Speaker Series: Barnacles, Ucluelet
2020-03-04 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Vancouver) | Ucluelet Community Centre, 500 Matterson Drive, Ucluelet, British Columbia, V0R 3A0, Canada
For Barnacles, Sex Is a Real Stretch

with Dr. Chris Neufeld, Associate Director, Education at Bamfield Marine Science Center

Wednesday, March 4th, 7:00 pm
George Fraser Room @ Ucluelet Community Center (500 Matterson Rd)
$5 at the door
For their size, barnacles possess the longest penis of any animal (up to eight times their body length). A necessity when you’re an animal stuck to a rock during your reproductive phase. Dr. Chris Neufeld will be speaking about the fascinating life history of barnacles. From a free-floating larvae to a very well-endowed adult, barnacles are more interesting than you would expect from something that kind of looks like a tiny bump on a rock.
Dr. Chris Neufeld is the Associate Director, Education at BMSC where he oversees BMSCs core educational mission: to inspire the next generation of citizens, to educate the next generation of scientists, and to facilitate real-world inquiry by fostering collaborations between citizens, students and scientists. Chris holds a Ph.D. in Ecology and Environmental Biology from the University of Alberta and held a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Washington’s Friday Harbor Laboratories.

This talk will also be held in Tofino:
Thursday, March 5th, 7:00 pm
Ecolodge Classroom @ Tofino Botanical Gardens (1084 Pacific Rim Hwy)
“CHARISMATIC MICROFAUNA”

Whether you are into bugs that break down decaying forest debris and turn over soil or sea butterflies that help us monitor ocean acidification, there is something to capture your heart in this year’s Raincoast Speaker Series. Join us for 5 different topics from January to March, each an in-depth examination of one special tiny yet fascinating creature. Expert speakers will share their tales of discovery, and the big roles these tiny animals play.
Raincoast Speaker Series punchcard – attend all five topics to be entered in a draw for an amazing prize!
This year’s topics are: Carpenter Ants, Pteropods, Krill, Barnacles, and Bees
New this year we will be offering the series in parallel in Ucluelet and Tofino. That means two opportunities to see each speaker.
Thank you to Pacific Sands Beach Resort for providing accommodation for our speakers again this year!

Speaker Series: Barnacles, Tofino
2020-03-05 19:00 - 21:00 | Ecolodge @ Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
For Barnacles, Sex Is a Real Stretch

with Dr. Chris Neufeld, Associate Director, Education at Bamfield Marine Science Center

Thursday, March 5th, 7:00 pm
Ecolodge Classroom @ Tofino Botanical Gardens (1084 Pacific Rim Hwy)
$5 at the door
For their size, barnacles possess the longest penis of any animal (up to eight times their body length). A necessity when you’re an animal stuck to a rock during your reproductive phase. Dr. Chris Neufeld will be speaking about the fascinating life history of barnacles. From a free-floating larvae to a very well-endowed adult, barnacles are more interesting than you would expect from something that kind of looks like a tiny bump on a rock.
Dr. Chris Neufeld is the Associate Director, Education at BMSC where he oversees BMSCs core educational mission: to inspire the next generation of citizens, to educate the next generation of scientists, and to facilitate real-world inquiry by fostering collaborations between citizens, students and scientists. Chris holds a Ph.D. in Ecology and Environmental Biology from the University of Alberta and held a postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Washington’s Friday Harbor Laboratories.

This talk will also be held in Ucluelet:
Wednesday, March 4th, 7:00 pm
George Fraser Room @ Ucluelet Community Center (500 Matterson Rd)
“CHARISMATIC MICROFAUNA”

Whether you are into bugs that break down decaying forest debris and turn over soil or sea butterflies that help us monitor ocean acidification, there is something to capture your heart in this year’s Raincoast Speaker Series. Join us for 5 different topics from January to March, each an in-depth examination of one special tiny yet fascinating creature. Expert speakers will share their tales of discovery, and the big roles these tiny animals play.
Raincoast Speaker Series punchcard – attend all five topics to be entered in a draw for an amazing prize!
This year’s topics are: Carpenter Ants, Pteropods, Krill, Barnacles, and Bees
New this year we will be offering the series in parallel in Ucluelet and Tofino. That means two opportunities to see each speaker.
Thank you to Pacific Sands Beach Resort for providing accommodation for our speakers again this year!

