Rivière-du-Loup, in the western part of Eastern Quebec. “This is taking us further and further away from power,” notes Daniel Côté.

“Basically, I think that no matter the region of Quebec it should have its own regional minister. The two MNAs from the Côte-Nord sit in the cabinet. Here, it’s not the Premier’s choice (he will be responsible for another region), and he’s imposing a minister responsible for two mega-regions. That’s where the problem lies. It’s as if the Gaspé were being submerged in the Lower St. Lawrence, and as citizens of the Gaspé, we’ve never liked that because there are different realities,” criticizes the mayor of Gaspé.

He is citing as examples Ian Lafrenière, an MNA based in Montreal who covers Northern Quebec, and François Legault, who is the Minister Responsible for Abitibi-Témiscamingue.

With Donald Martel at the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries and Food (MAPAQ), Mayor Côté believes the new member of the cabinet has good contacts in the region, and he feels he would be able to raise awareness of fisheries issues.

As far as the new Minister of Municipal Affairs, Geneviève Guilbault, Daniel Côté says he has spoken with her in the past and he is under the impression that she understands the issues very well.

On the rail front, with Jonatan Julien now Minister of Transport, the mayor of Gaspé is confident, especially since he was also the Minister Responsible for the Gaspé region, with whom relations were good.

Eric Dube, the mayor of New Richmond and president of the Société du chemin fer de la Gaspésie agrees with that observation. “We worked a lot with Mr. Julien on the rail issue. I think he should remember that. We should be able to establish contacts fairly quickly for the next steps.” says Mr. Dubé.

Quebec put the project back into a “study” phase in March following significant cost overruns to rehabilitate the third section.

Regarding Amélie Dionne’s arrival, Éric Dubé is giving her a chance and isn’t offended by the fact that she isn’t from the Gaspé region. “What I asked for was to have the best person to handle our issues. If the Premier decided it was her, I’ll give her a chance,” he says.

The Baie-des-Chaleurs Chamber of Commerce and Industry called for a minister from the Gaspé region. “We would have preferred to have a minister from the Gaspé region. We’re open to giving her a chance and we hope to meet with her soon to make our priorities known and for regional development to be a priority for her,” says the director, Valentine Palma.

Gaspé MNA Stéphane Sainte-Croix is ​​relieved to see this shuffle process now a thing of the past.
“As for what’s next, we’ll roll up our sleeves tomorrow to establish strategies to meet with the new ministers as soon as possible and bring our issues to them,” says Mr. Saint-Croix.

He’s giving Amélie Dionne, with whom he spoke briefly a few minutes after her appointment as Regional Minister, a chance. The MNA for Gaspé welcomes the arrival of Jonatan Julien as Transport Minister for the rail file.

With the CAQ polling at only 11%, Mr. Sainte-Croix believes that the reshuffling of the cabinet will give his party and the government new wings. “The roadmap for what’s next is known. We’ll roll up our sleeves and do what we have to do to regain people’s trust,” he believes.

As SPEC went to press, the MNA for Gaspé was unsure whether he would remain government assistant for Fisheries under the new Minister of Fisheries, Donald Martel.

A new Regional Minister for the Gaspésie Read More »

Gaspé wants to position itself as a leader in responsible tourism

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Jean-Phillipe Thibault, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The Town of Gaspé is launching its first-ever Four-season sustainable destination strategy. The roadmap is described as ambitious and aims to guide the territory’s tourism development “in a harmonious, environmentally friendly manner that benefits the entire community.”

Mayor of Gaspé, Daniel Côté notes that Gaspé is one of the first towns in Quebec to adopt such a plan. “For our destination, we expect to become a Quebec leader in sustainable tourism, authentic tourism, and four-season tourism. We anticipate an improvement in the quality of life for residents.”
For the mayor, sustainable development is no longer an option. “It must practically be an obligation. It’s a condition for success. We can no longer conduct development the way we did 100 years ago.”
The strategy unveiled on June 25 is structured around four priority areas of intervention: sustainable mobility and connectivity, four-season tourism, environmental preservation and responsible management, as well as collaborative governance and sustainable strategy.

“This strategy is an element that will guide our actions in sustainable tourism for years to come […] It gives us the tools to develop a thriving tourism economy that respects our exceptional environment and contributes directly to the quality of life of our citizens,” adds Daniel Côté.

Four Seasons

Earlier this year, Gaspé hosted winter cruises for the first time, welcoming Le Commandant Charcot. The town administration sees this as just the beginning of its four-season tourism development.

“We’ve put ourselves on the map with this, but it’s a bit of a pretext to promote genuine winter tourism development,” notes Daniel Côté. We’ve been talking about it for years, but we’ve taken the bull by the horns and it’s a development area we’re going to focus on. We’re still in a summer tourism paradigm. The results are starting to show, but we’re still very tied to summer.”

To support fall tourism, a $50,000 grant was provided earlier to the Berceau du Canada team to enable operations during peak international cruise season. The town’s proposed new arena project is also back in the spotlight. The mayor believes such infrastructure would help support both sports and event tourism.

Other potential growth areas include backcountry skiing and snowmobiling—“when it snows,” Côté notes.

Daniel Côté is also open to artificial snowmaking at Mont Bechervaise, which is owned by the Town.
“Studies are underway and we are contributing to them, but there are a million technical issues […] There are different options on the table, and I think it will become a priority,” he explains.

The next steps of the Four-Season sustainable destination strategy will include the establishment of a monitoring committee to oversee the implementation of the action plan and the search for funding to carry out priority projects. The full report on the process is available for consultation on the Town of Gaspé’s website.

Gaspé wants to position itself as a leader in responsible tourism Read More »

Niagara has imposed a tourist tax since 2019 to fund its infrastructure

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

NIAGARA FALLS, Ont. – A five-day stay for a family in Niagara Falls could cost around $200 in various tourist fees, which help fund the infrastructure and activities of Canada’s tourism capital.
Every year, approximately 14 million tourists visit the famous falls, but the Niagara Falls Tourism Office refuses to disclose its operating budget, instead referring inquiries to the City.

The Municipal Accommodations Tax (MAT) is a mandatory tax imposed by the city council on the purchase of short-term accommodations for a continuous period of 28 days or less in hotels, motels, inns, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals in the city of Niagara Falls. It has been in effect since 2019.

The purpose of the MAT is to support and develop the tourism industry in Niagara Falls and improve the quality of life for city residents.

The objectives of the tax include, but are not limited to, increasing tourist visitation; increasing total tourist spending; increasing the development of tourism assets and tax assessment; and undertaking environmental sustainability initiatives to support the tourism industry and the broader community.
In 2017, Ontario passed a law allowing municipalities to impose a hotel tax.

Since June 1, the rate has been set at $4 per night for a two-star establishment and to $7 per night for a five-star establishment. Unrated properties are required to charge $5 per night. Initially, the tax was set at $2, regardless of category. Beginning in April 2026, the MAT will be converted to 4% of the accommodation bill.

The MAT must be clearly listed on the guest’s receipt or invoice.

In addition, the tourism office adds that, as in other tourist cities around the world, some hotels may charge additional hotel or resort fees to cover ancillary services. Some businesses may also charge additional service fees. Businesses are allowed to set their own prices and add discretionary service fees. The amount charged must be communicated to the potential customer in advance and not presented as a “tax.”

As prices and service charges are determined individually by each business, these charges may vary. Ontario businesses are required to comply with the Ontario Consumer Protection Act, which covers these requirements.

Niagara Falls Tourism specifies that it is not responsible for setting prices, processing, or collecting service charges.

In addition, parking is subject to a fee: the cheapest lots start at $10 and are located some distance from the main tourist attractions. The closer you get to the attractions, the higher the rate, up to $35 per day for covered parking.

In addition, there is an efficient public transportation system that allows visitors to visit all the sites between the large parking lot west of the city and Niagara-on-the-Lake, a historic resort area. Along the way, there are many vineyards and fruit growers, including Ontario peaches.

One thing is noticeable when tourists visit Niagara Falls. The restrooms are very clean and odor-free. No trash cans overflow at any time of day, despite a constant influx of tourists. The tourist infrastructure is in excellent condition, clean, and the staff—even the students—are courteous and smiling.

Several new activities are offered to tourists who visit the tourist destination fairly regularly.
The Niagara Falls Finance Department reports that it has collected $4,017,272.04 with the measure for the 2024 fiscal year. It is again specified that the money is used to promote tourist activities.

A contrast with Percé

However, the principle of the tourist tax sparked considerable debate in Percé.

It was introduced on May 1, 2022, but the court ruled it illegal in June 2023 on the grounds that it did not comply with the enabling powers prescribed by the Cities and Towns Act relating to municipal taxes.

The court concluded that the framework allowed a municipality to enter into an agreement to appoint a third party as tax collector, but that this role could not be imposed, which exceeded the powers granted.

Percé had initiated proceedings in the Court of Appeal, but the council withdrew in June 2024.
Following the July 1 council meeting, Mayor Daniel Leboeuf stated that he had not received any feedback from groups of merchants, hoteliers, or restaurateurs who wanted to propose alternatives to the tax as it was proposed.

He pointed out that Percé devotes a significant portion of its budget to hospitality and infrastructure, asserting that the industry must do its part.

Niagara has imposed a tourist tax since 2019 to fund its infrastructure Read More »

Haut-Saint-Laurent silos will soon have a new look

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Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

At least four farm silos are set to become giant canvasses as part of the MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent’s Circuit des Fresques sur Silos et Bâtiments Agricoles this summer.

