Raincoast Institute Courses
“Offer high-quality continuing education courses that inspire adults and young adults to connect with natural ecosystems.”
We partner with local and visiting educators and researchers to offer in depth weekend field courses for adults covering a range of topics specific to the ecology of the region. Rooted in the Nuu-chah-nulth philosophy of Hishuk-ish-tsawalk (everything is connected/everything is one), our courses provide opportunities to study natural ecosystems from a holistic perspective, and to engage with specific ecological components through hands-on, outdoor-based learning.
Designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Clayoquot Sound provides a unique opportunity to experience the interconnections between human communities, the rich marine ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean, and some of the largest tracts of old-growth coastal temperate rainforest in the world.
2022 Course Listings
Seaweeds of the West Coast
Next Course TBA
This weekend field course will introduce participants to the world of west coast seaweeds. Topics to be covered 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!
Mushrooms of the West Coast
Stand by for 2022 date confirmation!
In this weekend field course, participants will learn about the wonderful world of West Coast Mushrooms. Topics to be covered include an introduction to fungi (what are they, and what is their role in our forests?), essentials of collecting and identifying fungi in the field, edible, medicinal and poisonous fungi, cooking with wild mushrooms, and more!
Raincoast Institute Photo Gallery
Check out some photos taken during our past Raincoast Institute courses:
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If you have any questions about our courses, our events, or just us in general – we’re here to help!