The Shediac Valley Area of Interest (AOI) is an area rich in biodiversity in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence.  It is located east of New Brunswick and north-west of Prince Edward Island and covers an area of 1530 km². The area plays an important role in various biological functions (feeding, refuge, nursery and spawning) for a variety of fish species including many commercial species. In particular, it is used by Atlantic Cod particularly for summer feeding and as a nursery ground. Other species of conservation interest are also in the area, such as American Plaice and Winter Skate.

The Shediac Valley Area of Interest (AOI) is recognized as having high productivity with circular currents (gyres) located near the north and south borders.  Water depths in the Area of Interest range from 24 to 51 metres.

A portion of the Shediac Valley is closed to groundfish fisheries, the closure is renewed on a yearly basis by the Department.  The Shediac Valley Area is a candidate Marine Protected Area (MPA), which would provide comprehensive and long-term management and protection for this area rich in biodiversity.

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