The regional network of murals painted on farm structures has been in development for several years. The MRC’s cultural coordinator, Nancy Brunelle, says the reason for this is that “A complex project of this scale requires a lot of planning, multi-level management, and coordination with a considerable number of people.”

Unique in Quebec, the project has been the subject of several consultations, including a gathering in Ormstown last December, where the local agricultural community was introduced to the concept as well representatives from Ohisse, the social design firm mandated by the MRC to manage the initiative.

At least 18 area producers indicated they were interested in the project following the initial meeting, and three 15-year contracts have now been signed with farmers as part of the first phase. The first silos to be painted will involve the municipalities of Franklin, Très-Saint-Sacrement, and Saint-Chrysostome to create the first of three anticipated loops.

Two concrete silos at the Ferme Sylvain et Pascal Vincent Inc. in Franklin were the first to be selected for the project.Following a call for tenders, the Montreal-based ArtduCommun collective of professional artists with experience in creating large-format contemporary murals has been hired to work with the Vincent family to determine the subject, theme, and content of the artwork to appear on their silo. Calls have also been issued for the two other silos as well.

Brunelle says the MRC has budgeted more than $100,000 per mural for the largest concrete silos, while smaller metal silos are expected to cost less to complete. The project is being funded as part of an agreement between the MRC and the Ministère des Affaires Municipals et de l’Habitation as part of the Fonds Régions et Ruralité-component three funds dedicated to signature innovation.

The MRC is estimating it will take up to a month to finalize the conceptualization and design for each mural and at least another month for production on site, depending on how well the weather cooperates.

Brunelle confirms that apart from the use of their silos and property during the production stage, the participating farms are not required to contribute financially to the project. Once completed, visitors will be able to appreciate the artwork from afar or up close at the participating farms.

“The MRC wants to showcase local farmers and agricultural practices while highlighting attractions, businesses, and companies located nearby,” Brunelle explained, noting the regional government is also looking to enhance its cultural tourism offering while promoting the Haut-Saint-Laurent. The MRC is also hoping the massive murals will also have a positive impact on region’s economic development.

A second phase including several more silos is scheduled to take place during the summer of 2026, and the MRC expects a third phase will also be necessary to complete additional murals on different agricultural buildings to complete the circuit.

Haut-Saint-Laurent silos will soon have a new look Read More »

No financial strategy for Percé tourism sector

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

PERCÉ – Discussions between the Town of Percé and business owners who wanted to meet with the town council last winter to find a solution for financing tourism infrastructure have still not begun.
A tourist tax was introduced on May 1, 2022, and the court ruled it illegal in June 2023 because it did not comply with the enabling powers prescribed by the Cities and Towns Act relating to municipal taxes.

The court concluded that the framework allowed a municipality to enter into an agreement to make a third party the collector of the tax, but that this role of collector could not be imposed, which exceeded the powers granted.

The Town of Percé had initiated proceedings in the Court of Appeals, but the council backed down in June 2024.

“We did not receive any feedback from groups of merchants, hoteliers, and restaurateurs who wanted to propose alternatives to the fee as it was proposed,” says Mayor Daniel Leboeuf.
“It’s unfortunate because we could have made progress before the tourist season. We’ll wait for them. It’s their industry, so they need to find a way to promote it and come up with the means to do so,” adds the mayor.

Mr. Leboeuf believes that this issue could become part of the public debate during the upcoming municipal election campaign this fall.

“It’s not in my program. I’d rather wait for their suggestions,” says the mayor, who will be seeking re-election in November.

“Percé devotes a significant portion of its budget to hospitality and infrastructure that must be maintained by a small population. It’s considerable. The industry has to do its part,” the mayor continues.
The tourist tax originally proposed by former mayor Cathy Poirier added $1 to purchases of goods and services over $20, with some exceptions, and $1 per night to help maintain tourist infrastructure. The town estimates that infrastructure costs $800,000 per year to maintain.

In 2022, $155,000 was collected during the tax’s only year of application.

Financial statements presented in August.

On June 30, the town filed its 2024 financial statements, meeting the legal deadline, during a special council session.

The accounting firm’s documents were submitted to the town over the last week of June.
“We received them at the last minute. That didn’t give us time to review the results. A surplus has been identified, and we want to understand where it came from before presenting it to the citizens,” explains Mr. Leboeuf.

When asked to comment on the size of the surplus, the mayor remained vague.

“It is higher than last year’s. It’s not necessarily because we charged too much in taxes. There are many factors involved. We will demonstrate this on August 5,” is all the mayor would say.
The town of Percé recorded a surplus of $551,669 for the 2023 fiscal year, out of a total budget of $8,042,843

No financial strategy for Percé tourism sector Read More »

A trio to launch the 2025 summer tourist season 

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

PERCÉ – The 2025 tourist season was launched on June 4 in Percé before some 150 people who were keen to mark the occasion. 

This year, Gaspésie Gourmande and Culture Gaspésie are joining forces with Tourisme Gaspésie major to kick off the start of the summer with a major event in Percé. 

This launch comes at the same time as CAA-Québec published its annual survey showing Quebecers intend to vacation within the province. Gaspésie ranked second in the survey, at 18%, just behind Quebec City and its surrounding region, at 21%. 

“We were eagerly awaiting this survey. The feedback from the field is very positive. Reservations are going well. It’s clear that the heart of the tourist season, the two weeks of construction and the two following, are very busy. What’s fun to see is that people are coming earlier,” notes Stéphanie Thibaud, marketing director of Tourisme Gaspésie. 

Ms. Thibaud notes that tourists are already present in the region, an observation made by the mayor of Percé, who says local business owners are optimistic. 

“They’re all very optimistic. Reservations for accommodations and campsites are apparently higher than last year at this time. From the top of my town hall, I can see tourists boarding the ferries to Bonaventure Island. That bodes well,” notes Daniel Leboeuf. Tourisme Gaspésie is investing $900,000 in traditional media between March and October, a sum that rises to $1.3 million when content production is factored in. 

“We’re targeting the Quebec market, our main clientele. We’re targeting New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. We’re going to reach a large target group: families, semi-retirees, younger people traveling as couples or with young children. We’re going to adapt our message for the different seasons,” explains Ms. Thibaud. 

Last year, the summer season totalled nearly 700,000 visitors, but Tourisme Gaspésie isn’t setting a specific target for this year. 

The region’s accommodation offering has increased by 20% since 2020. “It’s 20% in establishments but also in campgrounds. We have room to welcome people and we have new attractions to discover. An extra night, an extra activity, an extra restaurant—that’s what adds value to a trip to the Gaspé,” says the marketing manager, who insists there are still places available in the region in July and August. 

Taking advantage of the launch of the tourist season, Gaspésie Gourmande presented the 20th edition of its magazine, which showcases regional gastronomy from every angle. 

“The first edition of this tool was an 8 1/2 x 11 page that we folded in three,” recalls Johanne Michaud, director of Gaspésie Gourmet. 

Gourmet tourism is thriving. “There’s a surge in local purchasing with what’s happening in the current context. Our members are preparing for the coming summer. We’re expecting a year that may be more extraordinary than 2020. People have a taste for the authenticity we offer them, that businesses offer them.” When you walk into a store, the producer is there, you know the product, you see the field behind it. It’s not all rosy, but I think food tourism is thriving in the Gaspé,” says Ms. Michaud. 

The region has chosen to offer a comprehensive food tour rather than short tours in other regions. 

“When we do our magazine guide by MRC, people, if they only come to Baie-des-Chaleurs or Haute-Gaspésie, they get a lot. They can’t see everything. I don’t think it’s a challenge. It’s dynamic everywhere,” she says. 

A cultural and food tourism offering could be developed, as the three organizations have partnered for the season launch. “There are some great avenues we could explore. There are already collaborations with Culture Gaspésie. We could work together more,” says Ms. Michaud. 

At the same time, the Gaspésie Arts Circuit is celebrating its 30th anniversary, a circuit that operates year-round, unlike other regions. 

“We’re very proud that this initiative is still going strong. The idea was to allow artisans to market their products together,” says Culture Gaspé sie director Céline Breton, who is pleased with this partnership for the season’s launch. 

“We all complement each other in the tourism offering. When tourists arrive, they want to eat well, see shows, and visit attractions. If we all work as a team, we can create a great tourist experience,” says Ms. Breton. 

Marketing is geared toward young people using social networks. “We have to reach them where they are,” explains Ms. Breton. 

The circuit includes 36 artisans. “Since we are a tourist region, it allows these artists to make a living from their art, unlike in other regions,” says Ms. Breton. 

Awards 

Tourisme Gaspésie took advantage of its meeting to highlight the contribution of two artisans in the tourism industry. 

The owner of Manoir Belle Plage in Carleton-sur-Mer, David Comeau, received the 2025 Excellence Tourism Award, a repeat for the Comeau family, as his father has already received a similar award. 

“The importance of making tourism more sustainable, of adapting to local people, Mr. Comeau is an example,” says Joëlle Ross, director of Tourisme Gaspésie. 

Paule Ménard-Pelletier of Sainte-Anne-des-Monts based With Couleur chocolat won the 2025 Emerging Manager Award, which recognizes the dynamism and leadership of an individual seen as a driving force in the future of regional tourism. 

“Yes, it’s fun to recognize excellence, but it’s also fun to recognize an entrepreneur who has had a business for several years and who works hard,” noted Ms. Ross. 

Gaspésie Gourmande also presented awards at the event. 

