2 May 2018
Ocean Networks Canada and the Tsleil-Waututh Nation are announcing the formation of a new partnership to monitor and improve the health of Burrard Inlet. The objective is to better understand the cumulative effects of climate change, industry, and development on environmental conditions in and around the inlet.
The new partnership is supported by a $1.5-million investment by the federal government in scientific observing systems and training for Tsleil-Waututh community members. The systems include a state-of-the-art internet-connected seafloor observatory and a mobile application that allows vessel operators to collect ocean data. The two systems will provide comprehensive ocean data from seafloor to surface.
Member of Parliament for Burnaby North–Seymour Terry Beech hosted the signing ceremony at the Parliament Buildings in Ottawa and said, “This project highlights the continued investments our government is making in protecting and restoring our ocean and marine ecosystems. I continue to work closely with the Tsleil-Waututh Nation and organizations like Ocean Networks Canada to ensure that we are restoring our environment for the benefit of future generations.”
“This partnership is an exciting opportunity to work with the Tsleil-Waututh to monitor our changing ocean in downtown Vancouver’s busy waterway. The data will inform how their coastal habitat can be protected and enhanced.” says Kate Moran, president/CEO of Ocean Networks Canada.
Chief Maureen Thomas said “Tsleil-Waututh envisions a sustainable future for Burrard Inlet, where wild foods harvested by our ancestors are abundant, and our waters are clean and healthy. We may have our disagreements about other issues, but I'm glad we can find some common ground. The launch of this new partnership is an important step to ensure the future of our region.”
About Ocean Networks Canada
The University of Victoria’s Ocean Networks Canada monitors the west and east coasts of Canada and the Arctic to continuously deliver data in real-time for scientific research that helps communities, governments and industry make informed decisions about our future. Using cabled observatories, remote control systems and interactive sensors, and big data management ONC enables evidence-based decision-making on ocean management, disaster mitigation, and environmental protection.
About Tsleil-Waututh Nation
Tsleil-Waututh Nation is a progressive, vibrant Coast Salish community of approximately 600 members. The Nation is located along the shores of Burrard Inlet in North Vancouver, B.C., Canada.
Media contacts:
Ocean Networks Canada Communications
onc-comms@uvic.ca
Tsleil-Waututh Nation
Sarah Thomas
604-358-3371
media@twnation.ca
