Marine Guardianship Program

The Tsawout Fisheries Department is excited to launch the Marine Guardian Program, inviting community members to help protect our marine environment. In the coming months, we’ll offer training to prepare you to become a Marine Guardian and help care for the waters that sustain us all.

What is a Marine Guardian?

Marine Guardians play a crucial role in keeping our oceans healthy. They monitor activities on the water—like fishing, whale watching, and boating—to ensure they’re done safely and sustainably. They’re also trained to respond quickly to environmental issues, such as oil spills, to protect marine life. Guardians help maintain the balance of the Salish Sea, ensuring it stays vibrant for future generations.

Training & Skills Development

The Marine Guardian Program offers training courses to build skills for working on the water, including:

• Marine Safety: Learn sea safety basics, including Marine First Aid, to handle emergencies.
• Boat Operator Certifications: Get certifications like the
  • Small Vessel Operator Proficiency (SVOP) and
  • Marine Radio (ROC-M) to safely operate boats and communicate on the water.
• Marine Mammal Observer Training: Learn how to observe and document marine mammals, ensuring their protection during marine activities.

These courses are a great way to learn new skills, explore career opportunities, and grow as a steward of the sea. As the program grows, more training options will become available!

Why Join?

As a Marine Guardian, you’ll gain hands-on experience and play an active role in keeping our waters healthy. It’s a chance to make a real difference while learning valuable skills.

Sign Up Now!

If you’re interested in joining, fill out the sign-up form below. Stay tuned for more details on training sessions, program updates, and upcoming events. Let’s work together to protect our oceans and build a brighter future!

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