Nine Vancouver Island companies are set to receive funding through the Climate Ready B.C. Seafood Program. The province’s $1.7 million dollar fund is intended to increase understanding of ocean acidification and hypoxia and support B.C.’s coastal food security.

“We’re helping seafood producers prepare for and respond to climate change by supporting research and projects that promote the long-term health of B.C.’s oceans and the economy of our coastal communities,” said Pam Alexis, B.C. Minister of Agriculture and Food. “The continued partnership between scientists, governments and industry leaders will help ensure a strong, sustainable sector that provides people with fresh, local seafood for generations to come.”

• Island companies selected for the funding round include:
• Ocean Networks Canada
• Redd Fish Restoration Society
• Salish Sea Indigenous Guardians Association and Semiahmoo First Nation
• T Buck Suzuki Foundation
• North Island College
• Maaqutsiis Hahoutlhee Stewardship Society
• Vancouver Island University Green Lab
• Nova Harvest

Eleven proposals were selected in total. Projects will run from April 1, 2024 to March 31, 2026.