Deep sea expedition
Something big is happening this week on the Central Coast.
Our Nations have partnered with Oceana Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Ocean Networks Canada to execute a deep sea expedition in Kitasoo/Xai’xais, Heiltsuk, and Wuikinuxv territories. Using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) the expedition team will probe deep into the waters of our territories, exploring areas of high ecological, cultural and economic significance, including Kynoch Inlet, Seaforth Channel and Fitz Hugh Sound.
Diving between 200 to 500m deep, the video and photos the expedition team will produce will show us a part of our territory we’ve never seen before; almost no scientific exploration has occurred at these depths on the Central Coast.
Diving betwen 200 to 500m deep, the video and photos the expedition team will produce will show us a part of our territory we’ve never seen before; almost no scientific exploration has occurred at these depths on the Central Coast.
For our Nations this is an opportunity to fill in data gaps that will enhance marine conservation planning, including the Marine Protected Areas network process that is now underway. In particular, this project will provide the first view of deep-water rockfish populations, sponges and corals in our territories.
In addition to gathering scientific data, the project will engage the youth of Klemtu and Bella Bella with scheduled visits to local schools, student visits to the research vessel, and through existing programs like the Supporting Emerging Aboriginal Stewards (SEAS) Community Initiative.
But the best part is you can join the expedition too! Oceana will be broadcasting live footage from the expedition. So if you’d ever wondered what it looks like down there now is your chance to find out.
Stay tuned to our blog and the CCIRA Facebook page for more updates from this exciting expedition!
