Racerocks.com continues to reach to the far corners of the world as more and more people become aware of this extraordinary ecosystem and the opportunity to discover it electronically.(over 100,000 visitors in the past year) Garry Fletcher, our Educational Director, has attended conferences in New York, California (twice) and in the near future plans to go to Halifax. In each case we have featured live webcasts from Race Rocks with video from both above and below the surface to the conference site. On March 17, 2001 we completed the first underwater webcast in which in addition to video one of our student divers spoke directly to the conference participants from underwater at Race Rocks. This was possible thanks to a fabulous, locally developed, wireless underwater communications system created by Divelink.

A wireless internet feed from Race Rocks is now possible for eco-tourism vessels in the MPA. Visitors to the MPA can now establish wireless internet access aboard their vessel from most locations within the MPA. This allows guides to download real time video streams showing activity in the MPA including underwater video from the display tanks on the island. In addition, visitors can have access to archived video of marine life, First Nation’s activities and more recent history stored on the Race Rocks server. If you are interested in more information about the equipment required and how you could subscribe to this service please contact Angus Matthews.

Eco-guardians Mike and Carol Slater continue to do an outstanding job for us all as our resident caretakers of the island and equipment. We are grateful to Mike and Carol for their dedication and commitment to Race Rocks and it’s many residents. It is also reassuring to know that their watchful eyes are always looking out for us.
Should you need to contact them they are usually monitoring VHF 16 or 68.

Site restoration has continued on the island over the winter. In late April the Coast Guard finished flying out the last of the concrete from the dykes that surrounded the old tank farm. This has returned another large portion of the island to a natural state. We are working with BC Parks to establish a plant life inventory of Great Race Island. We have modified the Coast Guard’s old lawn mowing compulsion to allow more of the natural grasses and vegetation to take over the island. A small perimeter is maintained around the buildings for fire safety and Mike and Carol of course maintain their traditional kitchen garden.

BC Parks has assumed ownership of the area of Great Race Island that was previously leased to the Coast Guard. A small area around the light tower and solar panels has been retained by the Coast Guard as they are still responsible for the automated navigational aids. All the remaining infrastructure on the island has been given over to BC Parks. Pearson College has entered into a 30 year park use permit agreement with BC Parks to continue to operate the facility as we have for the past four years.

Serious financial challenges lie ahead. Now that the federal Millennium Partnership funding that established racerocks.com has been exhausted we are receiving no financial support for the operation of the Race Rocks MPA from any government. We are hopeful that BC Parks and DFO which established the MPA will respond positively to our application for them to provide a contribution of $50,000 each towards operating costs. Pearson College has undertaken to raise the balance required to cover the $150,000 annual budget. We hope that the eco-tourism industry will consider assisting us in the future as a demonstration of the commitment you have to environmental protection and Canada’s first Marine Protected Area. See $ave Race Rock$

Please excuse our questionable flag etiquette! One of the pitfalls of joint federal/provincial jurisdiction is they both want their label on the product. At the request of our current MLA we are now flying both the BC and Canadian flag on the same mast on the island. Until the funding arrangements are worked out it is simply prudent to do so!

The special operational guidelines for Race Rocks established by the eco-tourism operators have been largely respected and we greatly appreciate the individual commitment vessel operators have made to following them. We are now working on better cooperation from other organisations such as the Navy and education of the general public. Our proceedure is to log all infractions and contact the operator or their owner directly to advise them of a difficulty. The level of cooperation and voluntary compliance from the eco-tourim sector has been outstanding and we appreciate it a great deal.

Operator training for the 2001 season is now occurring in many eco-tourism organisations. Many of your operators have received special training about the MPA in the past. If the number of new operators warrants it, we have offered to host a training session ashore at Race Rocks in the near future. Please contact Dan Kukat if you think this is necessary.

