The MPA was established with the goal of protecting Beluga whales and the biodiversity of other bird and fish species and their habitats.

[1] Tarium Niryutait is divided into three sections adjacent to the Mackenzie Delta that together cover an area of 1,750 square kilometres (680 sq mi):[1][2] These areas are very shallow and heavily influenced by the Mackenzie River during summer, and seasonal land-fast sea ice.

The regions lie adjacent to seasonal stamukhi zone which impounds the Mackenzie River during the winter and spring.

[2] Other mammals observed in the area include bowhead whales, polar bears and ringed seals.

[1] Notable fish species that occur in the region include Pacific herring, Dolly Varden, broad whitefish, and Arctic cisco, among others.