Current Projects

At Cedar Coast Society, we are committed to advancing community-driven, impactful research that supports the conservation and understanding of the diverse ecosystems along the west coast of Vancouver Island. Here are some of the projects we’re currently working on:

Sea Lice Monitoring

Since 2017, our sea louse monitoring program has tracked the impact of sea lice on juvenile salmon migrating through Clayoquot Sound, particularly in areas near salmon farms. The program monitors wild juvenile salmon to assess their health and survival, as these young fish are highly vulnerable to sea lice infestation. By collecting rigorous, objective, annual data, the program provides a third-party assessment of juvenile salmon health in the area.

Understanding Invasive Kelp

In 2025, we are launching a new initiative to raise awareness about the invasive algae Japanese wireweed (Sargassum muticum). In collaboration with Sea Change Marine Conservation, we will conduct comprehensive surveys to track the spread of Japanese wireweed, launch a community action campaign to engage local populations, and develop effective strategies for managing its impact along BC’s coastlines.

Coexisting with Coastal Wolves

In 2017, we set up the first wildlife camera on our property. Our intention was to learn more about the wolf population inhabiting the island without causing discomfort or confrontation. Keeping an eye on the local wolf population has since turned into a larger, more collaboative project with Parks Canada, BC Parks, The Nature Conservancy of Canada, Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society, and the Wildlife Restoration Ecology Lab (University of Northern British Columbia) to try and understand how the Vargas wolves connect with those throughout the rest of Clayoquot Sound. To learn more about the wolf monitoring taking place in Clayoquot Sound.

Get Involved

Whether you’re a student, community member, not-for-profit organization, Indigenous knowledge holder, or government agency, we are always eager to expand our research network and engage new collaborators. If you’re interested in partnering on a project or connecting with us in any capacity, we’d love to hear from you by contacting us below.