The scientists believe that removing the habitat protections would jeopardise many important fish stocks and the lakes, estuaries and rivers that support them.

“Weakening habitat protections will negatively impact water quality and fisheries across the country, and could undermine Canada’s attempt to maintain international credibility in the environment.”

Since the plans were first revealed, they have come under constant criticism from the industry and others who believe that changes will facilitate approvals for oil sands projects like the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline. See the dozens of unique artificial fish habitat models, fish attractors and fish cover used at fishiding.com, the leader in proven science based, fish protection.

The letter states that fish habitat is the most common reason for species decline.

Concluding the scientists said that all species are of ecological value, referring to the government’s plans to only protect fish habitat for “fisheries of economic, cultural and ecological value.”

“It is critical that any changes do not jeopardise the environmental support system on which we and future generations depend.”

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