Discover and Dine: Seaweed
2020-03-14 10:00 - 20:00 | Long Beach Lodge Rainforest Room, 1441 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, Canada
In partnership with Long Beach Lodge Resort we are offering a collection of ‘Discover & Dine’ experiences that include a hands-on, coastline-focused workshop followed by a themed feast in honour of the daily lesson. This unique event series offers nourishment for the mind and belly!
Limited space available so be sure to reserve your spot today: events@longbeachlodgeresort.com

One day, three unique sessions:
Discover, 10 am- 12 pm
Meet in the Rainforest Room, lower level of Long Beach Lodge Resort, for an education session
The day will begin with a hands on lesson and field trip with Marine Biologist Educators from Raincoast Education Society. We will discuss the role seaweeds play in coastal ecology and examine the biodiversity of west coast seaweeds. Down at the beach, we will practice identifying common local species and talk about wild harvesting.

Discover more, 2 pm
Meet in the Rainforest Room, lower level of Long Beach Lodge Resort, for a culinary demonstration
Ever wondered how to prepare a seaweed feast? After a break for lunch we will reconvene at Long Beach Lodge Resort for a demonstration on seaweed preparation and cooking techniques. After the demonstration, take some time to relax in the Great Room while the kitchen prepares your feast!

Dine, 6 pm
Take a seat in the Great Room at Long Beach Lodge Resort, for a 3-course feast
To conclude the day we will enjoy a 3-course seaweed feast specifically designed by Executive Chef Shaun Snelling to highlight the delicious flavours of this unique category of edible food from the sea.

CANCELLED Speaker Series: Bees, Ucluelet
2020-03-18 19:00 - 21:00 | Ucluelet Community Centre, 500 Matterson Drive, Ucluelet, British Columbia, V0R 3A0, Canada
The Bees Needs: Why pollinators are in trouble and how you can support them with flowers

with Dr. Elizabeth Elle, Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at SFU

Wednesday, March 18, 7:00 pm
George Fraser Room @ Ucluelet Community Center (500 Matterson Rd)
$5 at the door
You’ve probably seen it in the news: the bees are in trouble. Much of the press is on the managed honey bee, an important component of agricultural systems. But many of the earth’s 20,000 other species of bee—and some of the 450 species we have here in BC—are experiencing population declines, and these insects provide essential pollination services not only to crops but also to wild plants. What can you do to help provide the bees needs, and reduce their risk of extinction? In this presentation, you’ll learn about the amazing diversity of wild pollinators, how critical they are for plant reproduction, and how gardens as well as natural areas can provide both food and nests to support them.
Elizabeth Elle is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at SFU. Formerly a high school teacher, she returned to university to foster a career that combined the pursuit of learning with her love of teaching. She has been a member of national (the Canadian Pollination Initiative) and international (the Integrated Crop Pollination Project) research collaborations aimed at protecting pollinators and enhancing pollination services to wildflowers and crops. She is also an award-winning teacher dedicated to both traditional university education and public engagement with the important conservation issues of our day. Elizabeth recently became the inaugural Vice Provost for Learning and Teaching at SFU, and although much of her time is now dedicated to her administrative role, she really just wants everyone to know that bees are awesome, and if you are worried about pollinator declines you should plant a garden.

This talk will also be held in Tofino:

Thursday, March 19, 7:00 pm
Ecolodge Classroom @ Tofino Botanical Gardens (1084 Pacific Rim Hwy)
“CHARISMATIC MICROFAUNA”
Whether you are into bugs that break down decaying forest debris and turn over soil or sea butterflies that help us monitor ocean acidification, there is something to capture your heart in this year’s Raincoast Speaker Series. Join us for 5 different topics from January to March, each an in-depth examination of one special tiny yet fascinating creature. Expert speakers will share their tales of discovery, and the big roles these tiny animals play.
Raincoast Speaker Series punchcard – attend all five topics to be entered in a draw for an amazing prize!
This year’s topics are: Carpenter Ants, Pteropods, Krill, Barnacles, and Bees
New this year we will be offering the series in parallel in Ucluelet and Tofino. That means two opportunities to see each speaker.
Thank you to Pacific Sands Beach Resort for providing accommodation for our speakers again this year!

