05/09/2024
Paddle out for Wild Salmon and Healthy Oceans
Let’s take action on June 1—BC Wild Salmon Day! Join us for a Paddle Out for Wild Salmon and Healthy Oceans at Tin Wis Beach. On June 30, all salmon farm licenses will expire. It’s time to send a message to the Fisheries Minister: salmon farms must only be given one year licenses, so they can grow out and get out!
We’ll meet up on the beach for a traditional welcome, and hear from Gisele Martin, Tla-o-qui-aht cultural educator and Kwakwabalas - Chief Ernest Alfred, traditional and elected leader of the 'Na̱mg̱is First Nation. Musician Luke Wallace will share a few songs before we get on the water. Don’t want to get on the water? Please join us on the beach to show your support. The folks from the Temple of Stoke—Patagonia Vancouver will have a booth, and there'll be a draw for some cool swag!
Bring your surf board, paddle board, canoe or kayak and we’ll paddle out to and encircle an 18 metre long 'Fish Farms Out' floating banner. There will be a moment of silence for the loss of salmon and other species impacted by fish farms. And a chance to share some words about a vision for a future with thriving salmon runs and healthy oceans.
What is a paddle out? The paddle out is a spiritual tradition of surf culture. Originating in Hawai'i as a tribute to the life and legacy of people who passed away. Paddle Outs are also used by surfers worldwide to raise awareness and protest environmental issues such as pollution and loss of biodiversity.
When we see that what we love is in trouble, we act. On the Paddle Out, we'll address the importance of healthy oceans and the harms being caused by open-net pen salmon farms that pollute the waters with pesticides, pathogens and parasites, plastics and p**p.
FREE event / Everyone welcome!
* Meeting location Tin Wis Beach (MacKenzie).
* Please take the shuttle or share your ride.
* Parking: public access at the end of Hellesen Drive.
* Wear a wetsuit or PFD on the water.
* Bring a friend!
This event is part of the Wild Salmon Weekend. On Friday night check out the Fish Farm Medicine Revival Roadshow! Featuring Luke Wallace, and the documentary Salmon Secrets. With special guests Gisele Martin, Tla-o-qui-aht citizen, cultural educator, and artist; and Kwakwabalas - Chief Ernest Alfred, traditional and elected leader of the 'Na̱mg̱is First Nation.
Early Bird tickets are on sale now! Get tickets.
We respectfully acknowledge that the land we gather on is the unceded traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations.