Raincoast Institute Courses
“Offer high-quality continuing education courses that inspire adults and young adults to connect with natural ecosystems.”
Birds of the West Coast
April 24 – 26
In this weekend field course, you will be introduced to the general ecology and biology of birds with an emphasis on commonly encountered species. This course is specifically scheduled to overlap with the peak shorebird migration as well as the presence of large numbers of other migrating species.
The west coast of Vancouver Island features some of the best birding opportunities in North America. Lying directly along the Pacific Flyway, this region hosts huge numbers of migrating birds of all kinds each spring and fall. In the winter, the diversity and abundance of non-breeding birds remains high thanks to wide range of habitats and a mild climate.
Seaweeds of the West Coast
May 15 – 17
In this weekend field course, we will introduce participants to the world of west coast seaweeds. Topics will include an introduction to seaweeds, the biodiversity of west coast seaweeds, essentials of collecting and identifying seaweeds, seaweed foraging, the relationship between seaweeds and people, pressing and preserving seaweeds, cyanotype and more!
At a very low tide along the Pacific Coast of Canada, the shoreline transforms into a living mosaic of seaweeds — from bright green sea lettuce high on the rocks to intricate red algae and sweeping brown kelps below. The coast of British Columbia supports one of the richest temperate seaweed floras in the world, and low tide briefly reveals this hidden underwater forest in remarkable detail.
Photo Galleries
Check out some photos taken during our past Raincoast Institute courses:
2026 Course Options
Dates TBA
Need help?
If you have any questions about our courses, our events, or just us in general – we’re here to help!