CANCELLED Speaker Series: Bees, Tofino
2020-03-19 19:00 - 21:00 | Ecolodge @ Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
**This Event Has Been Cancelled**

The Bees Needs: Why pollinators are in trouble and how you can support them with flowers

with Dr. Elizabeth Elle, Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at SFU

Thursday, March 19, 7:00 pm
Ecolodge Classroom @ Tofino Botanical Gardens (1084 Pacific Rim Hwy)
$5 at the door
You’ve probably seen it in the news: the bees are in trouble. Much of the press is on the managed honey bee, an important component of agricultural systems. But many of the earth’s 20,000 other species of bee—and some of the 450 species we have here in BC—are experiencing population declines, and these insects provide essential pollination services not only to crops but also to wild plants. What can you do to help provide the bees needs, and reduce their risk of extinction? In this presentation, you’ll learn about the amazing diversity of wild pollinators, how critical they are for plant reproduction, and how gardens as well as natural areas can provide both food and nests to support them.
Elizabeth Elle is a Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at SFU. Formerly a high school teacher, she returned to university to foster a career that combined the pursuit of learning with her love of teaching. She has been a member of national (the Canadian Pollination Initiative) and international (the Integrated Crop Pollination Project) research collaborations aimed at protecting pollinators and enhancing pollination services to wildflowers and crops. She is also an award-winning teacher dedicated to both traditional university education and public engagement with the important conservation issues of our day. Elizabeth recently became the inaugural Vice Provost for Learning and Teaching at SFU, and although much of her time is now dedicated to her administrative role, she really just wants everyone to know that bees are awesome, and if you are worried about pollinator declines you should plant a garden.

This talk will also be held in Ucluelet:

Wednesday, March 18, 7:00 pm
George Fraser Room @ Ucluelet Community Center (500 Matterson Rd)
“CHARISMATIC MICROFAUNA”
Whether you are into bugs that break down decaying forest debris and turn over soil or sea butterflies that help us monitor ocean acidification, there is something to capture your heart in this year’s Raincoast Speaker Series. Join us for 5 different topics from January to March, each an in-depth examination of one special tiny yet fascinating creature. Expert speakers will share their tales of discovery, and the big roles these tiny animals play.
Raincoast Speaker Series punchcard – attend all five topics to be entered in a draw for an amazing prize!
This year’s topics are: Carpenter Ants, Pteropods, Krill, Barnacles, and Bees
New this year we will be offering the series in parallel in Ucluelet and Tofino. That means two opportunities to see each speaker.
Thank you to Pacific Sands Beach Resort for providing accommodation for our speakers again this year!

CANCELLED Beers and Biologists: Nature's Drive Thru
2020-03-23 18:00 - 20:00 | Ucluelet Brewing Co., 1601 Peninsula Road, Ucluelet, British Columbia, V0R3A0, Canada
**This event is cancelled**
Enjoy a beer and learn about wildlife.
Every spring Clayoquot and Barkley sounds turn the most beautiful shade of teal – green waters turned milky with herring eggs. That this phenomenon coincides with significant bird activity and a major whale migration is no accident. This hour-long talk will cover the ecological importance of the spring herring spawn to migrating birds and whales. Delivered by biologists Stefania Gorgopa, Shanti Davis and Mark Maftei of Raincoast Education Society.

This talk will be delivered twice during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.

March 23 at Beers and Biologists @ Ucluelet Brewing Co.

March 26 at Nature’s Drive Thru @ Ocean Outfitters (Tofino) *RSVP required

Gray Whale image credit: Ryan Harvey

For more information contact us.

CANCELLED Nature's Drive Thru @ Ocean Outfitters
2020-03-26 18:00 - 20:00 | Ocean Outfitters, 368 Main Street, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
**The educational presentation portion of this event is cancelled. Contact Ocean Outfitters for details on the boat tour portion**

Every spring Clayoquot and Barkley sounds turn the most beautiful shade of teal – green waters turned milky with herring eggs. That this phenomenon coincides with significant bird activity and a major whale migration is no accident. This hour-long talk will cover the ecological importance of the spring herring spawn to migrating birds and whales. Delivered by biologists Stefania Gorgopa, Shanti Davis and Mark Maftei of Raincoast Education Society.

