PART 1: Saturday March 26, @5:30PM - 8:30PM
Getting to Know the Locals
Get to know the legendary locals who frequent our waterways! Learn about which marine mammals call Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds their home and get the insider scoop on the fascinating lives of some of the frequent visitors who share their summers here.
Presenters & guest speaker:
Karyssa Arnett & Sydney Dixon, SIMRS
Dr. Rianna Burnham, Research Scientist with DFO & Adjunct Assistant Professor with UVic Whale Lab
Research & Citizen Science
Discover what research and monitoring efforts are being done to protect these species, and how you can contribute to citizen-science to help inform scientists and policymakers.
Guest speakers:
Jennifer Yakimishyn, Marine Ecologist with Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Aaron Purdy, Outreach & Education Lead with Southern Vancouver Island Cetacean Research Initiative (Ocean Wise)
PART 2: Sunday March 27, @5:30PM - 8:30PM
Marine Mammal Rescue & Response
Dive into some of the key threats facing marine mammals today and what can be done to mitigate human impacts in marine ecosystems. Learn from expert rescuers about marine mammal emergency scenarios and response efforts happening right off our coast. Understand your role in responding to marine mammal emergencies in the region.
Guest speakers:
Wendy Szaniszlo, Entanglement Mitigation Specialist with Canadian Wildlife Federation
Paul Cottrell, Pacific Marine Mammal Coordinator with Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Dr. Stephen Raverty, veterinary pathologist with the Ministry of Agriculture and Lands
Various speakers, Marine Mammal Rescue Centre (Vancouver Aquarium)
Responsible Boating Practices
Learn how to responsibly share the ocean with our marine mammal neighbours. Test your knowledge on the BC marine mammal laws, regulations and best practices. Discover how you can take extra steps to ensure your safety and the safety of marine wildlife while boating.
Presenters: Karyssa Arnett & Sydney Dixon, SIMRS
We hope participants will leave the workshop with a better understanding of our local marine wildlife and gain the tools and knowledge to take action towards their protection and conservation. The workshop will include a resource package specific to the marine life of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds for each participant. Any questions? Email us at info@simrstofino.org.
COVID Policy: This event is held indoors and the current PHO requires that all participants present proof of vaccination (with valid government issued ID) to enter. Masks will be required to be worn by participants at all times while seated indoors.
Limited spaces available. Click the link below to secure your spot in the workshop: