The Voice of Business, produced by the Parksville and District Chamber of Commerce, featured articles by their summer student employees. This is the final feature article by our summer student employees. This week Michael Rowswell writes about the Deep Bay Field Station.
As you drive down the winding oyster shell road and approach Vancouver Island University’s Deep Bay Marine Field Station, you can’t help but be struck by the uniqueness of the building and the stunning views it provides. Since its completion in 2011, the Station has been home to the VIU’s effort to sustain the shellfish population off Vancouver Island’s coast; while at the same time, doubling as a wonderful educational resource for students and the public alike.
Before you enter the Field Station, the first thing you will notice is the distinctive shape of the building. Built to mimic the shape of a shellfish, the building not only has a unique design, but is among the greenest buildings in Canada. VIU’s efforts to produce a green building were successful when the Field Station was awarded Platinum LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification.
Although the primary goal of the Station is research, the Station serves as an excellent tourist attraction for people of all interests.
Those who are interested in the coastal ecosystem can view the aquarium found in the foyer and can head downstairs to use one of the touch tanks featuring animals such as sea cucumbers, shellfish and sea stars.
The Station is always increasing its collection of ocean themed artwork. For those who really want to experience the sea, the Station offers guided group tours of the sights around Baynes Sound on one of their research boats.
While the Station is used for educational and research purposes much of the time, it can be rented out for private events. The Field Station is equipped with a patio setting, full audio visual, a full kitchen for catering and stunning views. This makes the Station an excellent location for weddings, conferences and workshops.
This summer, the Station has played host to public events, including Music bythe Bay, which was three evenings of music that took place over the course of August.
The Field Station will remain open to the public for the winter and admission is by donation, with the recommended being $5.
The Station is constantly adding new exhibits and artwork so be sure to come down and experience all the Station has to offer.
— Michael Rowswell