Registration is required – 250.725.2866 or info@oceanoutfitters.bc.ca

This talk will be delivered twice during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.

March 23 at Beers and Biologists @ Ucluelet Brewing Co.

March 26 at Nature’s Drive Thru @ Ocean Outfitters (Tofino)

Gray Whale Photo: Ryan Harvey

Raincoast Field School @ home
2020-03-31 11:00 - 11:30 | Online, Canada
Our first Raincoast Field School @ home will be delivered through Facebook Live. On Tuesday March 31 at 11 am, go to the Raincoast Education Society Facebook page to view the live lesson.
The topic will be “Trees and Forests”, taught by Raincoast Field School instructor Taylor.⁠ This lesson will be suitable for families with children in grades K to 3.

Raincoast Field School @ home is an interactive online program delivered by Raincoast Field School instructors, educators and scientists. The program is being created to provide our local students (and beyond!) nature-based programming during COVID-19 related school closures.
Weekly ecology lessons are offered at 11 am PDT on Tuesday and Thursday, and can be joined from a computer, smartphone or tablet. Tuesday’s lesson will be best suited for families with children in Grades K-3 and Thursday’s for families with children in Grades 4-7. Links to supplementary materials and recorded videos will be posted on the @ home page after the lesson.

Registration is free. By providing your email address when you register we will be able to send you reminders, links and keep you up to date on future offerings. You can join the lesson from your home computer, smartphone or tablet.

Weekly themes:
March 31 and April 2 – Trees and Forests
April 7 and April 9 – Whale Migration

POSTPONED Raincoast Radio
2020-04-01 19:00 - 20:00 | Online, Canada

Raincoast Field School @ home
2020-04-02 11:00 - 11:30 | Online, Canada
Raincoast Field School @ home is an interactive online program delivered by Raincoast Field School instructors, educators and scientists. The program is being created to provide our local students (and beyond!) nature-based programming during COVID-19 related school closures.
Weekly ecology lessons are offered at 11 am PDT on Tuesday and Thursday, and can be joined from a computer, smartphone or tablet. Tuesday’s lesson will be best suited for families with children in Grades K-3 and Thursday’s for families with children in Grades 4-7. Links to supplementary materials and recorded videos will be posted on the @ home page after the lesson.

Our second Raincoast Field School @ home will be offered via Zoom Meetings. On Thursday April 2 at 11 am go to the zoom meeting, info below.

Topic: Raincoast Field School @ home (April 2)Time: Apr 2, 2020 11:00 AM Vancouver
Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us04web.zoom.us/j/965863152?pwd=[REDACTED]
Meeting ID: 965 863 152Password: [REDACTED]

Registration is free. By providing your email address when you register we will be able to send you reminders, links and keep you up to date on future offerings. You can join the lesson from your home computer, smartphone or tablet.

Weekly themes:
March 31 and April 2 – Trees and Forests
April 7 and April 9 – Whale Migration

Raincoast Field School @ home
2020-04-07 11:00 - 11:30 | Online, Canada
Raincoast Field School @ home is an interactive online program delivered by Raincoast Field School instructors, educators and scientists. The program is being created to provide our local students (and beyond!) nature-based programming during COVID-19 related school closures.
Weekly ecology lessons are offered at 11 am PDT on Tuesday and Thursday, and can be joined from a computer, smartphone or tablet. Lessons will be best suited for families with children in Grades K-7. Links to supplementary materials and recorded videos will be posted on the Raincoast Field School @ home page after the lesson.

Register for email updates and links to the live lessons.

Registration is free. By providing your email address when you register we will be able to send you reminders, links and keep you up to date on future offerings. You can join the lesson from your home computer, smartphone or tablet.

CANCELLED Tofino Shorebird Festival
2020-05-01 - 2020-05-03 | Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
The Tofino Shorebird Festival celebrates the spring migration of shorebirds with a series of educational birding activities throughout the region. We draw on local and visiting experts to participate in the festival, offering guest lectures, birding workshops, boat trips and much more! This is a great opportunity to experience the largest wildlife migration in the region, learn about these impressive birds, and understand why Tofino is one of the very best places in western Canada for bird watching.

With great reluctance we have decided to cancel this year’s festival.
The COVID 19 outbreak is leading to a huge amount of uncertainty and it is extremely difficult to confirm the participation of our special guest experts and volunteers who would need to travel to get here. Ultimately, health and safety concerns are at the top of our mind.

