In 2019, the Grand Council of the Crees (Eeyou Istchee) / Cree Nation Government proposed a collaboration with Parks Canada on an Indigenous-led protected area project. This collaboration was formalized by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Parks Canada.

The MOU initiated a feasibility assessment to explore the establishment of a national marine conservation area, defining the terms and conditions under which it could be established. It also created a Steering Committee, comprising two representatives from the Cree Nation Government and two from Parks Canada, tasked with guiding the feasibility assessment process and with preparing a feasibility assessment report.

The Steering Committee compiled existing ecological and environmental data to highlight areas of rich biodiversity within the Study Area defined in the 2019 MOU. The Committee conducted engagement activities with the five coastal Cree First Nations (Waskaganish, Eastmain, Wemindji, Chisasibi, and Whapmagoostui) with Cree entities, and with stakeholders. Through these sessions, the Committee gathered insights on Cree interests, concerns, and ideas about potential opportunities associated with a National Marine Conservation Area.

For more information, please see the Feasibility Assessment for the Proposed Wiinipaakw Indigenous Protected Area and National Marine Conservation Area.