Marine life at the Race features several elephant seals again this year and the sea lion/ harbour seal population looks fairly strong for the time of year. Already a number of harbour seal pups have been born, and this emphasizes the need for cautious navigation through the area as they are very vulnerable. Serious bird nesting activity is starting so our activity on the island and access is now being limited. Chick survival on the island was very poor last year largely due to what appeared to be starvation. Hopefully more of the usual food sources will return this year.

We look forward to another successful season of protection and education at the Race. Thank you for all you do to share this experience with an appreciative public.

Angus Matthews

Director of Administration and Special Projects, Lester Pearson College

Oil Tank Farm Restoration

Posted on Saturday,April 28, 2001 by Garry Fletcher

Background:
The automation and the de-staffing of the former Coast Guard-Operated Light Station on Great Race Rocks happened in 1997. This would normally have left the island without a generator, as all buildings and equipment were to be removed when the automated foghorn and the light were installed, there was theoretically no need for a generating station.

Lester Pearson College decided to hire the former keepers, Mike and Carol Slater, to stay on at the island as ecological reserve guardians. Since that time the Coastguard has cooperated to keep the equipment updated.
Two new double walled tanks that meet environmental standards were constructed next to the engine room on the island. Fortunately, the need for oil on the island will be reduced in the future when more Sustainable Energy Systems are developed.

Since the Coast Guard lease from the Provincial Environment and Lands Department was changed to reflect the decreasing envelope of use by the Coast Guard, the rest of the Island was then returned to the Province, and plans were made to include that as part of the Ecological Reserve. An agreement was made with Coast Guard and Provincial Environment officials as to what would constitute site remediation for the island.
This image shows the 7 old fuel tanks used for energy. They were single walled tanks and they could have contributed to an oil spill in that sensitive environment. The concrete pool around the cradles was built to contain any leaks or spills

In the spring of 2000, they had planned to remove the concrete base for the oil drums as well, but it was considered that it may prove too much of an environmental impact given that the pigeon guillemots, sea gulls and black oystercatchers were establishing nesting territories .They agreed to put it off until a time in the year of minimal impact. It was decided that January and February would be ideal. By May of 2001, the Canadian Coast Guard removed the set of 7 fuel old oil tanks from Great Race Rocks. These tanks had been installed in the 1970’s when the environmental regulations regarding such installations were not as stringent as they are today.

On January 16, 2001 the coast guard delivered by helicopter the equipment necessary for removal of the concrete tank farm retaining berm.
By mid- February, a large pile of concrete rubble was all that was left of the cradle.

. The concrete had been neatly pealed from the original rocks underneath and it was now ready for the next stage.. Removal by helicopter.

By the end of April 2001, the Coast Guard had completed the removal of all the concrete rubble by helicopter and the outcrop is restored to bare rock again.

We have attempted to keep out invasive plant species and have planted seeds from native grasses in the small crevices of the rock. The seagulls responded to this new extension of territory and within two years took it over as a nest site

These pictures were taken in February, 2005. From the tower, the area which contained the tank farm, is no longer distinguishable.
The rock outcrops have been recolonized by native plants.

We also watch for excessive growth of introduced invasive species, and selectively remove them by hand

Link to the environmental restoration file

First Nations Cooperative Management of Protected Areas in British Columbia, Tools and Foundation

Posted on Sunday,April 15, 2001 by Garry Fletcher

The following excerpt presents the Te’Mexw Treaty Association assertion in response to the proposal for the Race Rocks MPA in 1998. See bolding below:

First Nations Cooperative Management of Protected Areas in British Columbia:
Tools and Foundation
by Julia Gardner Dovetail Consulting April 2001

From page 9:

An ecosystem approach
The designation of special management zones in LRMPs recognizes that protected areas
cannot be managed as islands: buffers and connecting corridors beyond their boundaries
are needed to ensure that ecological integrity is protected. Similarly, marine protected
areas cannot protect marine biodiversity on their own – they should be implemented as a
part of integrated coastal zone management.
The management of protected areas on an ecosystem level is a priority that has been
brought into the public eye recently through the report of the Panel on the Ecological
Integrity of Canada’s National Parks (Parks Canada Agency, 2000) and the report of
B.C.’s Park Legacy Panel (MELP, 1999). There is growing recognition that the
ecosystems of protected areas cannot be protected without attention to the portions of
their ecosystems falling outside their boundaries, as opposed to being “islands in a sea of
development.”