The birds will be migrating and there will be spectacular opportunities for birding in early May regardless of the cancellation. As the situation develops we will entertain the possibility of celebrating the shorebirds with small, informal, educational events. We are committed to creating as many opportunities for locals and visitors alike to learn while prioritizing health and safety. Updates will be available through our newsletter and social media channels.

Nuu-chah-nulth Lands & Waters – Ambassador Program Session
2020-05-05 17:00 - 20:00 | Online, Canada
This three-hour session is an introduction to Nuu-chah-nulth homelands, culture, and language. Learn about local history, cross cultural understanding, Nuu-chah-nulth language, and cultural world view. Explore the ancient and continued interconnections between the local landscape, the ocean and First Nations culture.
The sessions will alternate their regional focus between Ucluelet and Tofino on a weekly rotation (regional focus noted alongside dates listed below).
Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Dates: May 5 Tofino, May 12 Ucluelet, May 19 Tofino, May 26 Ucluelet, June 2 Tofino, June 9 Ucluelet, June 16 Tofino, June 23 Tofino

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.
Photo by Gisele Maria Martin.

Small Town, Big Picture: Tofino – Ambassador Program Session
2020-05-06 17:00 - 20:00 | Online, Canada
This three-hour orientation session delivers the “big picture” of living in Tofino. Learn about local history and basic ecology, cross-cultural understanding, businesses and activities, festivals, host etiquette, and important civic information. This is a great way to get up-to-date local’s information about living and working in Tofino.
This course is a suggested prerequisite for other courses.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Dates: May 6, May 13, May 20, May 27, June 3, June 10, June 17, June 24, July 1, July 8

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.

Photo by Shaun Stewart, Capturing the Coast submission.

Small Town, Big Picture: Ucluelet – Ambassador Program Session
2020-05-07 17:00 - 20:00 | Online, Canada
This three-hour orientation session delivers the “big picture” of living in Ucluelet. Learn about local history and basic ecology, cross-cultural understanding, businesses and activities, festivals, host etiquette, and important civic information. This is a great way to get up-to-date local’s information about living and working in Ucluelet.
This course is a suggested prerequisite for other courses.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Dates: May 7, May 14, May 21

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.

Photo: Capturing the Coast submission, 2018

Marine Ecology – Ambassador Program Session
2020-05-08 17:00 - 20:00 | Online, Canada
This three-hour session focuses on the rich marine environment that plays an integral role in life on this coast. This course will cover the intertidal and pelagic ecosystems of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds, including seaweeds, invertebrates, and marine mammals (and more!) as well as local oceanographic conditions. The sessions will alternate their regional focus between Ucluelet and Tofino on a weekly rotation (regional focus noted alongside dates listed below).
Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Dates: May 8 Tofino, May 15 Ucluelet, May 22 Tofino, May 29 Ucluelet, June 5 Tofino, June 12 Ucluelet

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.

Photo by Dane Stabel, Capturing the Coast submission.

Seaweeds of the West Coast 2020
2020-05-08 19:00 - 2020-05-10 13:00 | Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
In light of the Covid 19 recommendations for social distancing and staying home, the 2020 field course has been cancelled.

Please sign up here to be notified of future course offerings.
This weekend field course, based out of the Tofino Botanical Gardens, will introduce participants to the world of west coast seaweeds. Topics to be covered in this year’s course include an introduction to seaweeds (What are they? What is their role in coastal ecology?), biodiversity of west coast seaweeds, essentials of collecting and identifying seaweeds, seaweed foraging, the relationship between seaweeds and people, pressing and preserving seaweeds, and more!
We are excited to welcome back course instructors Dr. Bridgette Clarkston and Dr. Katy Hind who will come to Tofino to share their seaweed knowledge and expertise with us.

Course registration is $250 per person, and includes lunch on Saturday and Sunday.

Friday, May 8th (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm)

Presentation – overview of west coast seaweeds, different seaweed groups, role of seaweeds in coastal marine ecosystems.

