It is Time to Listen to Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound
In the summer of 2023, Brunswick Beach residents experienced a mass herring bait ball pass along the shoreline, aggregations of California sea lions, followed by many humpback and killer whale sightings. Long-term residents stated they had never experienced this in their lifetime of living on Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound. Thus, we believe it is time to document, share, and protect this revival through the non-invasive methods of underwater acoustics.
Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound Revival is a newly founded community-based non-profit organization based in Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region. Our current focus is on the collection of underwater acoustic data to document and share the revival of marine life in Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound with the North Shore and surrounding community. By deploying a hydrophone station, recording all underwater sounds of whales, fish, mammals and anthropogenic noise, and joining the BC Hydrophone Network (BCHN), we aim to monitor whale activity and broadcast in real time the underwater world back to the community. This will support the recovery of and ensure Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound remains a safe and quiet habitat for whales, future generations, and Indigenous communities. The data collected will foster awareness, connection, and conservation efforts among North Shore residents and decision-makers. You can learn more about the History of Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound and why we are interested in Listening on our website.
Creating a good quality audio stream from a hydrophone that will withstand the marine environment is an expensive endeavour. This is why listening to and protecting the marine mammals of Átl’ka7tsem/Howe Sound will take a community of support. See how you can help financially or as a volunteer to bring this project to life.
