By Ruth Simons

On December 6th, 2019 we hosted the gathering of Howe Sound Conservation groups at New Brighton Community Centre. Organized by the Howe Sound Biosphere Region Initiative Society, representatives from the many conservation organizations focused in the region for the second Conservationists Network meeting to learn about each other’s projects and build support.

Projects include data gathering in the marine environment for the Atl’ka7tsem Howe Sound Marine Conservation Assessment Map and the Marine Reference Guide. Documenting biodiversity in the region with the iNaturalist app. Creation of storytelling books the Bowen Marine Atlas. Local Government planning through the lens of changing climate and reconciliation and opportunities for further land conservation. We heard about the outdoor education programs for over 600 children and grant money being awarded for removing barriers to fish access. Research, mapping, and monitoring of eelgrass, forage fish, plankton, glass sponge reefs, and potential new Rockfish Conservation Areas. We learned how more volunteers are needed to help with these education programs, documentation, reporting, weed pulling, and tree planting. Together we also identified areas for further research and monitoring.

To learn more, see our listing of Partners at Work in the region.