Arpin Canoe Restigouche - Passionate Wild River Advocates

If you've ever been canoeing on the Restigouche River, you may already know André Arpin - one of the best tourism operators in our province. I first met André about 13 years ago at a community meeting. Since then, I've been so impressed with his passion for the river, and the enjoyment he gets from sharing his love for and lifelong knowledge of the Restigouche.

André runs his business right next to his picturesque log home along the storied Restigouche River. Whenever we start down the steep hill that leads to his place, and ultimately the river, I feel a mixture of anticipation and relaxation all at once. André is so welcoming and generous with his time. Make no mistake, he is also running a going concern of a canoeing and ecotourism business. He and his team are excellent guides and outfitters, providing superior service to many hundreds of new and returning customers from around the world.

Over the years, Arpin Canoe Restigouche and CPAWS New Brunswick (the organization for which I work) developed the Friends of Restigouche, a partnership and network to encourage increased conservation of Restigouche rivers and wilderness areas. Other community groups and individuals have joined in along the way. André's determination to protect the natural environment on and around the Restigouche and its tributaries is infectious and inspiring.

I highly recommend taking a trip down the Restigouche with André - you'll be rewarded with a spectacular adventure.

Our newest campaign together is called "Keep the Restigouche Wild". We're trying to get at least 3000 signatures in support of protecting the wildest parts of Restigouche forever, and we've already received over 2500 signatures! To add your voice: http://www.wildrestigouche.ca/ .

For more on Arpin Canoe Restigouche: http://www.canoerestigouche.ca/.