Spring 2019

March 16, 2019

Hooray, spring is on it's way! Herring have begun to spawn, whales are arriving, and many species of shorebirds will soon arrive to feast on our shores, before they carry on their annual migration. In this issue we explore some of the many events, courses, and festivals happening this spring, and share our job posting for a summer Communications Assistant.

Tofino Shorebird Festival
Come and see for yourself the impressive annual migration of over 40 species of shorebirds to the area! The Tofino Shorebird Festival brings together residents and visitors to celebrate with a series of educational birding activities throughout the region. Don't miss out - book your trip to the West Coast today!
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History of Vargas Island Ranchers
Be sure to stop by the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum this spring and check out their exhibit about the Vargas Island Ranchers at Home and at War. Curated by Stephanie Ann Warner - granddaughter of Harold Monks Sr. - a Vargas Island rancher, cannery fisherman, wartime signaller, lifeboat crew member, and active Legion comrade - the exhibit will bring to life the experiences of Tofino and Vargas Island residents in the face of the First World War. The exhibit is on now until May 15th, Thursday - Sunday 12:30 - 4:30 pm. Photo: Vargas Island Ranchers Go To War, courtesy of Harold Monks Collection.
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Summer Communications Assistant
Applications are being accepted for a Communications Assistant to support the growth of education tourism throughout the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region this summer.
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Spring Break Activities
From whale spotting, scavenger-hunts, beach seines, dock-side explorations and a bioblitz, to learning to make your own household cleaners, don't miss out on all of the exciting activities happening this Spring Break!
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Get involved - become a Citizen Scientist today!
Microplastics - fragments, nurdles, and filaments smaller than 5mm - are ingested by over 180 species, indirectly impacting human health through the food chain. The Ucluelet Aquarium - with the help of citizen scientists like you - is scientifically monitoring the microplastic pollution in beach sediment in order to 1) collect data to understand the type, distribution, and frequency of plastics, 2) share the results with leaders and politicians, and 3) engage and inform public to use plastic alternatives. Visit our Event listings to find out when the next survey is so you can be involved!
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Local capacity building
In early February, we hosted grant writing workshops in Ucluelet and Tofino, delivered by Scott Graham of the Social Planning and Research Council of BC. Attended by over 50 West Coast residents, the workshops not only provided useful tools and resources for grant applications, but were an inspiring opportunity for community members to get together and discuss their organizations, goals, and projects with each other.
Join us in Tofino for a new food-themed experience that pairs immersive learning and quality dining! The day will include an expert-guided beach walk to learn about and taste seaweeds, a seaweed pickling workshop, and 2 seaweed-themed meals. Registrants save 15% on accommodation at Tofino Resort + Marina. Don't miss out, tickets are on sale until April 5th! Photo: Bridgette Clarkston