Tsunami debris is a danger to wildlife. As it was originally submerged in the marine environment (e.g. docks and ships), it can contain coastal aquatic invasive species. There is also terrestrial origin debris such as electrical goods, clothes and door frames. None of us would like to be exposed to these! Give us a hand, then!
Amelia Vos, Environmental Technician, is happy to announce that Huu-ay-aht will be participating in the Tsunami Debris Cleanup Event of Edward King and Diana Island. Staff, Anacla residents and Huu-ay-aht citizens are invited to volunteer with the Marine Station students. This is an excellent time to showcase the values of our Nation by working together to keep our coastal ecosystems clean and healthy.
Join us on November 12th and 13th, from 10 am to 2 pm, on the islands mentioned above, which are part of Huu-ay-aht’s Traditional Territory. Every participant will get a complimentary t-shirt, lunch and beverages. Contact Amelia now via email (amelia.v@huuayaht.org) or call her at 1-888-644-4555 or 250-728-3414 to register.
Click on the image to download some historical facts on tsunamis in this country:
Source: Catalyst for Science
James Spencer, Registered Professional Biologist who currently manages JAS Projects as an Environmental and Economic Development Consultant, and Amelia received a contract through the Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council (NTC) to coordinate tsunami debris cleanups in all the 14 Nuu-chah-nulth Nations. So far, they have organized two successful cleanups with Toquaht and Uchucklesaht First Nations (UFN). They will continue to coordinate with Tseshaht, UFN, Hesquiat, Ahousaht, and Ditidaht. To guarantee the continuity of this project, local First Nations must support the initiative.
One of the main objectives is to raise awareness on how to respond to marine and tsunami debris in and on coastal territory. Huu-ay-aht First Nations looks forward to working with its neighbours to get stronger and more in touch with nature as our ancestors taught us.
Did you know?
Enjoy this virtual exhibit about The Great Tsunami of 1964! Click on the image to see the gallery and read the stories:
Tsunami Smart: Get the 101
Other resources
Remembering the 1964 Port Alberni tsunami
This Week in History: Huge earthquake set off a tsunami that devastated Port Alberni
Natural Disasters CBC Digital archives