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Our Mission

We provide First Nations with the strategic advice needed to navigate marine conservation processes. By translating complex policies and facilitating meaningful dialogue with government bodies and interested groups, our mission is to ensure that the people who depend on the land and water have a strong, informed voice in shaping the future of Indigenous-led conservation.

About MPA Strategies Group

At MPA Strategies, we believe the future of Canada’s marine environments must be charted collaboratively. 

We are a specialized strategic advisory firm dedicated to bridging the gap between First Nations, commercial fishers, and government decision-makers in the development and management of Indigenous Protected and Conserved Areas (IPCAs) and Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).

Navigating complex policy landscapes requires a deep, practical understanding of how government frameworks and conservation mandates are structured and executed. We bring that essential, inside-out perspective to the table, empowering coastal communities to engage effectively and on equal footing.

Our goal is to ensure that Indigenous rights, traditional knowledge, and the economic realities of coastal communities are not just acknowledged, but fundamentally integrated into national conservation strategies.

By translating dense marine policies into actionable insights, MPA Strategies Group builds meaningful consensus. We exist to align the diverse interests of rightsholders and interested groups, fostering a balanced approach to stewardship where both our ocean ecosystems and the people who rely on them can thrive together.

Dan Leus

Founder & Sr. Consultant

Dan holds a marine biology degree and brings 20 years of experience in federal science and fisheries management. He has collaborated on various projects within the Canadian Federal Government, utilizing legislative tools such as the DFO Fisheries Act Marine Refuges, DFO Oceans Act Marine Protected Areas, Parks Canada National Marine Conservation Areas, and Environment and Climate Change Canada National Wildlife Areas.

Now, Dan is leveraging this extensive experience outside of the government to advocate for you and support your marine conservation goals.

Immediate Award

for leading on the creation of two new Marine Refuges in the Haida Gwaii.

Fisheries & Oceans Canada

Prix d'Excellence

for MPA development in the Northern Shelf Bioregion.

Deputy Minister Annette Gibbons
Fisheries & Oceans Canada

Premier's Award

for promoting Innovation and Excellence "Working Together: Protecting the Great Bear Sea".

BC Premier David Eby

Immediate Award

for leading on the creation of the first new Marine Refuge as part of the Northern Shelf Bioregion, in Knight Inlet.

Fisheries & Oceans Canada