In the marine setting, there is a parallel rationale for an ecosystem approach, often under
the label, “integrated coastal zone management.” But in this “sea of development” where
fluid ecosystems even more thoroughly defy protection via boundaries, some argue that
protected areas are contrary to the priority of protecting the whole environment. For
example, “The Nuu-chah-nulth believe that all marine areas should be treated respectfully
for the gifts that nature provides. The concept of establishing certain areas for favourable protection while mismanagement occurs in areas outside of protected zones is foreign to
Nuu-chah-nulth principles” (Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, November 13, 1998) Similarly, the Te’Mexw Treaty Association asserted in response to the proposal for the
Race Rocks MPA in 1998 that “It is the position of the Nations that a coordinated co-management program for the coast from Jordan River to Ten Mile Point would be the appropriate method by which conservation, harvest and priority for First Nations users can be integrated” (Moahan, 1998,p7). at the very least, MPAs need to be considered in their broader setting, including the watershed and the surrounding sea.

A sixth key assumption is that land and sea are an integrated whole, so MPAs
alone cannot protect the marine environment. Nevertheless, we can usefully
consider the particular circumstances of protected areas in the water, so as to
increase their extent and effectiveness through cooperative management.

Financial Proposal For Race Rocks Operation

Posted on Sunday,April 1, 2001 by Garry Fletcher

The following operational budget provided details of projected minimum operational expenses at Race Rocks for the period April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2002. The budget is based on our four years of experience in funding the Race Rocks project and the highly efficient operational format we have established. Pearson College guarantees to cover any cost over runs if they should occur.

It is proposed that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, BC Parks, and Pearson College each contribute $50,000 to cover the 2001-2002 operating budget.

(Ed Note: As of 2012 Neither Provincial or Federal governments have responded to this request with any financial support. During that time Pearson College has raised funding separate from the college funding to maintain operations at Race Rock.)

Race Rocks MPA/ER
Operating Budget April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2002


Salaries
Eco-guardian(s)	42,000
Educator (1/2 time)	30,000
Shore-side support (1/3 time)	14,000
Benefits	9,460
	95,460

Fuel
Generator	11,000
Heating	1,400
Boat	1,750
Lube/oils	2,000
	16,150

Maintenance
Buildings	6,000
Generators	4,300
Water pumps	2,100
Desalinator	2,200
Winches	800
Boat and motor	4,700
Jetty	400
Fuel system	450
Radios	200
Diving equipment	2,500
	23,650

Administration Costs
Phone	600
Insurance	1,800
Stationery/printing	1,150
	3,550
Education Program
Classroom materials	4,500
Communication/outreach programs	2,500
First Nations’ program	5,000
Internet access	2,000
	14,000

Total expenditures	$152,810

Provincial Proposal for Race Rocks MPA Funding

Posted on Thursday,February 15, 2001 by Garry Fletcher

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area
OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002

Presented to: Province of British Columbia
BC Parks
Attention:Denis O’Gorman
Assistant Deputy Minister
January 31, 2001

Background

BC Parks was among the first to recognize the extraordinary value of this treasured eco-system. In 1980 the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve was established to protect marine life on the rocky outcrops and the ocean floor extending to a depth of 20 fathoms. Great Race Island, home to the Race Rocks light station was leased to the Federal Government since BC joined confederation. As a result the Island was excluded from the Ecological Reserve.

