Marine Education and Research Society workshop on BC's whale species and seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises and otters too! Intensive training for those working (or hoping to work) as whale watch naturalists, kayak guides, park staff, or others interested in gaining a deeper knowledge of the natural history and conservation of BC's marine mammals. Bring sharp pencils and lots of notepaper! A certificate of participation* will be provided to those who attend the full 3-day workshop. Aim of the workshop is to enable more people to inform and inspire marine mammal conservation.

Cost: $300 per person. A spot was secured with at $200 deposit (non-refundable).  Final payment of $100 was due March 1st.  

Location:  Location: Gatehouse Theatre, 1705 Campbell Way.  

If you have any questions, please contact info@mersociety.org. 

*Regarding certificates:
North Island College students and some participating kayak guides will also undergo a written test. 

Schedule (note that there may be adjustments made in the order that content is delivered): 

Workshop Day 1 

10 to 5:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break) 

• Introductions
• Marine Biodiversity of BC - from plankton to giants
• Classification of Marine Mammals 
• BC Killer Whale Populations - natural history and conservation concerns
• The Value of Being a Marine Mammal Naturalist #1 (includes tips on effective interpretive delivery)

Day 2

9:00 to 5:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break) 

• Seals and Sea Lions - natural history and conservation concerns
• Dolphins and Porpoises - natural history and conservation concerns
• Minke and Fin Whales - natural history and conservation concerns
• The Return of Giants - MERS research into Humpback Whales
• Grey Whales - natural history and conservation concerns

Day 3

9:00 to 4:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break)

• Sea Otters - natural history and conservation concerns
• Identifying Marine Mammals in the Field
• Man vs. Marine Mammal - summary of the complex human history with marine mammals
• Interpretation role play 
• Feedback and presentation of certificates

**For Port McNeill Naturalist Workshop participants only.**

Come join the MERS team and other workshop participants for an evening of food and mingling at the Sportsman Restaurant, 1547 Beach Dr.

The event starts at 6:30pm on Saturday, June 1st, after the second workshop day. The cost includes tax and gratuity. It’s a buffet dinner including salad, dessert, chicken or beef for non-vegetarians / spinach lasagna for the vegetarians. Drinks are not included.

Reserve your spot now, as space is limited.