Saturday, May 9th (8:00 am – 8:30 pm, with breaks) Low tide is at 9:03 am (0.3 feet / 0.1 m)

Field trip to explore seaweeds on Tofino’s rocky coast and practice naturalist skills, including fundamentals of seaweed identification.
Collection of seaweeds at field site.
Workshop to practice using dichotomous keys, field guides and online databases to identify unknown specimens
Create your own scientific and artistic seaweed presses.
Presentation – seaweeds and people: from traditional uses to modern foraging, and everything in between.

Sunday, May 10th (8:30 am – 12:00 pm) Low tide is at 9:50 am (0.7 feet / 0.2 m)

Putting it all together – field trip to identify seaweeds and their communities in nature, including opportunities to share what you’ve learned with the group.
Course wrap-up.

About the instructors:
Dr. Bridgette Clarkston is a seaweed enthusiast and co-author of the field guide, Pacific Seaweeds: A Guide to Common Seaweeds of the West Coast. She is a science educator and avid photographer with over 11 years of teaching and outreach experience. She has worked with initiatives such as the Beaty Biodiversity Museum, the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre and the Carl Wieman Science Education Initiative at the University of British Columbia. She specialized in seaweed taxonomy during her PhD at the University of New Brunswick where she discovered several new species of red seaweed, including one she named Euthora timburtonii. Currently, she is a faculty member in the Botany department at the University of British Columbia. Find out more about Bridgette here.

Dr. Katy Hind is a seaweed biologist and Hakai Scholar. She is currently working as the Senior Laboratory Coordinator at UVic. In her research, she has described new species of seaweed using an integrative approach that combines molecular techniques, historical DNA, morphology, biogeography, and ecology. To find out more about Katy’s research visit www.katyhind.com.

Check out photos of last year’s course below:

Terrestrial Ecology – Ambassador Program Session
2020-05-11 17:00 - 20:00 | Online, Canada
This three-hour session, taught by Barb Beasley, focuses on coastal terrestrial ecosystems. From the forest floor to the top of the canopy, this course will explore the interactions that occur in our local terrestrial ecosystems and the many species that inhabit them.
The sessions will alternate their regional focus between Ucluelet and Tofino on a weekly rotation (regional focus noted alongside dates listed below).
Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Dates: May 11 Ucluelet, May 18 Tofino, May 25 Ucluelet, June 1 Tofino, June 8 Ucluelet, June 15 Tofino

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.
Photo: Two Corvids, April Bencze, Capturing the Coast 2018

Marine Invertebrates of the West Coast
2020-06-05 19:00 - 2020-06-07 13:00 | Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
In light of the Covid 19 recommendations for social distancing and staying home, the 2020 field course has been cancelled.

Please sign up here to be notified of future course offerings.
This weekend field course will introduce participants to the diversity and ecology of Pacific Northwest invertebrates.
Topics to be covered in this year’s course include an introduction to invertebrates (What are they? What is their role in coastal ecology?), invertebrate biodiversity in the Pacific Northwest, morphology and adaptations of common phyla, scientific drawing, and more!

Course fee is $250, and includes lunch on Saturday and Sunday and admission to the Aquarium.

Friday, June 5th (7:00 – 8:30 pm)

Presentation – we will discuss what makes an invertebrate and how they differ from other groups of organisms. We will then go over the major groupings of invertebrates and delve into some of the most common ones we find on the west coast.

Saturday, June 6th (8:00 am – 8:30 pm, with breaks) Low tide is at 8:03 am (0 feet / 0.0 m!)

Field trip to explore the intertidal zone on Tofino’s rocky coast and practice naturalist skills, including fundamentals of invertebrate identification and characteristics of common phyla.
Work on observational drawings at field site.
Plankton collection and workshop at the Ucluelet Aquarium!
Presentation – explore the ecology of intertidal invertebrates discussing zonation and biological relationships as well as the morphological adaptations that help invertebrates survive in the intertidal zone.

Sunday, June 7th (8:00 am – 1:00 pm) Low tide is at 8:49 am (0.3 feet / 0.1 m)

Putting it all together – field trip to identify invertebrates and their communities in nature, including opportunities to share what you’ve learned with the group.

