Threats
British Columbians are truly fortunate to have some of the last intact marine environments right in their backyard. Glimpsing a pod of orca from the ferry, exploring tide pools alive with sea critters, and seeing flocks of seabirds fill the sky remind us of how abundant life is here.
Globally, oceans are experiencing collapsing fish stocks, oil-spill contamination, escalating pollution levels, and increasing numbers of “dead zones”, creating a sense of hopelessness. But the relatively healthy marine ecosystems of Canada's North Pacific Coast offer a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate how responsible management can help to maintain the health and productivity of the region for generations to come.
The opportunity won’t last forever, though. The time to act is now. And while marine life in Canada's North Pacific waters is relatively healthy, it is also showing signs of stress. Increasing pressure from industrial activities and escalating demand for seafood is creating a greater need for good management. The whole system must be in good health if it is to continue to provide social benefits and economic opportunities.
Some success stories of good management in B.C. give us hope that, with proper leadership and commitment, we can reverse some of the negative trends we are seeing in the ocean today.
