Motivated by the need for caution, social solidarity, and doing our part to limit the spread of COVID-19, we have cancelled the Marine Naturalist Courses we had scheduled for 2020. The registrants for these courses have been contacted with next steps which includes the option of being among the first to have access to spots for Spring 2021 Courses.

We plan to have at least one Marine Naturalist Course in Spring 2021 (either in-person or online).
Stay tuned for updates on future courses.

Marine Education and Research Society course on BC's whale species and seals, sea lions, dolphins, porpoises and otters too! 
The aim of this course is to enable more people to inform and inspire marine mammal conservation.  This is intensive, in-classroom only, crash training for those working (or hoping to work) as whale watch naturalists, kayak guides, park staff, or others interested in gaining a deeper knowledge of the natural history and conservation of BC's marine mammals. It is not possible to only attend part of the course. Completion is recognized with a certificate of participation (North Island College students and some participating kayak guides will also undergo a written test).  

Cost: $300 per person ($200 non-refundable).

**Must be at least 18 years old to attend the course**

If you have any questions, please contact .

Course Day 1 

10 to 5:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break) 

• Introductions
• Marine Biodiversity of BC - from plankton to giants
• Classification of Marine Mammals 
• BC Killer Whale Populations - natural history and conservation concerns
• The Value of Being a Marine Mammal Naturalist #1 (includes tips on effective interpretive delivery)

Day 2

9:00 to 5:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break) 

• Seals and Sea Lions - natural history and conservation concerns
• Dolphins and Porpoises - natural history and conservation concerns
• Minke and Fin Whales - natural history and conservation concerns
• The Return of Giants - MERS research into Humpback Whales
• Grey Whales - natural history and conservation concerns

Optional activity:  Social Dinner 

Day 3

9:00 to 4:30 (2 x 15 minute breaks and a 1 hour lunch break)

• Sea Otters - natural history and conservation concerns
• Identifying Marine Mammals in the Field
• Man vs. Marine Mammal - summary of the complex human history with marine mammals
• Interpretation role play 
• Feedback and presentation of certificates