An Ecomuseum is based on the idea of experiencing nature, culture and history at the
place where key events occur or occurred in a way that minimizes “bricks and mortar” infrastructure, thus the
description of an ecomuseum as a "museum without walls." The ecomuseum concept emphasizes interaction between
nature and people.
Another
way of describing an ecomuseum can be defined as “a cultural/heritage themepark spread over a wide geographic
area”. Eleven inaugural sites are planned for the Miramichi Open River ecomuseum as summarized below.
1.
French Fort Cove: Expansion of outdoor nature and interpretive offerings.
2.
Ritchie Wharf: Expansion of interpretive offerings including a shipbuilding theatre.
3.
Middle Island: Infrastructure upgrades and expansion of interpretive offerings.
4.
Waterford Green: Expansion of this small riverfront park as a downtown gathering focal point.
5.
Historic Water Street: Establishing pedestrian links to Waterford Green and refurbishing the Old Post Office to include a visitor information centre
and genealogy research centre.
6.
St. Andrews' Point (Coming 2012): Construction of a public park at the wharf in Loggieville, including an
interpretive kiosk and panels depicting the history of the fishery.
7.
Beaubears Island: Expansion of interpretive offerings.
8.
Strawberry Marsh: Expansion of walking/hiking trails through this natural area.
9.
Morrison Cove (Coming 2012): Restoration as a nature park.
10.
Canadian Point (Coming 2012): Conversion to a nature park.
11.
Vye’s Beach: Enhancement as a walking and viewing area.
