WHAT: Regional Research, Stewardship and Citizen Science Open House
WHEN: Wednesday, March 16, 2-8 pm
WHERE: Qualicum Beach Civic Centre
Anyone curious about research and community stewardship activities happening in the Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region (MABR) and surrounding area can learn more during the upcoming Regional Research, Stewardship and Citizen Science Open House on March 16.
The open house is hosted by Vancouver Island University’s (VIU’s) Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region Research Institute (MABRRI). The open house runs from 2-8 pm at the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre, 747 Jones Street in Qualicum Beach. Attendees can browse the booths to learn about citizen science and stewardship groups and also attend presentations by various speakers to learn about research initiatives in the area.
“This open house is a great opportunity for community members to come and learn what’s happening in the region and perhaps learn how they might be able to contribute their knowledge or expertise to the organizations at the event,” says Courtney Vaugeois, Assistant Research and Community Engagement Coordinator for MABRRI.
The open house is also the launch event for the MABR in Bloom: A Community Profile. The profile was developed by Alisha Feser and Pierce Melnick, VIU student research assistants, under the guidance of Dr. Sylvie Lafrenière, a VIU Sociology Professor, to give an overview of community vitality and health through social, economic and environmental factors. It was compiled from Statistics Canada data, a community survey, information from BC Parks, community organizations and others. It examines topics such as housing, income inequality, arts and culture, transportation and more.
The Mount Arrowsmith Biosphere Region provides habitat for the endangered Vancouver Island marmot, the Vancouver Island white-tailed ptarmigan and the area is under continual pressure from urban development, according to UNESCO.
Admission to the open house is free. Attendees must show proof of vaccination at the door and wear a mask to enter. Learn more about the open house on MABRRI’s website.
The open house is funded by the Canadian Mountain Network as part of VIU’s View from 2117 Project.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Rachel Stern, Communications Officer, Vancouver Island University
C: 250.618.0373 l E: [email protected] | T: @VIUNews
