Whales & Waves

Whales & Waves is a non-profit, volunteer led initiative run through support from the Canadian Wildlife Federation (CWF) as apart of their Canadian Conservation Corps program (CCC), and as a part of Ocean Wise’s Eco-Action Accelerator Program. This project aims to address a knowledge gap regarding marine mammal regulations and best practices in BC, starting with the regions around the Discovery Islands. Through signage implementation, advocacy, and community engagement, the project seeks to empower coastal citizens to become marine stewards; promoting healthy marine ecosystems and boater safety.

Working in collaboration with several marine research organizations, the project will install informative signage on local docks, highlighting regulations and guidelines, and emphasizing the need for responsible behavior. We will participate in advocacy events and utilize educational resources, workshops, dialogues and partnerships. These will promote knowledge enhancement around animal health, boater safety, and environmental initiatives, as well as encouraging marine stewardship. The project will also foster community ownership by offering opportunities to volunteer and actively contribute to marine initiatives. Efforts will be made to engage underrepresented groups and traditional land stewards, in order to promote inclusivity and ensure diverse perspectives.

The project serves the goal of protecting local marine species, which will promote healthy ecosystems and support tourism and commercial activities. We will also provide detailed educational resources and signage, enabling informed decision making connected to physical stressors on marine species, and boater safety. Other benefits to local organizations and contractors include: engagement for events and businesses, partnering with and promoting organizations, and opportunities for volunteers and paid contracts. The project is also important in that: maintaining healthy ecosystems can ensure the balance of the food chain, nutrient cycling, and other processes.

This project has been created in commemoration of the lives of all the victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302, including two Ocean Bridge ambassadors, Danielle Moore and Micah Messent. We aspire to carry on their legacy and commitment to making the world a better place by creating long-lasting impacts with a firm commitment to driving positive change for the environment and our ocean. We will never forget the light that Danielle and Micah brought to the world and will continue to keep them in our hearts. To learn more about these two amazing people, please visit: Honouring Danielle and Micah  – Ocean Wise. This work is partially funded by the Commemoration Fund for Victims of Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 Tragedy.