This ecological region is broad and crescent-shaped, extending from northern Saskatchewan
east to Newfoundland and south to Pennsylvania—lying to the north of the Eastern Temperate
Forests region. It is distinguished by extensive boreal forests and a high density of lakes situated
on the Canadian Shield. Despite having many urban areas, highways, railways, roads and
airports, much of this ecological region remains a relative wilderness. With a population of 4
million, this is a core area for forest and mining activities. Commercial fishing is extensive on
its east coast.