Marine Education and Research Society

The Marine Education and Research Society (MERS) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the conservation and understanding of marine ecosystems. Established with a mission to promote marine conservation through scientific research, environmental education, and wildlife response, MERS operates primarily along the coast of British Columbia, Canada.

History and Background

MERS was founded by a group of friends inspired by the return of Humpback Whales to the northeast coast of Vancouver Island, an area known for its high productivity due to unique tidal exchanges, cold waters, and abundant plankton. They began by cataloguing individual whales to study their behaviors and site fidelity, discovering that many Humpbacks consistently returned to specific feeding areas year after year. This research led to the formation of the Canadian Pacific Humpback Collaboration (CPHC), a network involving other researchers cataloguing Humpbacks along the British Columbia coast.

Mission and Activities

The primary objectives of MERS include:

• Conducting scientific research to enhance knowledge of marine species and ecosystems.
• Providing environmental education aimed at increasing public awareness and understanding of marine conservation.
• Offering emergency marine wildlife response to assist injured or distressed marine animals.

Research conducted by MERS has notably focused on the feeding strategies of Humpback Whales, particularly their lunge-feeding technique on juvenile herring in the northeast Vancouver Island region. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of marine food webs and the ecological significance of whale populations in local ecosystems.

Conservation Efforts

MERS actively contributes to marine ecosystem conservation by disseminating research findings through public presentations, online platforms, and printed materials. Their educational initiatives serve to engage communities and promote stewardship of marine environments.

Organizational Status

MERS Marine Education and Research Society is a registered Canadian charity (Business Registration Number: 857599112RR0001), compliant with the Canada Revenue Agency regulations. This status enables MERS to receive charitable donations that support its research, education, and wildlife response programs.

Geographic and Cultural Context

Operating in the traditional territory of the Kwak̕wala-speaking peoples, MERS acknowledges and respects the cultural heritage of the Indigenous communities connected to the coastal regions where the society conducts its work.

The Marine Education and Research Society continues to be a vital contributor to marine science and conservation efforts in British Columbia through its integrated approach of research, education, and direct wildlife intervention.