The Award of Excellence was awarded to Les Pêcheries Gaspésiennes in Rivière-au-Renard, owned by Olivier Dupuis and Simon Langlais, for its dynamism and innovative approach to marketing its products. 

Founded in 1983, this family business has demonstrated great dynamism since its first years of operation. The groundfish processing plant quickly added the production of the unique Gaspé Cured cod to the manufacture of fish fillets for urban markets, and later opened a retail business with its fish market, which still exists today. 

Over the years, Les Pêcheries Gaspésiennes has continued to diversify its activities while pursuing sustained growth. 

This ability to adapt and diversify is one of its greatest assets, allowing it to weather more difficult times with resilience and vision. 

Furthermore, the Paul-Hachey Award, presented to a chef working in the Gaspé Peninsula who uses products from the Gaspésie Gourmande line with pride and conviction, is awarded to Samuel Laverrière, chef and co-owner of Littoral Bistro Gourmand, located in Sainte-Anne-des-Monts. A 2016 graduate in French cuisine from Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, he arrived in Haute-Gaspésie in 2021, where he discovered a different reality, far from the abundance of readily available products to which he was accustomed. 

He learned to work with the seasons, adapt to market availability, and adjust his menus to better showcase local products. 

“Through his authentic approach, his creativity, and his respect for the product, Samuel Laverrière perfectly embodies the spirit of the Paul-Hachey Award and contributes to promoting the Gaspésie gourmet scene, one plate at a time,” notes Gaspésie Gourmande. 

A trio to launch the 2025 summer tourist season  Read More »

A busy summer ahead for Forillon Park 

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Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The summer tourist season, which began on May 30 for Forillon Park, is off to a good start, with overnight stays booked so far 23% higher than those recorded at the same time last year. 

More than 18,840 overnight stays have been booked since the reservation centre opened on February 5. 

“If you look at our popular ready-to-camp sites in July and August, they’re practically full. The same goes for our electric campsites,” notes Forillon Park manager, Mathieu Côté, Parks Canada’s Gaspésie Field Unit Director. There’s still room for unserviced sites. 

For those looking for ready-to-camp sites, there are still good dates available in June, September, and October. The season continues to stretch out. 

“We feel there are a few more reservations in June. We expect the tourist season to start fairly early, but it all depends on the weather. Those who want to come to Forillon should check the booking sites because they fill up quickly,” notes the manager. 

The new season brings its share of new developments, including a major conservation project for the first of Grande-Grave’s four heritage homes. Work began on the Joseph-Gavey House on May 12. 

“This is the beginning of the work. For safety reasons, there was a weakened barn. We had to hold discussions over the past few months with the group (Regroupement de personnes expropriées de Forillon) and the families involved. We had to deconstruct the barn and we committed to rebuilding it, keeping as much of the material as possible,” explains Mr. Côté. 

A dome will be placed over the house to protect it from the weather during the outdoor construction. Interior work will begin later this year. 

“It’s a complex project. There’s heritage, conservation, and visitor experience, because we’re making heritage accommodations. There’s also a relationship project with the community and the families. We want to commemorate the families who lived there,” explains Mr. Côté. 

In November 2022, the federal government announced nearly $9.8 million in support, focusing on four wooden heritage houses in the Grande-Grave area: those of Élias Gavey, Daniel Gavey, Joseph Gavey, and Charles Philipp Bartlett. 

Last year, work to finalize access roads to the houses and water research to drill a well for the houses was completed. 

The restoration and development project in the beaver pond area is nearing completion. The installation of furniture and the addition of interpretation and signage panels will complete the development of the three new trails in the area during the season. 

While these final steps are being finalized, visitors can enjoy the Le Pic-bois, Le Ruisseau, and Le Castor trails, which are now listed on the Forillon National Park map. 

“The trails will be inaugurated on July 19, but they are accessible. One of these trails connects the Visitor and Discovery Centre to the waterfall trail,” says the director. 

The asphalt on the old Route 132 has been removed. “We’re talking about six kilometres of road where we’ve removed culverts, restored waterways, and removed the asphalt. We’re in the final phase with the planting of 15,000 trees. We’ve also saved a kilometre of road,” notes the director. “In the context of a national park, leaving it as is was out of the question,” adds Mr. Côté. 

Several cultural and sporting events will also fill the park’s activities, including the inauguration of the trails on July 19; the Mawiomi, the pow-wow of the Micmac Nation of Gespeg, on August 9 in the North sector, near the reception and discovery centre; the sunrise show with Sara Curruchich on August 10 at Cap-Bon-Ami in partnership with the Festival Musique du Bout du Monde; and the Ultra Trail Forillon, a trail running event by Événements Gaspésia, which will return for a third year from September 19 to 21. 

Heritage sites including the Blanchette House, the Dolbel-Roberts House, and the Hyman & Sons General Store will come alive starting June 20. Food and sports concessions will gradually open between now and then. Over the past 15 years, more than $100 million has been invested in the park to bring it up to date.

A busy summer ahead for Forillon Park  Read More »

New Fishing Lodge Brings Passion, Tourism, and community spirit

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Mary Robertson, LJI Journalist

CASCAPEDIA-ST. JULES – The grand opening of the Gaspé Coastal Fishing Lodge on May 16 was an exciting event for its founders, Sarah Nellis, Andrew Murphy, and all who worked hard for more than a year to turn an abandoned old building into a new fishing lodge on the Grand Cascapedia River. 

It was also a reason for the community to gather at the Lodge and see the renovations on what was once a local landmark. Fishing enthusiasts and the local community were given tours of the new lodge and told about the historical significance of the Nadeau family and their contributions to the town more than a century ago. 

Originally from Bromont in the Eastern Townships, Andrew first came to the Bay of Chaleurs in 2018 to explore the possibilities for striped bass fishing in the area. By chance, he met Sarah, a salmon-fishing guide, who grew up in Cascapedia-St. Jules. Together, they shared their passion for fishing and realized that they wanted to build a life together in Sarah’s hometown. 

Andrew started Gaspe Coastal, a guiding operation that initially focused on striped bass. His efforts helped to introduce and grow the bass fishing industry in the region, something rarely seen in Eastern Canada. Sarah later became a partner in the business, and over time, they expanded their offerings to include Atlantic salmon fishing adventures. It wasn’t long after that they started to work on a business plan to build their own fishing lodge. 

“We always knew a fishing lodge was part of the long-term plan,” says Sarah. “Our home was already a lodge of sorts, with guests coming and going all summer long. Now, we’ve created a space that welcomes guests more formally but still feels like home.” 

Their lodge in the centre of Cascapedia-St-Jules was built by Edmund Nadeau, whose father, Peter, had been a successful entrepreneur in the early 1900s in Grand Cascapedia. Lovingly restored and redesigned, the lodge now offers occupancy for 20 guests, with 10 guest rooms, five bathrooms, and luxurious bedding. It is decorated in a warm, lived-in decor that includes everything from a Montreal Canadiens jersey to vintage fishing reels and antlers. “We built the kind of lodge we would want to visit,” she says. “A place with world-class angling, delicious food and wine, and an atmosphere full of personality.” 

Their guiding team is young, dynamic, and deeply passionate about fishing and hospitality. With an experienced chef preparing gourmet meals and a program that blends luxury and wilderness, the lodge is already making waves among anglers from Canada, the United States, and Europe. 

While Atlantic salmon remains a major draw, the couple emphasizes the potential of striped bass fishing. “Striped bass are often misunderstood,” explains Sarah. “They’re a native species and a true conservation success story. Developing this fishery could bring enormous economic benefits to our region.” 

With an eye on future expansion, including possibilities like hunting and backcountry skiing, the couple remains focused on offering fishing adventures. “We want this lodge to be more than just a business. In the off-season, we hope it becomes a community hub – a place where locals feel just as welcome as guests from away,” she underlines. 

When asked about why they chose to build their lodge in Cascapedia-St. Jules, Sarah says, “I feel like this place is special. We both felt that it was important to bring the old Nadeau House back to life and to give as much, if not more, back to the community that I’ve gotten so much from. And Andrew, although he’s not from here, he really loves this place, and it’s our home!’ 

Sarah and Andrew got married on May 31, in what they described as a “beautiful and joyful celebration.” What began as a fishing adventure has turned into a heartfelt business venture and a new chapter for a young couple, whose love of fishing, nature, and the community of Cascapedia-St. Jules has given them many reasons to build an exciting future together. 

New Fishing Lodge Brings Passion, Tourism, and community spirit Read More »

Gaspé Municipal Update: Septic sludge, waterworks, Tourist Street and beach management 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPE – The Town of Gaspé is addressing major infrastructure and environmental challenges, including sludge treatment, shoreline protection, beach management, and water supply. 

Septic Tank Sludge 

Gaspé is studying the possibility of treating some of the septic tank sludge in the future aerated wastewater treatment ponds in Rivière-au-Renard. 

The town sends its sludge to Chandler through an agreement with the Régie de traitement des matières résiduelles de la Gaspésie and to Matane when Chandler can no longer process it. 

“Perhaps we would be able to treat some of our septic tank sludge without any negative impact. At the same time, we could save on transportation costs to the Chandler and Matane sites,” Mr. Côté calculates. 

Sludge from the northern sector and end-of-season overflows could be treated in Rivière-au-Renard. If the studies are conclusive, Gaspé will ask the Quebec government if any assistance is available. 

Municipalization in 2015 remains a good move for residents, as their bills have been cut in half compared to private companies. 

Tourist Street 

Discussions are continuing between Gaspé and the Ministry of Public Security to convince the Quebec Government to protect the entirety of Tourist Street in the Anse-à-Valleau area. 