As a consequence of a Federal decision to de-staff the light station in 1997, the keepers were to be removed and they would no longer provide the essential supervision required for full protection of the Reserve. In excess of $25 million worth of commercially exploitable species are known to exist within the Reserve area. The presence of the keepers was determined to be essential for continued protection. Coast Guard agreed to a special short-term agreement whereby Pearson College would retain the former light keepers as eco-guardians and operate the surplus facilities as a new Marine Education Centre until such time as a permanent solution for the operation of Race Rocks could be found.

BC Parks and the Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans began community consultations in 1998 to assess the possibility of Race Rocks being recognized as Canada’s first Marine Protected Area. For the first time, Race Rocks, with the cooperation of both levels of government would be truly protected with a management plan that included both the Provincially managed Ecological Reserve and the Federally controlled water column.

On January 24, 2001 Great Race Island (except for a small piece of land which accommodates the navigational aids) reverted back to the Province of British Columbia under the control of BC Parks.

A New Beginning

A long-term Parks permit is currently being prepared by BC Parks to allow Pearson College to operate the facilities at Race Rocks as a Marine Science and Education Centre in accordance with the new management plan and the original rationale from 1980 when the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve was established.

For the first time, the Race Rocks eco-system enjoys full protection under a unified management plan with the authority of both the Provincial and Federal governments. An important new provision has also been made for the full involvement of First Nations in on-going management of the Race Rocks area. The priorities of protecting ecological values, education and research are the primary focus of the recently developed management plan.

Scope of the Race Rocks Project

The key activities that Pearson College will manage on behalf of BC Parks include:
Protection
- Continuous supervision of the island and Reserve by resident eco-guardian.
- Security for buildings, equipment and infrastructure (24 hrs/day all year).
- Vigilant observation of activities within the Reserve and if needed, reporting of infractions to appropriate agencies.
- Electronic video monitoring of the Ecological Reserve by enforcement agencies.
- Restrict access to specific areas as necessary.
Safety
- Observe and report any situations which may represent a safety hazard.
- Assist individuals in distress when required and liaise with rescue agencies.
- Assist in emergency communications.
- Be vigilant for fire hazards.
- Monitor for the occurrence of hazardous material spills.
Science

Continue monitoring program for weather conditions.
- Continue monitoring program for seawater temperature and salinity.
- Ongoing protection of unique Northern Abalone populations and monitoring of population and growth rates.
- Annual intertidal and subtidal transect site monitoring.
- Installation of environmental scan sensor arrays for air, soil and seawater with full accessibility on the Internet.
- Observation and recording of marine mammal and bird populations.
- Daily ecological events log.
- Support for visiting scientists.
- Development of alternative energy solutions.
The Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans began community

Education
- Development of curriculum materials for K-12 use.
- Cooperative development of information about First Nations focusing on the history of traditional uses and creating a supporting curriculum.
- Operation and continuous upgrading of the racerocks.com education site with a major commitment for the production of online archived video for classroom and public use.
- Interactive web cast production and delivery for use by schools, science centres, museums and conferences.
- Public education programs for visitors to the Race Rocks area.
- Education programs in cooperation with eco-tourism industry and dive community.
Operations
- - Supervision and monitoring of operating systems including generators, water systems, heating systems and data network.
  - Routine preventative maintenance for all buildings, equipment and infrastructure.
  - Maintenance of station vessel.
  - Assistance to government agencies with equipment installed at Race Rocks.
Eco-guardian / Project Management

Pearson College is uniquely qualified and suited to operate and manage Race Rocks on behalf of BC Parks and the public.
Located 3.7 nautical miles from Pearson Collegeâs docks at Pedder Bay, Race Rocks is within easy reach in moderate weather conditions. In addition to the Race Rocks station boat, Pearson College operates two purpose built aluminum workboats suitable for transporting fuel, personnel, equipment and supplies to Race Rocks.

