Surfrider Canada And Reef Collaborate On Developing The Network And Cleaning The Coast
Reef is a leader in promoting ocean conservation and supporting initiatives that protect the oceans, waves and beaches we all love. Surfrider Foundation Canada (SFC) was proud to have Reef come onboard this September as the title sponsor of both the SFC Annual Conference and the International Coastal Cleanup Day event on September 17th at Cox Bay in Tofino B.C.
Every year, SFC brings together volunteers and leaders from the chapters and clubs to learn, train and network with one another. Reef’s generous support allowed us to develop a powerful program that provide immense value to our network of chapter and club leaders. We spent three days together in Tofino from September 16 - 18 discussing various topics such as the shifting landscape of plastics advocacy in Canada, opportunities to elevate ocean protection work and how to prioritize justice, equity, diversity and inclusivity in our everyday work.
SFC Executive Director Lucas Harris presenting to conference attendees. Photo: David Boudinot
SFC Conference attendees and guests. Photo: Chelsea Parkinson
SFC was also super stoked to collaborate with Reef this year on hosting an International Coastal Cleanup event on September 17th at Cox Bay. This year, REEF collaborated with Surfrider Foundation to gather our global Surfrider community in 8+ countries to celebrate our ocean with a beach cleanup followed by a fun evening. The Canadian Surfrider team and Reef organized an event in Tofino this year that brought together local residents, visitors and our network of Surfrider volunteers in B.C.
The Tofino cleanup was a huge success. Over 60 volunteers participated, helping to clean 1.5km of beach and remove 1448 pieces of debris, weighing 37lbs.
After the cleanup, SFC and Reef organized a happy hour event at Long Beach Lodge, with support from Vancouver Island Brewery and Cinco Drink Co. Tacofino and RUX also sponsored the event provided some great raffle prizes.
Lynn Wharram from the Vancouver Island Chapter sorting debris. photo: Chelsea Parkinson
The team of volunteers dedicated to helping keep the shoreline clean. Photo: Chelsea Parkinson
Post clean up happy hour event. Cant imagine a better place to hang out after a beach cleanup. Photo Caitlin Hoey