The Quebec government is proposing to protect a central area where the majority of the erosion is occurring. “If we don’t fully protect the bank, we’ll end up with erosion that will double, triple, or quadruple at the ends of the riprap. We’re shifting the problem. It’s a basic logic, supported by engineers and scientists, that we must install the entire riprap if we want to avoid problems later,” the mayor emphasizes. 

The town wants the Quebec government to pay 75% of the bill for protecting the entire area. The municipal council awarded a $644,000 contract to carry out the engineering work last June. Significant damage occurred following a violent storm in December 2016. 

Beach Leases 

Gaspé intends to sign a new lease with the Ministry of the Douglastown, Boom Defense, and Haldimand beaches for the summer of 2025. 

In 2020, during the pandemic, the beaches were overflowing with people who had no qualms about the environment. 

The Micmac Nation of Gespeg is also involved, “We worked with the Gespeg First Nation and the Ministry of Natural Resources to strengthen prevention efforts to facilitate beach maintenance and make life easier for people. But this is conditional on the lease renewal,” explains Mr. Côté. The Nation’s ancestral rights are taken into account in the leases to be signed, following a positive meeting with the band council. The leases would be for one year, in order to further deepen the partnership between the Nation and the Town of Gaspé. 

Water in Anse-au-Griffon 

Gaspé will have to rely on surface water collection to supply the water system in the Anse-au-Griffon sector. Groundwater research over the past several years has never yielded good results. The study will help find the best location to draw water from the river. “The Anse-au-Griffon River isn’t very far away. But where is the best location? How should we get our water, the best technique? That’s what the engineering firm in charge of the project must evaluate,” says Mr. Côté. 

A treatment plant will be necessary to treat the water. A few dozen homes will need to be served. “If we prorate the number of residents served versus government requirements and costs, there is obviously a distortion, but the bill is borne by all residents served in the greater Gaspé region,” says the mayor. A partnership with a private company was ruled out because the process would have been complicated. The mayor is eager to finally turn the page. 

Gaspé Municipal Update: Septic sludge, waterworks, Tourist Street and beach management  Read More »

Winter Cruises: A resounding success, says Escale Gaspésie 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – Escale Gaspésie reports that their first winter cruise season in Gaspé “Exceeded all expectations.” 

The Commandant Charcot, a ship owned by Le Ponant, made five stopovers at the Sandy Beach wharf, helping Gaspé stand out as the second port of choice on the tour. 

This winter 527 passengers and 758 crew members visited Gaspé, generating direct economic spinoffs of approximately $140,000. This represents an average of $271.11 per passenger, more than double the average for the 2024 regular summer season, estimated at $107.62 per passenger. 

Winter cruise passengers paid a weekly average of $30,000 for access to the ship, and a total of 842 excursions were booked, demonstrating a strong interest in the region’s winter offerings. 

“We were nervous at first.” admitted Escale manager Igor Urban. “On January 21, we had no ice or snow. We started with an atypical winter that required a lot of adjustments, but thanks to that, we demonstrated the full potential and, above all, the flexibility of our winter destination. We offered six tours instead of three,” explains Mr. Urban. A highlight of this season: winter stopovers lasted an average of 35 hours, much longer than the usual 6 to 10 hours in summer. The last stopover of the season took place on March 8 and 9. 

Escale Gaspésie is already preparing for future winter seasons, with three stopovers booked for 2027. “For now, they’ve booked a 24-hour slot. What’s likely to change is a shift in the direction of stopovers toward weekends, allowing for the opportunity to take advantage of the facilities at Mont Béchervaise, for example. There were 145 crew members who enjoyed the mountains during two different stops. This proved that it might be worthwhile to come on weekends,” says Mr. Urban. 

If the ships arrived on weekends, the stopover could be extended to 48 hours.  “That’s our wish, and that’s what the captain and the excursion manager have observed.” They realize that 24 hours isn’t enough. There’s so much to do that they realize it’s worth staying, and it makes the passengers happy. It’s a unique experience. 24 hours was already out of the ordinary, and now we’ve managed to average 35 hours at our destination. The goal is to get people to stay longer,” hopes Mr. Urban. 

Another first-of-its-kind outcome was the delivery of 32 pallets of supplies that the ship received during three of its stops. In addition, some of these supplies included locally sourced products from Gaspé. “It’s a big first for us. A big step forward. It’s proof that we’re capable of doing it. It also helped create ties with Gaspésie Gourmande and put Gaspé products on their plates.” This can help ensure a much greater interest in cruises, within the community,” emphasizes Mr. Urban. 

Among the activities most appreciated by cruise passengers: snowshoeing in Forillon Park and discovering Mi’gmaq culture, including Mi’gmaq shows and traditional Quebec music on board the ship. 

Commandant Charcot’s visit to Gaspé has resonated as far away as Europe.  “The media coverage is incredible. We hope to increase sales for 2027. Other cruise lines were also following what was happening. With what we’ve just achieved, maybe we’ll have other ships,” dreams Mr. Urban. 

Escale Gaspésie is now gearing up for the 2025 summer cruise season, which will feature 19 confirmed ships and an expected 12,579 passengers. 

“We’re looking forward to a slightly milder season.” Cruises sell out three years in advance. In 2022, we had a lull at Escale Gaspésie. We have 19, compared to the 22 or 24 we were used to. We see that in 2026, we already have 25 ships planned,” says the station manager. 

Winter Cruises: A resounding success, says Escale Gaspésie  Read More »

Reclaiming our roots: Can Traditional Farming Save the Gaspésie? 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Arthur Poirier-Roy, LJI Journalist

PASPEBIAC – Gaspésie, a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant tourism, faces a quiet crisis. While tourists flock to the coast, drawn by the promise of authenticity and local flavour, the very foundation of that appeal – small, traditional farms – is crumbling under the weight of an outdated agricultural model. Many farmers, like a young farmer from the Baie-des-Chaleurs, are struggling to survive, caught between the rising costs of industrial agriculture and the bureaucratic hurdles that favour large-scale operations. 

This farmer, who wishes to remain anonymous, paints a stark picture of the challenges facing his family farm. “In Quebec,” he explains, “We don’t see farming as a way to feed ourselves, but as a path to wealth.” This shift in perspective, he argues, is at the heart of the problem. A century ago, farms were family endeavors, not businesses. They operated on a circular model, integrating crops, livestock, and natural resources in a self-sustaining cycle. This fostered a deep understanding of soil health and ecosystem function, a hands-on knowledge passed down through generations. 

The 20th century brought a revolution, heralded by Nobel laureates Fritz Haber, Carl Bosch, and Norman Borlaug, whose innovations in fertilizers and plant breeding dramatically increased yields. Famine became less of a threat, but agriculture transformed into a business. The focus shifted from feeding communities to maximizing profits. Monocultures, mechanization, and pesticides became the norm, slowly eroding the rich biodiversity of traditional farming. 

A new generation seeks to return to smaller, environmentally friendly models, preserving both traditional knowledge and unique crop and animal varieties. But they face significant obstacles. One major hurdle is the mandatory union membership with the UPA required for registered farms. The hefty fees are manageable only for those who scale their operations, prioritizing industrial farming over traditional methods. 

Furthermore, union regulations often restrict on-farm slaughtering, forcing farmers to transport animals to distant facilities, adding to costs and pushing them to sell their meat in cities rather than locally. Ironically, studies, including one from the University of Córdoba, demonstrate that on-farm slaughter often results in better animal welfare and hygiene due to reduced stress. 

For the Gaspé Peninsula, this is particularly troubling. The region’s tourism industry thrives on the promise of unique, local products. Small traditional farms are the backbone of this appeal. Beyond the environmental concerns surrounding industrial agriculture, allowing farmers to return to their roots would revitalize the region’s economy and preserve its unique character. It’s a matter of supporting a sustainable model that benefits both the planet and the people of the Gaspésie. 

The union’s focus on registered businesses also leaves smaller farms invisible, preventing them from accessing crucial support and making it nearly impossible to break even. And the shift from inheriting farms to purchasing them adds another layer of financial burden, as the real estate costs are considerable. 

This shift has left many Gaspésie farmers struggling to adapt. How are they navigating this complex landscape? How are they balancing tradition with the demands of a changing climate? In upcoming articles, we’ll speak with local farmers about their experiences, exploring the innovative ways they’re adapting their practices to survive and thrive in this challenging era. Do you have a story to share about farming in Gaspésie? We invite you to write to the Gaspé Spec if you’d like to contribute to this important conversation 

Reclaiming our roots: Can Traditional Farming Save the Gaspésie?  Read More »

Quebec Winter Carnival triumphs over the weather

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Quebec Winter Carnival triumphs over the weather

Cassandra Kerwin, LJI reporter

Quebec Winter Carnival triumphs over the weather  

Cassandra Kerwin

Cassandra@qctonline.com

Not even a blizzard or two could keep people from enjoying the 71st Winter Carnival. Organizers pulled out all the stops to create another memorable and successful edition. 

The 71st Winter Carnival closed on Feb. 16 with the traditional St-Hubert Snow Bath. Men and women wearing nothing but swimsuits, tuques and boots jumped into a pile of snow surrounded by a warmly dressed cheering crowd. “Every year, we come to Quebec City and the carnival as a family trip. This year, I had to call my husband’s bluff,” said Sarah O’Malley from Atlanta, Georgia. “He says he never gets cold. So I signed him up for the Snow Bath.” After watching the first of two waves of people, smiling from ear to ear, he dove right into the snow to make a snow angel.

