Wabanaki Forest

From the Bay of Fundy to the forests of Maine, one of the most diverse forest ecosystems in North America stretches across our landscape. Known as the Wabanaki Forest, this rich mix of hardwood and softwood species has shaped the ecology, culture, and communities of Atlantic Canada for thousands of years.

You may also hear it referred to as the Wabanaki-Acadian Forest. The name “Wabanaki” comes from the Mi’kmaw word Wabanakiki, meaning “the Dawnland,” the traditional homeland of the Wabanaki Confederacy, which includes the Mi’kmaq, Wolastoqey, Passamaquoddy, Penobscot, and Abenaki Peoples. Today, many organizations use the name Wabanaki to recognize the long history of Indigenous stewardship and the knowledge that has shaped our understanding of these forests.

Explore our interactive StoryMap to learn more about the region, its unique forest ecosystems, and the importance of protecting this natural and cultural heritage. Scroll down to move through the story, explore interactive maps, and discover more about the forests that shape our region.