The stunning rockfish is a familiar sight beneath the coastal waters of Vancouver Island, but this iconic local species is facing serious conservation challenges.
On Tuesday (July 15), marine naturalist and educator Andy Lamb will visit Campbell River to share his expertise on rockfish and the importance of protecting its populations.
The free public event will be hosted at Oceanfix Dive Centre (1401a Maple St.) and will include a barbecue at 6 p.m., followed by Lamb’s presentation at 7:15 p.m.
“We encounter rockfish during virtually every dive we make in our local waters,” said Stephen Neff, owner of Oceanfix. “It’s an honour to host Dr. Lamb and provide our community the opportunity to learn more about these beautiful fish and how we can help protect them.”
As former chief collector and education coordinator for the Vancouver Aquarium and fish culturist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Lamb brings a wealth of experience. He is also the co-author of two essential guides to our local waters: Marine Life of the Pacific Northwest and Coastal Fishes of the Pacific Northwest. In 2017, Lamb was appointed to the Royal Canadian Geographical Society’s College of Fellows.
During his talk, Lamb will explore the biology, behaviour, and vulnerability of rockfish, and offer insights into how we can better protect the species to ensure its abundance long into the future.
Admission is free and all are welcome, but space is limited. To attend, RSVP by Sunday, July 13 to info@oceanfix.ca and note preferred options for barbecue (meat or vegetarian).