Local artist and muralist Phelipe Soldevila supervised Graff the Ice Palace. “It is pretty crazy. It is actually something we had done unofficially [in 2018] when I and my artist friends were hired to create live art. It is great to see it officially part of the carnival,” he said. “Everyone is enjoying themselves, which is the main objective. It really shows you that art sometimes is not about the end result and more about the process.” 

Tagging and painting graffiti on the Ice Palace was a popular activity. Even the executive director of the carnival, Marie-Eve Jacob and program director Jérôme Déchêne added their creative touches. Throughout the carnival, they visited the sites and participated in numerous activities and events. 

“This year, we continued to root our vision, which is to offer extraordinary activities that cannot be done outside the carnival and that defy conventions,” said Jacob. “The sold-out rappelling on the Château Frontenac and the Popunderwear Carnival White Night at the Cercle de la Garnison are good examples of this. We aim to balance these extravagances with the traditions that have made the event’s reputation, but that we enhance by constantly evolving them, such as the Palais de Bonhomme and the night parades.”

“We make a conscious effort to reach a variety of clientele,” added Déchêne. “For example, we had activities for families during the day and young adults in the evening, in addition to offering programming that is popular and festive, sometimes contemplative. We tend towards a very interesting balance that allows us to affirm that there is something for everyone at the Quebec Winter Carnival.”

“Quebec City was the number one destination in Canada during the two carnival weekends with an occupancy rate of 85 per cent the first weekend and for now, we’re looking at 90 per cent for the last weekend,” said Déchêne. 

Organizers mentioned that musicians, entertainers and spectators loved the shows under the Dome for the second consecutive year. The night parades attracted large crowds from start to finish. Large crowds watched 54 teams participate in the ice canoe race across the St. Lawrence River for the 130th year and 70th carnival race. The official sites, Zone Loto-Québec, Zone Kraft Jukebox and Scotiabank Sculpture Garden always had a good flow of people. None of this would have been possible without the dedication and loyalty of the 450 volunteers. 

For those who want more, there’s the Télé-Québec (in French) six-episode documentary series La fièvre des festivals which invites you to take a behind-the-scenes look at the Quebec Winter Carnival, the Francos de Montréal, the Festif! de Baie-Saint-Paul and the St-Tite Western Festival.

The Quebec Winter Carnival will be back from Feb. 6 to 15, 2026.

Quebec Winter Carnival triumphs over the weather Read More »

Dredging is needed again at the Percé wharf 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

PERCÉ – A new dredging session is planned this year at the Percé wharf. The Quebec Ministry of Transport says the work should take place towards the end of April to avoid delaying the start of the fishing season and the arrival of tourism activities. 

Since the plans and specifications are still being finalized, the exact quantities to be dredged remain to be confirmed. Unlike in previous years, the Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie Port Corporation will coordinate this operation in 2025. 

Regarding long-term solutions to prevent the fishing harbour from silting up, the ministry indicates that the hydro-sedimentary surveys, including raw bathymetry and topography data, will be analyzed by the engineering firm responsible for studies to design a sustainable solution for the Percé wharf. 

The ministry continues to actively seek a sustainable resolution to the erosion and silting problems. “The first step will consist of conducting specialized studies, such as a coastal marine hydraulic study, a coastal sediment transport study, an agitation and navigability study, as well as a comparison of scenarios based on a multi-criteria analysis,” the ministry wrote in an email. 

These studies are scheduled to begin in the winter of 2025. For the moment, there is no precise timetable for their duration due to the need for government authorizations. 

Dredging work at the Percé wharf costs between $350,000 and $450,000 annually. They have been necessary since 2021, following the completion of the wharf reconstruction in 2020, which was transferred by the federal government to the Government of Quebec. 

Furthermore, on the protective wall inside the fishing harbour that protects a SÉPAQ building and, to a certain extent, nearby rue du Mont-Joli, the ministry notes that the facilities do not belong to it. However, the ministry conducted emergency work in 2024 to protect the wall’s integrity. Rock was thus added behind the wall, in sections particularly exposed to the impact of waves and at risk for its stability. The ministry also plans to consolidate the front of the wall to prevent any subsidence. 

Since this work will take place in a coastal zone and a historic area, environmental authorizations, as well as from the Ministry of Culture and Communications will be required. 

According to the ministry, taking into account the time needed to obtain these authorizations and to finalize the plans and specifications, the stabilization work should be completed in 2026. 

“It is important to note that despite this work, one of the SÉPAQ buildings remains at risk during storms. Also, the loss of boardwalk equipment caused by waves during storms is a phenomenon that is likely to recur. However, it is not within the MTSM’s (Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility) mandate to ensure the maintenance of the boardwalk,” states the ministry’s note. 

The emergency work carried out behind the retaining wall cost approximately $240,000. Mayor Daniel Leboeuf expressed concern on the sidelines of the January town council meeting about the integrity of the structure. “The end of this promenade has been affected. Even the emergency work is starting to fail. We are losing large sections of it,” says the mayor. “We will have to see if we will not have to find another solution,” he suggested. 

Dredging is needed again at the Percé wharf  Read More »

The 71st Winter Carnival is open

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Cassandra Kerwin

cassandra@qctonline.com

The 71st Quebec Winter Carnival is now open! From Feb. 7 to 16, people will celebrate winter in all its glory. They will skate with Bonhomme, visit his Ice Palace, dance in the Kraft Juke Box, tour the garden of ice sculptures, watch the night parades and enjoy the many partner activities. There is something to please everyone.

“I am very proud to see everyone here assembled to celebrate the opening of the 71st Winter Carnival, to celebrate winter and the cold,” said Bonhomme. “I hope to see you at the Carnival.”

As tradition demanded, May- or Bruno Marchand handed Bonhomme the key to the city at the opening ceremony on Feb. 7. “I want you to take good care of our city because it is the most beautiful winter city in the world, as stated by people from all over the world! You are the master of the city over the next ten days!” With those words, Marchand handed Bonhomme a giant brass key, officially opening the Winter Carnival.

Inspired by the falling snow, MNA for Montmorency Jean- François Simard quoted Gilles Vigneault, “‘Mon pays ce n’est pas un pays, c’est l’hiver,’” he said. “Quebec City and Quebecers love winter. There is no winter in Quebec City without the Winter Carnival! There is no Winter Carnival without Bonhomme.” He continued, “Bonhomme, you have been bringing us joy and sun every winter for 71 years! Every year, we are happy to see you again! On behalf of the Quebec government, I wish you all a wonderful Carnival.”

After the ceremony, the stage was set for the opening show, featuring stand-up comic and singer Mariana Mazza and her guests. Wearing a red fake-fur hat, a Nordiques jacket and moon boots, Mazza had the crowd laughing to her quick wit and vulgar jokes and dancing and singing along with her Bon Jovi covers, “Living on a Prayer” and “It’s My Life.” She asked the crowd not to blow their horns, to which a spectator objected, adding an unexpected comical dialogue to the show. The rest of the show was a mixture of jokes, songs and dance moves performed by Véronique Claveau, Erika Suarez, Rafaëlle Roy, King Melrose and Émily Bégin. Until Feb. 16, anyone with a Carnival effigy can tour the Ice Palace at Zone Loto-Québec (Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale), the ice sculpture garden (Parc de la Francophonie) or the giant Philadelphia Ferris Wheel in the Kraft Jukebox (Place George-V). In Lower Town, visit Bonhomme’s Beach behind Espace 400. There are over 50 partner events and activities throughout the Quebec City region.

For more information, visit carnaval.qc.ca.

The 71st Winter Carnival is open Read More »

Ateliers du Carnaval pull back curtain on night parades

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Ateliers du Carnaval pull back curtain on night parades

Cassandra Kerwin, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

Ateliers du Carnaval pull back the curtain on night parades

Cassandra Kerwin, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

cassandra@qctonline.com

Over the past weeks, the staff at Les Ateliers du Carnaval has been working hard to create and restore the iconic floats in preparation for the legendary night parades.

On Feb. 3, reporters were invited to tour the various workshops as staff put the finishing touches on the floats and dancers practised their moves for the parades.

The Ateliers du Carnaval is where the magic of the Winter Carnival is brought to life year after year. It is where 500 people, including 350 artists and artisans, spend 3,000 hours creating temporary art in the dead of winter. With a few coats of paint, some sculpted wood and lots of plywood, the wheeled platforms are transformed into different worlds: Bonhomme’s icemobile, Flip Fabrique’s acrobatic zone, Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Shadows float and much more.

On the evening of Feb. 15, residents who missed the Feb. 8 Lower Town Night Parade (see article in this edition) can see the floats come to life at the Upper Town parade, with lights, music and performers, and the nine sequences directed by 11 artistic directors. There will be something for everyone: circus performances, dancers, lights, music and even pyrotechnics. To enjoy the full experience, spectators are reminded to dress warmly and bring their Carnival trumpets and other noisemakers.

The massive 16-foot-high Ubisoft float will capture everyone’s attention. Inspired by the soon-to-be-released action-adventure video game Assassin’s Creed Shadows, this float resembles a traditional Japanese house. The Assassin’s Creed logo is added to the hanging lanterns.

In an adjacent workshop, workers were building Bonhomme’s float. On the day of the tour, there was little to see. Reporters, like the rest of the public, will have to wait for the parades to see the complete show.

The Feb. 15 Upper Town parade starts at 7 p.m. on Grande Allée from Avenue des Érables.

For more information about the parades and other Carnival events, visit carnaval.qc.ca/en.

Ateliers du Carnaval pull back curtain on night parades Read More »

The federal government provides support for winter cruise ships

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI

Cruise Association is receiving funding from the federal government to continue its activities for the next four years, including the development of winter cruises. 

Canada Economic Development will provide $1,860,000 to the organization, awarded by the Minister of Public Services and Procurement, Jean-Yves Duclos, taking advantage of the visit of the first winter cruise aboard the Commandant Charcot to the Port of Quebec City. The vessel had stopped in Gaspé on January 21. 

A first non-refundable installment of $960,000 is part of the renewal of the association’s support. This funding will cover a period of four years, and will allow the organization to support businesses in developing and structuring the tourism offering and marketing outside Quebec, in collaboration with the Quebec Ministry of Tourism, the Quebec Tourism Industry Alliance and ecosystem partners. 

The second non-refundable portion, totalling $900,000, will help the association promote a new winter cruise offer and improve the cruise tourism offering in Quebec. 

This funding will support a dozen tourism businesses in the regions, including five cruise stopovers, four of which are in the regions of the Magdalen Islands, Gaspé, Sept-Îles and Saguenay, in addition to the Quebec stopover, which serves as the port of embarkation and disembarkation for cruise passengers. 

With this support, local businesses and tourism organizations throughout the province will benefit from financial assistance to enhance their tourism products and experiences, helping to attract more visitors to the regions. 

“The support from Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions has allowed us to support stopover organizations so that they can equip themselves with essential equipment and infrastructure to improve the offering and ensure the comfort and safety of reception staff operating in winter conditions. The renewal of our agreement will also allow us to continue to support companies in the sector for the development of cruises in Quebec,” commented René Trépanier, General Manager of Croisières du Saint-Laurent. 

Gaspé is scheduled to receive four more stops by the Commandant Charcot this winter, bringing a total of approximately 500 passengers for this first experience. If successful, the ship may return to the St. Lawrence in 2027. 

The federal government provides support for winter cruise ships Read More »

Bonhomme’s ice palace days away from being ready

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Bonhomme’s Ice Palace is days away from being ready

Cassandra Kerwin

Cassandra@qctonline.com

From Feb. 7 to 16, visitors with Quebec Winter Carnival effigies can walk among the eight towers of Bonhomme’s Ice Palace and marvel at their height, with the tallest tower reaching 36 feet (nearly 11 metres). It took more than 17 days for snow and ice sculptor Marc Lepire and his team of 10 builders to complete the “Nordic sanctuary” using 2,800 ice blocks, each weighing 300 pounds and measuring 40 inches by 20 inches by 10.5 inches. Once completed, the Ice Palace will cover 5,800 square feet. Be sure to dress warmly when you visit it, because Bonhomme likes it cold, with ideal temperatures between -10 and -15. 

“There aren’t many people who build ice walls,” said Lepire, who has been building a new Ice Palace for Bonhomme every year for 13 years. “The first year I did it, there were 22 of us, and this year there are 10. I had to adapt and find the right people to do it.

“After last year’s abnormally warm weather forced us to close the site early, we had to rethink the structure and the effects of the sun on the ice, even in February,” said Lepire. “This year, we thought of the palace differently – the corners of the towers, the strongest parts, are oriented toward the sun. We hope it will last throughout the Carnival if temperatures remain below -5 degrees.” 

Quebec’s winter wildlife inspired Lepire and designer Jean-François Couture as they decorated the palace. Visitors will discover ice sculpted into moose, trees, owls, traditional snow boots, ceinture fléchée sashes and more. After sunset, everything is lit by colourful LED lights, bringing life to all the sculptures. 

“It’s truly a representation of Bonhomme’s one and only great love: winter,” said  Carnival director Marie-Ève ​​Jacob. “Lepire and his team finished the exterior of the palace a few days ago and now they are working on the interior. Thanks to their skills in sculpting, visitors will discover eight unique towers. The first one represents the snowflake, because Bonhomme was born from a snowflake. At the end, we have a lookout, to see the site from a bird’s eye view. It will truly be another wonderful Carnival experience.”

Visitors must have a Carnival effigy to visit the Zone Loto-Québec. The effigy, available for $39 plus tax, is valid for entry to all the carnival sites from Feb. 7-16. For more information, visit carnaval.qc.ca.

Bonhomme’s ice palace days away from being ready Read More »

Percé budgets for its Tourist Information Office for 2025

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

PERCÉ – The Town of Percé is putting funding for the Tourist Information Office back into its budget in 2025. Funding for the Tourist Information Office was removed when the 2024 budget was tabled, a position that council had revised to keep it open thereafter. 

“Last year, funds were taken from the unallocated surplus to maintain the service. Council learned its lesson and put the budget back into a new operating mode with an additional person and a little less promotional budget. We are continuing discussions with merchants to transfer part of the management of tourist information to them. It targets their customers, but it’s not over yet,” explains Mayor Daniel Leboeuf, who emphasizes that this is a transition year. 

The town adopted a budget that increased by 6%, bringing the total to $8 million. 

Percé is seeing its equalization and QST transfers increase by 166%, reaching $519,000. This helps save taxpayers despite the filing of a new assessment roll that increases the municipality’s real estate wealth by 52% for residential properties. 

For example, the average home has had an increase in value from $117,000 to $178,000, but the overall increase in the tax bill is only 2%, since the tax rate was lowered from $1.34 to $0.90 per $100 of assessment. 

“It’s good for someone who wants to sell their home, but not for paying taxes. That’s why we adjusted the rate,” explains the elected official. 

Only the rates for wastewater treatment are increasing from $295 to $350, while the citizens of Cap-d’Espoir see the bill increase from $350 to $400. 

A reserve of $300,000 has been created for personnel management. “Also for recruitment. There is a shortage of managers in key positions. Our clerk is going to retire. We need to recruit a new one. There are resources that will come to help us with recruitment. It is better to plan for more than less,” notes the mayor. 

The town must also renew the collective agreement of its unionized employees and conduct an organizational diagnosis as requested by the Quebec Municipal Commission in its devastating report on municipal management. 

The unallocated surplus is $750,000, but the town would like to see that surplus increased. “Ideally, it should be increased by about $300,000 or $400,000. Last year, we used it several times for some $360,000. It made us fall below the waterline. We have to go back above the waterline,” says Mr. Leboeuf. 

The three-year capital plan includes expenses totalling $8.4 million, including $4.2 million allocated for road network maintenance and $1.5 million for the renewal of the pipes on Biard and Mont-Joli streets, starting in 2025. 

“The council presented its resolutions last year, and some projects were abandoned. We are focusing on preserving our infrastructure while improving others,” justifies the mayor. 

Percé budgets for its Tourist Information Office for 2025 Read More »

MRC invites farmers to participate in silos project

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Sarah Rennie – LJI reporter

The MRC du Haut-Saint-Laurent is hoping that work on the first murals to be painted on silos as part of a regional network will start over the coming summer.

At least 18 producers and individuals interested in the project, including members of the local UPA syndicate and representatives from the MRC and local municipalities, were present during a December 5 meeting where the project was formally introduced to the farm community.

While large-scale mural projects are not necessarily rare, this is first and only project that involves painting silos in Quebec. In an optimal scenario, the MRC is planning on creating three loops in strategic areas throughout the territory. The goal is to complete seven murals in 2025 and a further seven in 2026 to complete the network.

Nancy Brunelle, the cultural coordinator for the MRC, said the meeting was a good start. “We are quite pleased. For a first meeting, this is a success for us,” she commented.

After a brief presentation outlining the project, Brunelle introduced Robert Lalande of the Ferme Robert et Louise Lalande in Alfred, Ontario, which became part of the Popsilos project in 2020. He provided pertinent information and context for the MRC’s initiative.

Following this, two representatives from the Montreal-based social design firm Ohisse, which has been mandated to manage the project with the MRC, ran a brief workshop where interested property owners could locate their farms on a map.

“I put my name in as soon as I saw it,” said producer Bill Anderson, who added his Très-Saint-Sacrement farm to the map. “I just find it nice for the Haut-Saint-Laurent,” he added, suggesting he really liked the uniqueness of the project.

The endeavour has the support of the Ministère des Affaires Municipales et de l’Habitation. The MRC has budgeted $614,000 for the project in 2025 using Fonds Régions et Ruralité component-three funds dedicated to signature innovations.

The MRC expects it will cost from $50,000 to over $100,000 per silo. Brunelle said the MRC is also hoping to involve local artists in the project, during both the design and production stages.

Interested producers have until January 10 to complete and submit a participation questionnaire identifying the type of structure available, as well as the material and state of the surface to be painted. The form is available online at mrchsl.com/silos.

MRC invites farmers to participate in silos project Read More »

SIA calls for a regular trail maintenance program 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

International Appalachian Trail (SIA) on the Côte-de-Gaspé would like to obtain a recurring program for its maintenance after spending $30,000 over the last two years to clear the trail following severe wind events. 

Jean-Marc Hardy, a member of the SIA board of directors, would like the Quebec government to create a program like the one set up to maintain the Route verte for cyclists. 

The December 2023 storm cost the local committee $10,000, thanks in part to volunteer contributions. Without this support, expenses might have reached nearly $20,000. This figure excludes other Gaspé sectors of the trail. 

Fortunately, the MRC de la Côte-de-Gaspé, the Town of Gaspé and Desjardins assisted due to the storm’s exceptional impact. 

“Usually, for regular trail maintenance, there is never anyone who wants to help us,” notes Mr. Hardy. 

