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Canadian Biosphere Research Network (CBRN) is a network for researchers conducting both research ON (e.g., what is the significance and what are the practical applications of the concept?) and IN (research on a variety of topics that takes place in) biosphere reserves in Canada. In the words of one of the network's founders and early members, Munju Ravindra, "the object of the group is to provide a forum for cooperation, collaboration, discussion and information-sharing among those grappling with the biosphere reserve concept and with the challenges of doing research at the point where scientific & environmental issues and community development meet". Members of CBRN include government researchers, NGO's, biosphere reserve communities, university faculty, graduate students, and members of the Canadian Biosphere Reserve Association (CBRA).
Malaspina University-College is developing a major new strategic initiative in the establishment of an Institute for Coastal Research. This Institute will have an interdisciplinary research mandate focusing on coastal communities of the British Columbia and the Pacific North West. The Institute for Coastal Research seeks to conduct internationally respected, interdisciplinary research involving the natural sciences, the social sciences and the humanities. The focus is on understanding and promoting the resilience of our coastal communities.
Located in Barkley Sound, the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre provides year-round research facilities and technical assistance to scientists from Canadian universities as well as visiting international scientists. Their Public Education Program provides multi-day immersion field trips for school, college and adult learners, which focus on marine and coastal sciences. As part of their commitment to community they are involved in stewardship and conservation projects as well as facilitating innovative and extremely successful volunteer work experiences for young scientists.
In the powerful setting of Vancouver Island's rugged west coast, Hooksum Outdoor School provides intensive, hands-on, practical skills training; activities and experiences which facilitate awareness and intimate connection to the natural world; opportunities for personal and professional growth and leadership; and a whole lot of fun.
The aim of Geography 453 is to introduce students to the biophysical and social dimensions of coastal management within the context of an applied and integrated project. The 1-week field camp alternates each year from Ucluelet to Tofino, Vancouver Island. Students experience the geography and community first hand to develop skills in biophysical and social science research techniques. At the end of term, the class returns to the region to present their projects to the community in a poster session. Past project reports and posters are available on the course website.
Clayoquot Biosphere Trust
PO Box 67
Tofino, British Columbia
Canada V0R 2Z0
Phone 250-725-2219 (Tofino) 250-726-2086 (Ucluelet)
Fax 250-725-2384 (Tofino) 250-726-2087 (Ucluelet)
www.clayoquotbiosphere.org