Pearson College staff provides all logistical support required for the efficient operation of Race Rocks. Qualified staffing for maintenance, accounting, purchasing and deliveries are all coordinated by existing College systems. Mike and Carol Slater, the former light-house keepers, are now employed by Pearson College and they live at Race Rocks. They are particularly well qualified to supervise and operate the facility after 30 years of experience with the Coast Guard and extensive experience observing marine life. Over the past 14 years they have been responsible for dealing with the public in the Reserve area and, when necessary, reporting infractions to the appropriate agency. Many of the College’s suppliers such as Nixon Electrical Services, Day’s Welding, Aramark Services, Henning’s Plumbing and others offer their services to Race Rocks at reduced rates or by donation.
It is an extraordinary legacy of the Millennium Partnership Fund and our partners that Race Rocks is now the most technologically advanced Marine Protected Area in the world. The state of the art information technology system includes a full island network, wireless technology, remote controlled live video streams from above and below water and an environmental data array all streamed live on the Internet for public use. Major sponsorships from Apple, Apple Learning, LGS Group, Sorenson, Sony, Telus, Yamaha, Seapoint Sensors, the Vancouver Aquarium and others support the Race Rocks project.As an educational institution Pearson College applies significant educational resources to the Race Rocks project. Environmental Systems/Biology faculty member Garry Fletcher serves as Educational Director of the Race Rocks program. Supported by students involved in web design, scuba diving, vessel operation, photography, video production, research and school program delivery, Garry has established an award winning education program at Race Rocks. This program is widely used by provincial agencies such as the Open Learning Agency, Ministry of Education, University of Victoria and the Royal British Columbia Museum. In the past year alone there have been over 65,000 users of the racerocks.com site.
This project has proved conclusively that there can be mass electronic public access to a protected area without the negative impact of large numbers of visitors to the islands. Race Rocks provides a viable alternative to the potentially high impact personal site visit. Rather than a BC Parks Ecological Reserve being a secret resource this approach encourages public education and appreciation of the area while maintaining a high level of protection.Pearson College has a proven record of successful fundraising for the Race Rocks project. Since 1997 over $280,000 has been raised from private donors to operate Race Rocks. This was an emergency initiative to save the site from demolition while a long-term solution could be found. Pearson College will continue this commitment to fundraising for the project by raising one third of the annual operating costs for the ongoing operation of Race Rocks.

Community Commitment

BC Environment Minister The Hon. Joan Sawicki and Federal Fisheries Minister The Hon. Herb Dhaliwal committed their respective governments to the establishment of a Marine Protected Area at Race Rocks on September 14, 2000. Their action was based on the unanimous recommendations of the Race Rocks Advisory Board. The Advisory Board includes senior staff from BC Parks, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and south island First Nations leadership. In addition there is broad public representation from groups such as sports fishers, the dive community, ecotourism companies, marina operators, scientists, Friends of Ecological Reserves, Georgia Strait Alliance, and the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society. A key feature of the Race Rocks Advisory Board conclusions is a recommendation that both the Federal and Provincial governments provide financial support for the Race Rocks Marine Protected Area.

So many Parks so little money

British Columbia leads Canada in the establishment of parks and protected areas. The fact BC is the first jurisdiction in Canada to attain the 12% of total landmass under protection goal is an extraordinary accomplishment that places British Columbia as a world leader. In only the past nine years the NDP government has doubled total park space to 11.7 million hectares to meet itâs declared objective. One might think the Ministry budget would also have been increased to provide financial support for this initiative. The Ministry budget has in fact decreased.

The financial reality of the Ministry of the Environment, Lands and Parks budget situation makes it extremely difficult for BC Parks managers to fulfill the operational challenges of administering this burgeoning parks system. One solution to the budget crisis as identified by the BC Parks Legacy Panel in their 2000 report is partnership funding arrangements with the private charitable giving sector. This is exactly what we propose for Race Rocks. Under the formula presented here BC Parks will contribute only one third of the annual operating cost of Race Rocks. For every dollar expended by BC Parks two additional dollars will be contributed to operate this BC Parks facility.

Why is Race Rocks funding special?

Race Rocks is a unique Provincial asset with specific circumstances that qualify it to be deserving of a special funding allocation designated at the Ministerial level.

