Nestled in the lush, biodiverse Clayoquot Sound on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, lies a grassroots environmental organization making waves—Clayoquot Action. Founded in 2013 by Bonny Glambeck and Dan Lewis, this advocacy group is fiercely dedicated to protecting the biocultural diversity of the region through research, education, and direct action. Their work is rooted in a love for the area’s wild ecosystems and a vision for a sustainable future.
A Legacy of Action
Clayoquot Action’s origins trace back to the 1993 Clayoquot Summer, a historic protest movement against industrial logging in one of the world’s most pristine temperate rainforests. Drawing on the energy and lessons of that era, the organization continues to fight for ecological preservation, taking on modern threats such as oil spills, mining, and, most notably, industrial salmon farming.
The Fight Against Salmon Farms
Wild salmon—a keystone species vital to the health of British Columbia’s ecosystems—are in a precarious state. Populations have plummeted due to various factors, including climate change, deforestation, and the expansion of ocean-based salmon farms. These farms, often located near wild salmon habitats, contribute to sea lice infestations, viral outbreaks, and the release of untreated waste into marine environments.
Clayoquot Action’s flagship Clayoquot Salmon Investigation (CSI) program plays a pivotal role in exposing the harmful practices of salmon farms. From documenting mass fish die-offs to revealing pesticide dumping in critical whale feeding habitats, CSI sheds light on the often-hidden costs of industrial aquaculture. The organization’s efforts have amplified calls for the federal government to fulfill its commitment to transition away from open-net pen salmon farming by 2025.
A Vision for the Future
Beyond salmon farming, Clayoquot Action remains vigilant in addressing other threats to the region’s ecological and cultural integrity. By advocating for Indigenous rights, democratic values, and the inherent rights of nature, the group emphasizes the interconnectedness of environmental health and social justice.
Public engagement is central to their mission. Through educational events, citizen science programs, and creative activism—such as mock oil spills and human banners—Clayoquot Action inspires individuals to take a stand. Their message is clear: protecting the environment requires collective effort and bold action.
How You Can Help
Clayoquot Sound is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a designation that underscores its global significance. However, its survival depends on the dedication of groups like Clayoquot Action and the support of concerned citizens worldwide. Here’s how you can contribute:
- Stay Informed: Follow Clayoquot Action’s campaigns and updates via their website.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Reach out to policymakers to support the removal of ocean-based salmon farms.
- Donate or Volunteer: Financial contributions and volunteer efforts directly support their work.
- Choose Sustainable Seafood: Opt for wild-caught salmon and educate others about the impacts of industrial fish farming.
Conclusion
Clayoquot Action exemplifies how grassroots activism can create meaningful change. By shining a spotlight on threats to Clayoquot Sound’s wild ecosystems and advocating for sustainable alternatives, they are safeguarding one of Earth’s ecological treasures for generations to come. Whether you’re a local resident or an advocate from afar, supporting their mission helps protect the intricate web of life in this remarkable region.