About the instructor:

Dr. Kylee Pawluk is a marine ecologist and invertebrate lover. Kylee’s research has focused on understanding how environmental and biological factors influence marine invertebrates and seaweeds. She has been an instructor at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre and the University of Victoria teaching various courses such as marine invertebrate zoology and coastal conservation. She is currently the Regional Projects Coordinator for the Marine Plan Partnership for the North Pacific Coast (MaPP) working on marine spatial planning. To find out more about Kylee visit http://kpawluk.com/

Check out photos of last year’s course below:

Terrestrial Ecology – Ambassador Program Session
2020-06-15 09:30 - 12:30 | Online, Canada
This three-hour session, taught by Barb Beasley, focuses on coastal terrestrial ecosystems. From the forest floor to the top of the canopy, this course will explore the interactions that occur in our local terrestrial ecosystems and the many species that inhabit them.
The sessions will alternate their regional focus between Ucluelet and Tofino on a weekly rotation (regional focus noted alongside dates listed below).
Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 9:30 AM – 12:30 pm
Dates: June 15 Tofino

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.
Photo: Two Corvids, April Bencze, Capturing the Coast 2018

Nuu-chah-nulth Lands & Waters – Ambassador Program Session
2020-06-16 10:00 - 13:00 | Online, Canada
This three-hour session is an introduction to Nuu-chah-nulth homelands, culture, and language. Learn about local history, cross cultural understanding, Nuu-chah-nulth language, and cultural world view. Explore the ancient and continued interconnections between the local landscape, the ocean and First Nations culture.
The sessions will alternate their regional focus between Ucluelet and Tofino on a weekly rotation (regional focus noted alongside dates listed below).
Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 10AM – 1PM
Dates: June 16 Tofino, June 23 Tofino

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.
Photo by Gisele Maria Martin.

Nuu-chah-nulth Lands & Waters – Ambassador Program Session
2020-06-23 10:00 - 13:00 | Online, Canada
This three-hour session is an introduction to Nuu-chah-nulth homelands, culture, and language. Learn about local history, cross cultural understanding, Nuu-chah-nulth language, and cultural world view. Explore the ancient and continued interconnections between the local landscape, the ocean and First Nations culture.
The sessions will alternate their regional focus between Ucluelet and Tofino on a weekly rotation (regional focus noted alongside dates listed below).
Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.
Location: Zoom Meeting (Register to receive the meeting link, allow a few minutes for the link to arrive in your inbox).
Time: 10 AM – 1 PM
Dates: June 16 Tofino, June 23 Tofino

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce, Tourism Ucluelet and Tourism Tofino. The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.
Photo by Gisele Maria Martin.

Forest Camp | Tofino
2020-07-13 09:00 - 2020-07-17 15:30 | Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
Forest Camp (Tofino)
Dates: July 13- 17

Time: 9:00-15:30
Location: Tofino Botanical Gardens
Cost: $225
Discover the wonders of the forest and stream ecosystems! Camp days include exciting survival games, tricks to stay safe in the woods, ecology of local rainforest flora and fauna, roasting treats over a beach campfire, and a competition to build the best outdoor shelter possible.
Ages: 7 – 10
Register through Tofino Recreation Guide
http://www.tofino.ca/recreation

Plankton Tuesday!
2020-07-14 13:00 - 15:30 | Ocean Outfitters, 368 Main Street, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
Plankton Tuesday!
Though you may not always see them – plankton are out there, and some will become a feast for tiny fish or giant whales. Come observe plankton from up close and learn more! Stop by the breezeway next to Ocean Outfitters – plankton samples will be ready for microscope observation of these fascinating creatures.
Date: Every Tuesday in July and August, and Sept 1st
Time: 1:00-3:30pm
Location: Meet outside Ocean Outfitters (368 Main St.)
Cost: Free

Junior Naturalist's Club
2020-07-15 13:00 - 14:00 | Darwin’s Cafe @ Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
Junior Naturalist’s Club
Our guided rainforest walks will offer youth a unique understanding of this globally significant ecosystem, from the impressive diversity of flora and fauna to the interconnections with the marine environment. Children 5 & up. Drop off and Pick up next to Darwin’s Café.
Date: Wednesdays in July and August, and Sept 2nd
Time: 1:00-2:00pm
Location: Drop off next to Darwin’s Café, Tofino Botanical Gardens (1084 Pacific Rim Hwy)
Cost: Free