A similar storm in December 2022 cost $20,000. “The fact that it happens two years in a row when the recurrence is perhaps two to three times in 100 years, that it happens two years in a row, we can be tempted to link it with climate change and the future does not look any rosier,” says Mr. Hardy. 

After two large storms in two years, the trail managers hope that the forest around the trail has been adequately cleared. “With climate change and the spruce budworm, and what doesn’t help us, logging changes the dynamics of the winds around the trail. All that put together, we’re not sure we’ll get a break, but we still hope so,” he says. 

To address these challenges, trail managers have requested recurring funding from the Ministry of Transportation. 

“Based on the principle of the Route verte, long hikes are one of the sustainable means of transportation that should be encouraged but, to encourage them, we still have to support the organizations that manage the trails. We are asking to try to have a budget that could work like the Route verte. We would be sure to get a helping hand every year,” says Mr. Hardy. 

Such recurring funding would allow for preventive measures along the trails. 

Following last December’s windstorms, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forests reported that 5,408 hectares of forest were devastated in Haute-Gaspésie, the only place where windthrow was observed. 

This summer the ministry recalculated these figures using satellite images. 

Of the total, 3,186 hectares of forest on public lands and 582 hectares on private lands were devastated by more than 75%. 

Additionally, 1,329 hectares of public lands and 311 hectares of private land experienced partial windthrow, where 25 to 75% of trees were affected. Areas with less than 25% tree loss were not counted. 

SIA calls for a regular trail maintenance program  Read More »

‘Enweille dehors!’ ‘Go outside!’ for the 71st Winter Carnival

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‘Enweille dehors!’ ‘Go outside!’ for the 71st Winter Carnival

Cassandra Kerwin, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

cassandra@qctonline.com

‘Enweille dehors!’ ‘Go outside!’ for the 71st Winter Carnival

Cassandra Kerwin

cassandra@qctonline.com

Go outside! That was Bonhomme Carnaval’s order for the 71st Winter Carnival from Feb. 7 to 16. Now that snow has started to cover Quebec City, Bonhomme and his team are putting the pedal to the metal in preparing for the beloved winter festival.

Carnival energy was buzzing at the newly refurbished Maurice Restaurant on Nov. 28. The official program was announced, revealing a bundle of new and traditional activities and events. The exclusive Garrison Club will host an all-night pyjama party (Feb. 15). Experienced climbers will have the opportunity to rappel down the Château Frontenac on Feb. 8 and 9 (spaces are limited). At Place George-V, enjoy the view and music from the Philadelphia Ferris Wheel or dance to music at the Kraft Jukebox. On the last day of the celebrations – Feb. 16 – graffiti artists are invited to leave their mark on the Ice Palace.

The night parades will return on Feb. 8 in Charlesbourg and Feb. 15 on Grande Allée. Place de l’Assemblée-Nationale will be transformed into the Zone Loto-Québec with Bonhomme’s Ice Palace and its eight towers. The snow sculpture garden in Place de la Francophonie, the Calgary Flapjack Breakfast on Grande Allée (Feb. 8) and the Ice Canoe Race (Feb. 9) will also attract a crowd.

The popular music and dance dome near the Ice Palace will welcome a variety of performers, including Mariana Mazza and her guests on opening night, Habstrakt (Feb. 8), a New Country party (Feb. 12), Eman and Souldia (Feb. 13), David Pineau and Sara Dufour (Feb. 14) and Karma Kameleons (Feb. 15). Carnival-goers might also spot Bonhomme skating on weekends at the Place D’Youville ice rink.

After so much partying, Bonhomme will need a bath. Anyone brave enough to take a dip in the snow can join him for the Snow Bath on Feb. 16 at 2 p.m. at the Tourny Fountain “Whether it’s cold, chilly, sunny or stormy, Bonhomme’s invitation is clear: Get outside!” said Marie-Eve Jacob, general manager of the Quebec Winter Carnival. “In addition to the beloved classics, several extravagant new features are being added to experience our winter differently. During the day, our program is family- oriented, while in the evening, we switch to festive mode!”

Carnival-goers 13 and older need to purchase this year’s effigy to have access to the sites. Until Jan. 12, it is on sale for $25 plus tax at participating Couche-Tard stores and online. From Jan. 13, it will be priced at $39 plus tax. This year, for collectors, there are two versions: the more readily available yellow effigy and the harder-to-find blue effigy.

For more information and to see the full program, visit carnaval.qc.ca/en.

‘Enweille dehors!’ ‘Go outside!’ for the 71st Winter Carnival Read More »

Marchand, Schuldt, Krampus launch German Christmas Market festivities

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Marchand, Schuldt, Krampus launch German Christmas Market festivities

Cassandra Kerwin

cassandra@qctonline.com

The 17th German Christmas Market is now open! Until Dec. 23, locals and tourists can savour German flavours, mulled wine, gingerbread and pretzels, and enjoy puppet shows and parades featuring Saint Nicholas and the Krampus. Even Santa Claus – the real one – will stop in to hear children’s Christmas wishes.

Despite the lack of snow, Old Quebec City has trans- formed into a magical Christ- mas village. The wooden cabins decorated with pine branches and lights create a path from Place D’Youville to the Jardins de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, Rue Sainte- Anne and Place d’Armes. The designers of the sites added something different to each one, such as stained glass birdhouse lanterns opposite the Cathedral-Basilica Notre-Dame de Québec, and a light-and-sound show amid a fir-tree backdrop developed by Clemens Schuldt, the musical director of the Orchestre Symphonique de Québec, who officially launched the show.

During the opening ceremony on Nov. 21, Britta Kröger, president of the German Christmas Market, said, “I would like to greet those who have come from far away. I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being so loyal for 17 years. Compared to the 400 years of history of Christmas markets in Germany, we still have a long way to go, but we’re getting there! Come several times, and each time, you’ll discover something new.”

“I hope you share this Christmas magic with many people,” said Mayor Bruno Marchand. “Britta Kröger believed in it 17 years ago, and year after year, she works hard to make it happen, and we thank her and her team for that.”

To hear a memorable Christmas story, find a seat at the Theaterplatz for the popular French-language marionette show Un Krampus au Village. The story suddenly springs to life as Krampuses, Saint Nicholas, an angel, an accordion player and a ringmaster parade through the market. According to European folklore, Saint Nicholas, the Krampus and an angel visit children on Dec. 5, Krampusnacht, to either give gifts to the good children or beat the naughty ones with a stick. In Quebec City, the Krampus is more of a prankster, handing out potatoes and onions and making people smile and laugh.

Weather permitting, giant marionettes of Saint Nicholas and Krampus will depart from Place D’Youville at 7 p.m. on Nov. 30 and Dec. 14, parading up Rue Saint-Jean to the Cathedral-Basilica. This always attracts a large crowd who marvel at the marionettes that seem to come alive in the torchlight.

Over the next three weeks, the German Christmas Market offers a packed schedule – arts and crafts workshops, games and puzzles in the Kinder- chalet Ravensburger; choirs singing carols in Place Royale and on Avenue Cartier; and live music in Place D’Youville. Be- tween activities, taste and sa- vour German-inspired dishes, and drinks like glühwein (hot wine with spices), schnapps and hot cider. The sites are open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Thursday to Sunday (clos- ing at 6 p.m. on Sundays), and exceptionally on Monday, Dec. 23, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. The light show takes place once an hour after nightfall in front of the grove of fir trees near the basilica.

For more information, visit mnaq.ca/en/program.

Marchand, Schuldt, Krampus launch German Christmas Market festivities Read More »

Bonhomme Carnaval opens his Winter Beach starting Dec. 21

QCNA NEWS / / / , , ,

Bonhomme Carnaval opens his Winter Beach starting Dec. 21

Cassandra Kerwin, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

cassandra@qctonline.com

Even though summer is over, it will soon be time to go to the beach! That’s right! Bonhomme Carnaval is inviting everyone to join him at his Gougoune & Doudoune Winter Beach behind Espace Quatre Cents at 100 Quai Saint-André.

Bonhomme will open the frosty festivities here as early as Dec. 21. 

People can once again attempt to conquer the climbable giant iced polar bear, slide down the Blizz Slide, jump into the giant ball pool, try out the snow racer tri-ski trail, or compete in the ice canoe races (weather permitting). There will also be family activities such as mini-golf, beanbag games, snowboard swings and a small obstacle course.

“Even though this event is a production of the Ateliers du Carnaval, it is not part of the 71st Winter Carnival, from Feb. 7 to 16,” said Marie-Ève ​​Jacob, executive director of the Quebec Winter Carnival. This means that the effigie does not give access to the activities. Daily passes cost $15 plus taxes for children (12 and under) and $25 plus taxes for adults; and season passes cost $54 plus taxes for children (12 and under) and $79 plus taxes for adults.

“Our objective is to offer winter activities while waiting for the carnival to start,” said Jacob. “We want to enrich and liven up the city in December and January by offering locals and tourists a new attraction over a long period. It helps that the site is near the popular tourist areas of Place Royale and Quartier Petit Champlain. We are even setting up a shuttle service to get from major tourist areas including the German Christmas Market in Upper Town to our site. The schedule is yet to be finalized.” 

The site will be open throughout the holiday season, including on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, on all weekends from Jan. 11 to Feb. 5, and throughout Winter Carnival (Feb. 7 to 16). 

For more information, visit carnaval.qc.ca.

