How to be a Citizen Sciencist in Tofino this Summer
Walk some trails, paddle a kayak, eat some delicious food - and join the wave of citizen science. This summer, seize the opportunities to contribute meaningfully to the natural abundance of this region.
The best part of doing this? Taking part in research, monitoring, or a beach clean (no experience necessary!) fulfills the Łaayaksiinḥiʔin (thlaa-yak-siin-hi-in) teaching within the ʔiisaak Pledge: Let us be generous and helpful: there is no end to the work of building community.
Join Washed Up Wednesdays beach cleans
Find this clean-up on a different beach every Wednesday this summer, up until August 31st. Help Clayoquot Sound stay free of pollution, while tracking what you pick up - from microplastics to food wrappers or cans. In addition to the good feeling of keeping beaches clean and safe, you could be entered to win a 3-night getaway at the iconic Wickaninnish Inn (right on Chesterman Beach). Get the schedule here.
Remote Clean-Ups with Surfrider Pacific Rim
Ready to go beyond Tofino? Register with the local Pacific Rim chapter of the Surfrider Foundation for clean-ups on August 12, September 14, and more.
Pacific Treefrog Chorus Project
Tiny frogs - not the first animal that comes to mind when you think "West Coast"- can inform us on the health of local ecosystems. If you hear Pacific Freefrogs croaking, download the iNaturalist app to your device, and simply record the sounds. This data you collect helps map the frogs - easy. Learn more about the project.
Sand Dune Restoration in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Even in this region that has been stewarded for millenia, there is a need for the restoration of areas affected by invasive species. Ready to dig in (literally)? Then, you'll enjoy this volunteer day in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve with Surfrider. Sign up here.
Sea Star Survey with Redd Fish Restoration Society
Sea stars are a vibrant, colourful form of life, and a wonder to see. Data collection by citizen scientists like you continues to contribute to multi-year research on the effects of Sea Star Wasting Disease. Join a monthly survey on Tonquin Beach, or with the Ucluelet Aquarium at their site. Learn more about it here.
Visit Naa'Waya'Sum Indigenous Coastal Gardens
The former Tofino Botanical Gardens have re-opened as a cultural space. The 12 acres of land are being re-wilded with traditional Indigenous ecological knowledge. You might even see a carver at work in the new carving space. Consider this a complementary experience to data collection, as you walk through ancient forests to Tofino Inlet, and enjoy time at the Clayoquot Café, with Chef Lisa Ahier (remember SoBo?) in the kitchen.
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