So many Parks so little money

Why is Race Rocks funding special?

Race Rocks is a unique Provincial asset with specific circumstances that qualify it to be deserving of a special funding allocation designated at the Ministerial level.

Race Rocks is:

an internationally recognized Marine Protected Area established jointly by the Province and the Federal government.
Canadaâs first and only Marine Protected Area and therefore success is essential if others are to follow.
the only Ecological Reserve in BC with over $650,000 in physical building and equipment assets owned by the Province which clearly require security and routine maintenance.
over $25 million worth of extremely marketable sea-life that has prospered under 20 years of protection would be subject to immediate poaching without the presence of the resident eco-guardians.
Race Rocks has the most comprehensive accumulation of scientific data of any marine Ecological Reserve. The continuous data chain some of which dates back to 1926 must be sustained.
Race Rocks, through award winning web based education programming, is recognized as a word leader in environmental monitoring and education delivery.
partnerships with Provincial agencies such as the Open Learning Agency, Royal BC Museum, and Ministry of Education provide direct benefit to the BC Government and British Columbians.
the funding formula proposed is in accordance with recommendations of both the Race Rocks Advisory Board and the BC Parks Legacy Panel.
BC Parks investment in Race Rocks will be directly matched at a two to one ratio by other independent funding sources.
when gift in kind contributions from our other sponsors are considered the ratio of private contribution is over ten times the BC Parks contribution level.
the involvement of BC Parks assures the project of stable funding. The lack of involvement by BC Parks will lead to immediate financial collapse.

Financial Proposal

The following operational budget provides details of projected minimum operational expenses at Race Rocks for the period April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2002. The budget is based on our four years of experience in funding the Race Rocks project and the highly efficient operational format we have established. Pearson College guarantees to cover any cost over runs if they should occur.

It is proposed that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, BC Parks, and Pearson College each contribute $50,000 to cover the 2001-2002 operating budget.

Race Rocks MPA/ER
Operating Budget April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2002


Salaries
Eco-guardian(s)	42,000
Educator (1/2 time)	30,000
Shoreside support (1/3 time)	14,000
Benefits	9,460
	95,460

Fuel
Generator	11,000
Heating	1,400
Boat	1,750
Lube/oils	2,000
	16,150

Maintenance
Buildings	6,000
Generators	4,300
Water pumps	2,100
Desalinator	2,200
Winches	800
Boat and motor	4,700
Jetty	400
Fuel system	450
Radios	200
Diving equipment	2,500
	23,650

Administration Costs
Phone	600
Insurance	1,800
Stationery/printing	1,150
	3,550
Education Program
Classroom materials	4,500
Communication/outreach programs	2,500
First Nations’ program	5,000
Internet access	2,000
	14,000

Total expenditures	$152,810

Pearson College is a registered charity and as such is subject to an annual audit. Our auditors KPMG will provide fully audited accounting details of all Race Rocks expenditures to the partner agencies. In addition the College will file an annual operating report with BC Parks.

Conclusion

We had not expected to operate the facility on an interim basis without any financial support from any government for the past four years. Our donors are experiencing fatigue and our largest private financial supporter has indicated their continued support is conditional upon governments entering into this cost sharing formula. A similar proposal has been well received by the Federal Government. Race Rocks is an essential investment by BC Parks, a cost effective arrangement, a unique innovation in the field of environmental protection and education and a proud accomplishment for all British Columbians. We ask that you agree to support Race Rocks Ecological Reserve as it begins a new life.

