The Town of Qualicum Beach is inviting the public to take part in a Marine Debris Survey that will be held near the Shores Restaurant at the waterfront.
The event will take place on Wednesday, June 5 from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The town is partnering with the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute to host the survey during Ocean Week Canada - a national celebration of ocean knowledge, stewardship, and engagement.
Community members will participate in monitoring and removing marine debris, while building a deeper connection to the town's shoreline and ocean environment. It will focus on identifying, collecting, and categorizing marine debris and microplastics.
Data gathered will contribute to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Marine Debris Monitoring and Assessment Program (MDMAP), which supports international efforts to track coastal pollution and inform effective management practices.
This initiative promotes environmental awareness, encourages citizen science, and supports data-driven policy development to protect coastal ecosystems. With the help of volunteers, MABRRI plans to continue long-term monitoring efforts and contribute to broader environmental databases on marine debris and microplastics.
