About

1992 – The Wolastoq/St. John River Society was founded by David Folster and others as a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting appreciation and stewardship of the Wolastoq/St. John River. The Society focuses on preserving the river’s natural and cultural heritage and resources.

1998 – In response to the Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ wharf divestiture program, the Society took over the maintenance of 13 heritage steamboat wharfs. This action aimed to protect an important part of the river’s heritage and ensure continued public access to the river.

1999 – Leone Pippard prepared a comprehensive Wharf Transfer Report and Proposal, outlining a plan for the future of the wharfs and the development of a River Trail Network along the lower portion of the river.

2001 – The Society received Federal and Provincial funding for planning and developing the River Trail Network. That same year, the Society hosted the International River Heritage Conference in Fredericton, marking the first time the event was held in Atlantic Canada. During the conference, the Society announced its intention to pursue the designation of the Wolastoq/St. John River as a Canadian Heritage River.

2004 – The Society hired its first full-time Executive Director to lead its growing activities.

2005-2008 – To further the development of the River Trail Network, the Society formed partnerships and secured funding for planning and constructing River Centre facilities in Hampton, Oromocto, and Grand Bay-Westfield, as well as a River Park in Gagetown. Themed driving tours and brochures were also created, and the concept of the Lower River Passage was developed. The Lower River Passage project received the Tourism Association of New Brunswick Partnership Award.

2009 – Following extensive consultation and planning, the Society transitioned from its role as Managing Partner of the Lower River Passage and began focusing on the St. John River Corridor project, recognizing its commitment to the entire length of the river in the province. Work on the River Corridor project concluded after two years of planning.

2011 – In partnership with military historians from UNB and other community members, the Society began planning the War of 1812 commemoration, with associated events taking place throughout 2012 and 2013.

2012 – The Wolastoq/St. John River received final designation as the 38th Canadian Heritage River, marking a significant achievement in the Society’s efforts to protect and celebrate the river’s heritage.

2019 – The Society began work on the Ecological Limits of Hydrologic Alteration (ELOHA) project in collaboration with UNB researchers. This ongoing work focuses on sustainable watershed management, involving extensive consultations, research, and scientific study.

2024 – The Society launched the “Be Wake Aware” campaign to educate boaters on the potential impact of their wake on the river and its shorelines. Additionally, the Society continues to manage and maintain the heritage wharfs, securing funding for ongoing repairs and signage updates. The Society also provides education on topics such as cyanobacteria, flooding, and the natural and cultural history of the river.