Respectfully submitted,

Angus Matthews
Director of Special Projects
Lester B. Pearson College of the Pacific
650 Pearson College Drive
Victoria, BC

Operational Proposal for Race Rocks Ecological reserve and MPA

Posted on Thursday,February 15, 2001 by Garry Fletcher

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area
OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002

Presented to:
Department of Fisheries and Oceans
Attention: Dick Carson,
Director, Pacific Region
February 15, 2001

The Department of Fisheries and Oceans has recently recognized the ecological value of this treasured eco-system by selecting Race Rocks as one of the first Pilot Marine Protected Areas under the Oceans Act. Since 1980 when the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve was established, marine life on the rocky outcrops and the ocean floor extending to a depth of 20 fathoms has been protected by the Province of British Columbia. Great Race Island is home to the Race Rocks light station. Since 1980 the light- keepers have been of great assistance in protecting the Ecological Reserve by keeping a watchful eye.

A New Beginning
The Federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans began community consultations in 1998 to assess the possibility of Race Rocks being recognized as Canada’s first Marine Protected Area. For the first time, Race Rocks, with the cooperation of both levels of government would be truly protected with a management plan that included both the Provincially managed Ecological Reserve and the Federally controlled water column.

On September 14, 2000 the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, the Hon. Herb Dhaliwal, announced he had accepted the recommendations of the Race Rocks Advisory Board and DFO staff and Race Rocks would become Canada’s first Marine Protected Area.

Background

An extensive management plan for the Race Rocks area is now being developed by DFO staff working in close consultation with BC Parks and representatives of the South Island First Nations. At the invitation of the MPA strategy, extensive community involvement has led to broad consultation and local support for the MPA initiative.

For the first time, the Race Rocks eco-system will enjoy full protection under a unified management plan with the authority of both the Federal and Provincial governments. An important new provision has also been made for the full involvement of First Nations in on-going management of the area. The vital priorities of protecting ecological values, education and research are the primary focus of the new plan now being developed.

Scope of the Race Rocks Project

For the past four years, on a temporary basis to assure interim protection at Race Rocks, Pearson College staff and students have undertaken the following responsibilities:

Protection

Continuous supervision of the island and Reserve by resident eco-guardian.
Security for buildings, equipment and infrastructure (24 hrs/day all year).
Vigilant observation of activities within the Reserve and if needed, reporting of infractions to appropriate agencies.
Electronic video monitoring of the Reserve area by enforcement agencies.
Restrict access to specific areas as necessary.

Safety

Observe and report any situations which may represent a safety hazard.
Assist individuals in distress when required and liaise with rescue agencies.
Assist in emergency communications.
Be vigilant for fire hazards.
Monitor for the occurrence of hazardous material spills.

Science

Continue monitoring program for weather conditions.
Continue monitoring program for seawater temperature and salinity.
Ongoing protection of unique Northern Abalone populations and monitoring of population and growth rates.
Annual intertidal and subtidal transect site monitoring.
Installation of environmental scan sensor arrays for air, soil and seawater with full accessibility on the Internet.
Observation and recording of marine mammal and bird populations.
Daily ecological events log.
Support for visiting scientists.
Development of alternative energy solutions.

Education

Development of curriculum materials for K-12 use.
Cooperative development of information about First Nations focusing on the history of traditional uses and creating a supporting curriculum.
Operation and continuous upgrading of the racerocks.com education site with a major commitment for the production of online archived video for classroom and public use.
Interactive web cast production and delivery for use by schools, science centres, museums and conferences.
Public education programs for visitors to the Race Rocks area.
Education programs in cooperation with eco-tourism industry and dive community.

Eco-guardian / Project Management BC Parks, which now owns Great Race Island is issuing a long term Parks Permit to Pearson College staff to operate the site and serve as eco-guardians.

Located 3.7 nautical miles from Pearson College’s docks at Pedder Bay, Race Rocks is within easy reach in moderate weather conditions. In addition to the Race Rocks station boat, Pearson College operates two purpose built aluminum workboats suitable for transporting fuel, personnel, equipment and supplies to Race Rocks.