Bonhomme Carnaval opens his Winter Beach starting Dec. 21 Read More »

Caribou pilot project: 1,000 jobs at risk in Haute-Gaspésie according to study

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

SAINTE-ANNE-DES-MONTS – A study has concluded that approximately 1,000 jobs are at stake and that there could be a loss of economic spinoffs amounting to $23 million in Haute-Gaspésie if the pilot project to protect caribou, mentioned in the spring, was to be implemented in this territory without modifications. 

The document, commissioned by the Table des préfets, highlights concerns raised by the prefect of the MRC, Guy Bernatchez. “I want to emphasize regional solidarity even if it only affects Haute-Gaspésie,” the prefect immediately mentions. “It’s major. We have figures that speak for themselves. It’s big. We have been dreading it for a long time, but with the anticipated declines, it is major,” he noted. 

In recreational tourism, the anticipated loss could be as high as 89%. “I admit that it is even more than we thought. The predictability related to our businesses is major,” he says. 

This observation raises alarms about the potential disappearance of a sector that has been crucial for the MRC’s development over the past ten years. “Businesses will no longer be able to have predictability. We will no longer have it. We could talk about a loss of almost $23 million just for Haute-Gaspésie. It is major,” mentions Mr. Bernatchez. 

This study will be used to complete the brief that the MRC plans to submit during the public consultations on the pilot project. “Recreational tourism, forest management: together, that is more than 1,000 jobs, not to mention the wind industry. We want to position ourselves to have new wind farms. We have the best wind deposits in Quebec. We have social acceptability. We have to give ourselves the chance to be able to do it,” says the prefect. 

The MRC of Haute-Gaspésie has 550 kilometres of forest roads. “Our access roads to the territory will suffer in the ranges,” adds Mr. Bernatchez. 

“What we are describing, is a minimum of forest management could be done in the caribou range. During the night of December 18 to 19, 5,000 hectares of forest fell due to high winds. The moratorium should be lifted to recover this wood, and bring volumes to our plants. These areas could be redeveloped by our forestry companies. In the future, we will have forests that are favourable for caribou,” illustrates the prefect, who is a trained forest manager. 

“There is a central line between the economy and ecology to be reached,” says the prefect, who hopes that the Quebec government will listen to the community for the next steps in the brief that will be submitted. 

In June, the MRC had already expressed serious concerns after analyzing the documents submitted for public consultation as part of the pilot project targeting the Gaspésie caribou. 

The document was broadly presented on April 30 by the Minister of the Environment, Benoit Charette, during his visit to Sainte-Anne-des-Monts, where he presented the Caribou Protection Plan for the Gaspésie and Charlevoix regions. 

This plan, based on the recommendations of the Caribou Commission, was subject to a 90-day public consultation, which was extended until October 31, partly at the request of the MRC of Haute Gaspésie. This plan had received a mixed reception in the MRC, and its analysis confirms the community’s fears. 

The MRC had adopted a resolution at the time requesting two key elements from the government: Better communication with the population and a reconsideration of the proposed protection zones. 

The project indicated that the habitat zone under restoration represents 5,000 square kilometres, including the zone along the St. Lawrence River and some private woodlots. 

The prefect mentioned that this zone was disturbed up to 87% and the objective in the pilot project is to reduce it to 35%. 

Caribou pilot project: 1,000 jobs at risk in Haute-Gaspésie according to study Read More »

Striped bass are not a threat, according to the Department of Wildlife

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

GASPÉ – The striped bass is not considered one of the main threats to salmon in the Gaspé Peninsula according to the Department of the Environment, Fight against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks. 

While some anglers cite striped bass as a reason for the declining salmon runs, the department explains that the fear expressed by some stakeholders associated with the salmon fishing industry is linked to a scientific article published in 2018. This study assessed, using telemetry data, the consumption of smolts by striped bass in the Miramichi system in New Brunswick. 

“However, the main conclusion of this study is that predation rates by bass vary considerably from one year to the next and that the spatial and temporal overlap of the two species is a determining factor in this annual variation,” explains the department by email. 

“In addition, the situation is very different in Quebec, because the level of interaction between smolts and striped bass is much lower than that of the Miramichi. Indeed, studies show that the majority of smolts have already left the rivers when striped bass arrive at their mouths in the spring in the Gaspésie,” adds the ministry. 

Striped bass are opportunistic predators that feed on a wide variety of prey. Between 2014 and 2019, the ministry carried out several projects examining the diet of striped bass in Quebec. 

As observed across its range, the diet of striped bass consists of a wide variety of forage fish and crustaceans, as well as worms, insects and other invertebrates. 

A 2022 report confirms that striped bass in freshwater can consume a certain number of juvenile salmon in freshwater. “However, the presence of striped bass in the freshwater portion of the salmon rivers of the Gaspé is relatively limited and highly variable from year to year, thus minimizing the impact on salmon populations,” maintains the ministry, which adds that another study carried out in the Miramichi system and on the diet of striped bass, published in 2020, concludes that the narrow window of spatio-temporal overlap of the two species means that juvenile salmon represent an insignificant contribution to the striped bass diet. 

The report includes findings from a project carried out in 2016 and specifically focused on the diet of striped bass in areas conducive to the presence of juvenile American lobsters. 

This species was observed in the stomach contents of 16% of striped bass that had consumed prey. It represented 1.2% of the number of prey ingested and 13% of the total volume. However, the relevance of these findings is limited since the sampling targeted areas identified as “nurseries” for lobster, and lobsters were not found in the stomachs of striped bass caught elsewhere in the Gaspé Peninsula. 

As for crab, some were found in the stomach contents of striped bass analyzed as part of the department’s projects. 

However, they could not be identified as the species. Given their marine habitat preferences, it is unlikely that they are snow crabs, as they prefer deep and cold waters, while striped bass are more commonly found in coastal waters. 

“With regard to the low salmon runs observed in 2023 and 2024 in Quebec rivers, predation by striped bass is not one of the potential causes. The impact of significant predation, if any, would likely be felt locally on one or a few rivers concerned and not in a generalized manner throughout the species’ distribution area, as has been observed for two summers in Quebec,” explains the ministry. 

The striped bass observed in the Gaspé Peninsula mainly belongs to the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence population, whose main spawning ground is located in the Northwest Miramichi River. 

Their migration has been monitored via telemetrically since 2013, which allowed for an updated knowledge about the distribution of the two striped bass populations in Quebec as of 2018, leading to updates in recreational fishing areas. 

Monitoring of the abundance of adult striped bass is conducted by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Gulf Region, particularly in the Miramichi River. Additionally, the ministry has implemented a monitoring program in recent years to assess the presence and relative abundance of this population in Quebec. Other projects are also underway, including the annual monitoring of recreational fishing in Quebec through a survey of fishermen. 

These projects provide information on the distribution of striped bass in the Gaspé Peninsula as well as their frequentation of the territory. 

The ministry emphasizes its commitment to maintaining favourable conditions for the stock of striped bass that visit the Gaspé Peninsula, which supports the recreational fishery valued by fishermen in the region and elsewhere. 

On this subject, the annual fishing survey shows that about 80% of the recreational fishermen surveyed come from other sectors of Gaspésie, contributing significant economic spinoffs to the region, according to the ministry. 

Striped bass are not a threat, according to the Department of Wildlife Read More »

UNESCO renews accreditation for the Percé Geoparc 

Local Journalism Initiative / / / , , , , , ,

Nelson Sergerie, LJI Journalist

PERCÉ – The Percé Geoparc has succeeded in getting its UNESCO accreditation renewed. During the 9th Session of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Council, held on September 8 and 9 in Non Nuoc Cao Bang, Vietnam, it was recommended that the Percé Geoparc receive a green flag, a symbol of excellence in the sustainable management of its territory. 

In 2022, UNESCO granted a two year renewal extension to the Percé Geoparc following the discovery of several issues that have since been addressed. 

“We’ve worked tirelessly since December 2023 on this, up to the visit of the two evaluators from France and Ireland last July,” says Geoparc president Daniel Leboeuf. The recommendations will be submitted to the UNESCO Executive Board for final approval in March 2025. 

“We have passed the evaluation phase. Unless we have a fire or a drastic event, we can be confident of having this title for the next four years,” he emphasizes. 

In 2022, the Geoparks Council had issued a yellow rating for the Percé Geoparc. This yellow rating, which acts as a warning, indicated that improvements were necessary. 

Signage to guide people to the geoparc, signs at the entrances to Percé, a redesign of the geoparc’s map with trails and geosites needed clarification. A display to showcase Canadian and international geoparks was also needed. 

“We had to demonstrate that we have a very good collaboration with other stakeholders in the community: the national park, tourism providers, and Tourisme Gaspésie. We had them meet with many stakeholders between Barachois and Anse-à-Beaufils and they saw that the geoparc was a real cooperative. It’s a relief everyone’s efforts didn’t fall through,” says Mr. Leboeuf. 

The financial problems over the last few years represented an additional challenge, but 2024 numbers show that is now behind them. 

“The figures are available up until the end of August, and they show that we are on the right track. So far, it has been a very nice season with the sun. The recovery efforts started last year and this nice season will give us a good cushion,” he says. 

The next four years will allow for further refinement of the site. “So far in our immediate plans, we have to make improvements to our parking lots, develop a food service at the glass platform that visitors have asked us for and we have the permit from MAPAQ (Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food) to do so. We are exploring parts of the geoparc that are not yet exploited to open other geosites. If we can add one or two more before the four years is up, that would be much appreciated,” says the president. The zipline has been set aside due to its low profitability. 

UNESCO Global Geoparks are geographical areas where sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed according to a global concept of protection, education and sustainable development while involving communities. 

UNESCO renews accreditation for the Percé Geoparc  Read More »

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