Fisheries and Aquaculture
October 9, 2014
Engaging Youth in Marine Studies
Province Supports the Trading Books for Boats Initiative
Junior High students from the Corner Brook, Bay of Islands, and Humber Valley regions of the province are taking to the open water to learn about coastal and ocean ecosystems through the Trading Books for Boats initiative, a project developed by the Atlantic Coastal Action Program (ACAP) Humber Arm. The Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture provided $25,500 to ACAP Humber Arm this year for various initiatives, including Trading Books for Boats.
“As a government, we are committed to promoting education and awareness of coastal and ocean issues, and to encouraging a greater appreciation of our vital ocean resources. We are pleased to support the Trading Books for Boats program, which provides hands on education experiences that help youth learn about real issues that affect coastal communities and the ocean environment.”
- The Honourable Vaughn Granter, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture
The Trading Books for Boats program was created and launched by ACAP Humber Arm in 2002. The program provides opportunities for students to collect data and learn about topics such as marine ecosystems and species, aquatic invasive species, marine debris, and ocean technology.
“We are delighted once again to offer this innovative program and appreciate the continued support of the Provincial Government. Trading Books for Boats provides a wonderful opportunity for students to leave the traditional classroom setting and learn about the importance of marine science in its natural setting.”
- Sheldon Peddle, Executive Director, ACAP Humber Arm
ACAP Humber Arm is a non-profit organization focusing on marine and coastal issues in western Newfoundland. Formed in 1991, the organization has established itself as a leader in integrated coastal management through its scientific research, environmental education, and community engagement initiatives. In 2007, the Trading Books for Boats program was the Gold Medal recipient of Canadian Geographic's national environmental awards.
QUICK FACTS
- The Provincial Government provided $25,500 to support a variety of initiatives by ACAP Humber Arm, including the Trading Books for Boats program, which provides students with hands on learning experiences about marine environments.
- Support for Trading Books for Boats is consistent with the Education and Awareness strategic goal of the provincial Coastal and Ocean Management Strategy and Policy, which provides direction on the sustainable use of the province’s marine resources.
- Provincial Government funding provided to ACAP Humber Arm also supports a public speaker series on marine issues, as well as monitoring and reporting on the status of various aquatic invasive species.
- In addition to supporting Trading Books for Boats, the Provincial Government engages young people in marine studies by funding a variety of scholarships, and also supports student placements at the Centre for Fisheries Ecosystems Research at the Marine Institute.
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Media contacts: Jason Card Director of Communications Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture 709-729-3733, 699-0470 jasoncard@gov.nl.ca |
Sheldon Peddle Executive Director ACAP Humber Arm 709-637-2883 |
2014 10 09 11:50 a.m.