Winter 2018-2019

January 15, 2019

Happy New Year from all of us at West Coast NEST!

At West Coast NEST, one of our key activities is spreading the word about upcoming education programs offered to both visiting and local learners in our region. By way of website listings, social media platforms (@westcoastnest), and other online and direct marketing efforts we promote informative talks, guided tours, and hands-on workshops led by local individuals, organizations, and businesses. Looking back over the year, in 2018 we listed over 650 courses and events on the NEST – what an amazing amount of learning opportunities! Don’t miss out – be sure to come and learn with us on the West Coast in 2019!

Be CoastSmart! Know before you go near the water.

Storm season is here - large amounts of rain, strong winds, high tides and big swells are producing amazing ocean views for storm watching. It is very important to enjoy the views from a safe place – two recommendations are the Kwisitis Visitor Centre’s Observation Deck at Wickaninnish Beach and the Lookout at Florencia Bay. Be sure to visit CoastSmart.ca and learn how to be safe before you go near the water.

Raincoast Education Society Speaker Series

Join Raincoast Education Society this winter for a "Predator and Prey" themed Speaker Series. From copepods to killer whales and everything in between, come out and join some of BC’s leading scientists to learn more about the key players in the marine food web, how they interact amongst each other, and what it all means for us.

Opening Day at the Ucluelet Aquarium

March 1st is opening day at the Ucluelet Aquarium for the 2019 season and admission is free! Come and say hello to Aquarium staff and meet a fascinating array of fish and invertebrates from the waters of Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds.

Tofino Shorebird Festival

Experience the largest wildlife migration in the region, learn about these impressive birds, and understand why this is one of the very best places in western Canada for bird watching!

Out and About

West Coast NEST (Nature. Education. Sustainability. Transformation.) hoodies arrived for the winter season! We are often out and about on the West Coast whether it be connecting visiting groups with local educators, participating in or photographing a unique learning opportunity, or putting up event posters around the region. Just look for our bright blue NEST hoodies and come say hello!

Coast Guard Ship Tours and Ocean Fair

West Coast residents and visitors learned about research being conducted in our local waters through guided tours of the Canadian Coast Guard research vessel Vector, a dock-side Ocean Fair, and a visit to the Ucluelet Aquarium.

West Coast Knitting and Weaving Retreat

Read about this unique learning experience for knitters - a balance of art, craft, culture, nature and exercise!