Ocean Bridge Comes Full Circle

The 10-day immersive Atlantic Learning Journeys wrapped up in late September, filled with hands-on service projects, adventure programming, community building, and local education from community members and traditional knowledge holders.  

The group of 2021 ambassadors left with abundant knowledge and a thirst for action, but the Learning Journeys couldn’t have been more fulfilling for Lachlan Riehl and Hil Hamilton, two Ocean Bridge Alum who were invited to lead workshops for the new group of ambassadors. This full circle moment let the alumni showcase the incredible work they’re doing post-Ocean Bridge.  

Lachlan facilitated a session showcasing the work Mi’kmaw Conservation Group is doing on the Halfway River. This included doing Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tagging on American eel and tomcod and collecting data on species catch. By collaborating with a local wetland management organization (CBWES), Lachlan facilitated a well-rounded field day exploring a dynamic river ecosystem and showcasing the complex management and decision making involved in his work. The group of ambassadors gained first–hand experience using PIT tags, which are small radio transponder that contains specific identification code, and they learned about government, NGO, and community management interfaces. 

Hil led a session exploring 3 different underwater ecosystems using a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV). Each ambassador drove the ROV and explored the view with a virtual reality headset. While exploring underwater, Hil encouraged the youth to explore their species identification skills by referencing an ID guide.  

The Learning Journeys may have wrapped up, but the ambassadors will take their experiences and continue to be inspired to help their communities even after they graduate from Ocean Bridge. 

Photo Credit: Kaitlyn Harris

What is Ocean Bridge?
Ocean Bridge brings together young Canadians with a wide range of backgrounds and experiences who are passionate about making a difference in their communities through the lens of oceans and waterway conservation. These Ocean Bridge Ambassadors from all across Canada work together, receive funding and learn from experts in marine conservation and education through an online platform and in-person learning journeys to develop service projects related to ocean health and ocean literacy in communities across the country. Ocean Bridge is an Ocean Wise initiative funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada Service Corps.

Canada Service Corps
Canada Service Corps is designed to generate a culture of service among young Canadians; concrete results for communities; personal growth through participation in a diverse team of peers; and lasting impacts on participants. Visit www.canada.ca/CanadaServiceCorps to learn more and how to get involved in the way that works best for you.