Ocean Camp | Ucluelet
2020-07-20 09:00 - 2020-07-24 15:30 | Ucluelet Community Centre, 500 Matterson Drive, Ucluelet, British Columbia, V0R 3A0, Canada
Ocean Camp (Ucluelet)
Dates: July 20 -24

Time: 9:00-15:30
Location: Ucluelet Community Centre (location may change)
Cost: $250

This camp is all about salt water and anything that lives in it! Explore coastal nooks and crannies, investigate tides and marine critters, play games with your friends, and roast treats over a beach campfire – these are just a few of the activities that will take place during Ocean Camp.
Ages: 7 – 10
Register through Ucluelet Parks & Recreation
https://ucluelet.ca/community/parks-recreation

Beach Seine
2020-07-26 13:00 - 14:00 | Tofino Sea Kayaking, 320 Main Street, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
Explore intertidal eelgrass meadows and learn about the animals that live in this important habitat at a beach seine this summer!
Most of us have probably encountered eelgrass – from spending hours in the ocean alongside these green ribbons, or exploring eelgrass-filled mudflats. Eelgrass meadows create habitat for a myriad of coastal species and act as a highly productive ecosystem. And it’s thanks to eelgrass that today’s halibut fish fry or tonight’s salmon dinner is possible. The meadows form a buffer in the water that softens the impact of waves and currents, reducing coastal erosion and creating a calm habitat. This provides a nursery for many juvenile fish, including rockfish, salmon and halibut, and also provides an ideal habitat for herring to spawn. These fish are preyed upon by waterfowl such as: Great Blue Heron, migrating shorebirds and ducks. In addition, eelgrass blades act as a substrate for diatoms and other algae, which get grazed upon by many eelgrass-dwelling invertebrates such as nudibranchs, crabs and shrimp.
We will work together to pull the seine net up on to the beach, and learn how to handle the animals we catch with care. All animals collected will be gently returned to the ocean.
Gumboots recommended – this program will run rain or shine!

Forest Camp | Ucluelet
2020-08-10 09:00 - 2020-08-14 15:30 | Ucluelet Community Centre, 500 Matterson Drive, Ucluelet, British Columbia, V0R 3A0, Canada
Forest Camp (Ucluelet)

Dates: August 10-14
Time: 9:00-15:30
Location: Ucluelet Community Centre
Cost: $250

Description:
Discover the wonders of the forest and stream ecosystems! Camp days include exciting survival games, tricks to stay safe in the woods, ecology of local rainforest flora and fauna, roasting treats over a beach campfire, and a competition to build the best outdoor shelter possible.
Ages: 7 – 10

Register through Ucluelet Parks & Recreation
https://ucluelet.ca/community/parks-recreation

Ocean Camp | Tofino
2020-08-17 09:00 - 2020-08-21 15:30 | Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
Ocean Camp (Tofino)
Dates: August 17- 21

Time: 9:00-15:30
Location: Tofino Botanical Gardens (location may change)
Cost: $250

This camp is all about salt water and anything that lives in it! Explore coastal nooks and crannies, investigate tides and marine critters, play games with your friends, and roast treats over a beach campfire – these are just a few of the activities that will take place during Ocean Camp.
Ages: 7 – 10
Register through Tofino Recreation Guide
http://www.tofino.ca/recreation

CANCELLED 20th Annual Tofino Lantern Festival
2020-08-23 19:30 - 22:30 | Tofino Botanical Gardens, 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino, BC, V0R 2Z0, Canada
CANCELLED
The Tofino Lantern Festival is the Raincoast Education Society’s signature community event and fundraiser, drawing the young and old with an unbelievable variety of handmade lanterns, live music, dance performance, food vendors, and other entertainment.
We have cancelled the Festival due to the ongoing global pandemic. Please consider donating your admission fee instead to support our free educational programs!

Don’t miss out on one of Tofino’s most beloved and magical festivals, rain or shine! We hope to bring the festival back in 2021!
Festival details are provided below for your interest – the festival is cancelled for 2020.
Festival opens at 7:30 pm, trails open at 8:30 pm
Adults: $15 (cash only) / Kids under 12: FREE
This is a car free event! Please make use of the free shuttle from the village green to Tofino Botanical Gardens starting at 7 pm. The last shuttle will leave the gardens at 11 pm.
Please, no dogs at the Tofino Lantern Festival.
This is a drug & alcohol free event.
