The Coastal Ocean Research Institute (Fiona Beaty) and David Suzuki Foundation (Willem van Riet and Bill Wareham) have been researching reliable known data and mapping Howe Sound/Atl’kitsem’s marine ecology to identify marine conservation needs and opportunities.
This mapping project is designed to be useful to all of us who care about the biodiversity of Howe Sound. It takes time to learn about what it provides and the maps become more familiar as we spend time with them. A good way to start could be to look at map layers for two topics of general interest: cetacean (whale, dolphin, and porpoise) sightings and the location of glass sponge reefs.
In addition to the many layers now available for all of Howe Sound, there will also be six larger-scale maps showing different sections of the overall area. We will be able zoom in on a smaller area and access reports and other information about them. Our area is from Porteau Cove north.
Click on “help” at the top of the maps for a Navigation Guide that explains what’s available and how to use the maps. The project offers opportunities for us to help look after this special area whose biodiversity is threatened by the rapid development up the Sea to Sky Corridor.
Photo courtesy of Tim Gage.