This centre was developed to preserve and restore one of the few remaining great sand dunes on the northeastern coastline of North America. At the same time, the centre provides opportunities to learn more about the dune and its ecology. This environmentally significant area is the habitat for a rich variety of marine and aquatic plants and animals, shorebirds and migratory birds. An excellent experience for students!
The sand dune stretches 12 km (7.5 mi.) across Bouctouche Bay as a result of the constant action of wind, tides and sea currents since the last ice age. After every major storm its shape changes. The centre features a 2-km (1-mi.) boardwalk with ramps and stairs to the beach, however as a result of severe storms in 2010 only the first 800 metres (.5 mi.) of the boardwalk are currently open to visitors, who are welcome to access it for a long walk.