Pearson College staff provides all logistical support required for the efficient operation of Race Rocks. Qualified staffing for maintenance, accounting, purchasing and deliveries are all coordinated by existing College systems. Mike and Carol Slater, the former light-house keepers, are now employed by Pearson College and they live at Race Rocks. They are particularly well qualified to supervise and operate the facility after 30 years of experience with the Coast Guard and extensive experience observing marine life. Over the past 14 years they have been responsible for dealing with the public in the Reserve area and, when necessary, reporting infractions to the appropriate agency. Many of the College’s suppliers such as Nixon Electrical Services, Day’s Welding, Aramark Services, Henning’s Plumbing and others offer their services to Race Rocks at reduced rates or by donation.
It is an extraordinary legacy of the Millennium Partnership Fund and our partners that Race Rocks is the most technologically advanced Marine Protected Area in the world. The state of the art information technology system includes a full island network, wireless technology, remote controlled live video streams from above and below water and an environmental data array all streamed live on the Internet for public use. Major sponsorships from Apple, Apple Learning, LGS Group, Sorenson, Sony, Telus, Yamaha, Seapoint Sensors, the Vancouver Aquarium and others support the Race Rocks project.

As an educational institution Pearson College applies significant educational resources to the Race Rocks project. Environmental Systems/Biology faculty member Garry Fletcher serves as Educational Director of the Race Rocks program. Supported by students involved in web design, scuba diving, vessel operation, photography, video production, research and school program delivery, Garry has established an award winning education program at Race Rocks. This program is widely used by educational institutions such as the Open Learning Agency, primary and secondary schools, universities, museums and science centres throughout Canada. In the past year alone there have been over 65,000 visitors directly to the racerocks.com site and thousands more through links to the Apple Learning Exchange site.

This project has proved conclusively that there can be mass electronic public access to a protected area without the negative impact of large numbers of visitors to the islands. Race Rocks provides a viable alternative to the potentially high impact personal site visit. Rather than a Marine Protected Area being a secret resource this approach encourages public education and appreciation of the area while maintaining a high level of protection.

Pearson College has a proven record of successful fundraising for the Race Rocks project. Since 1997 over $280,000 has been raised from private donors to operate Race Rocks. This was an emergency initiative to save the site from demolition while a long-term solution could be found. Pearson College will continue this commitment to fundraising for the project by raising one third of the annual operating costs for the ongoing operation of Race Rocks.

Community Commitment

Federal Fisheries Minister The Hon. Herb Dhaliwal and BC Environment, Lands and Parks Minister The Hon. Joan Sawicki committed their respective governments to the establishment of a Marine Protected Area at Race Rocks on September 14, 2000. Their action was based on the unanimous recommendations of the Race Rocks Advisory Board. The Advisory Board includes senior staff from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, BC Parks and South Island First Nations leadership. In addition there is broad public representation from groups such as sports fishers, the dive community, ecotourism companies, marina operators, scientists, Friends of Ecological Reserves, Georgia Strait Alliance, and the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society. A key feature of the Race Rocks Advisory Board conclusions is a recommendation that both the Federal and Provincial governments provide financial support for the Race Rocks Marine Protected Area.

Meeting DFO Needs at Race Rocks

Race Rocks represents a unique challenge for DFO if it is to meet the declared objectives of protection, sustainability, education, research and broad community collaboration as defined in the MPA strategy. As the lead agency in the establishment of Canada’s first MPA, the Department must meet these objectives in a coordinated, cost effective manner. Pearson College, through a contract with DFO, can deliver programs under the direction of DFO that meet the defined objectives and fulfill specific DFO areas of responsibility.

The following key DFO objectives would be fulfilled under this contract:

- 24 hour on site staffing throughout the year
- monitoring of visitors to the MPA to ensure use guidelines are respected
- data collection on the daily number of vessels and visitors within the MPA
- reporting and recording of any infractions that may occur
- vigilant reporting of any evidence of toxic contaminants
- periodic marine mammal and sea bird population counts
- ongoing intertidal and subtidal marine life inventories
- underwater data collection through environmental scan sensors
- maintaining a daily environmental journal
- support for visiting researchers
- maintaining a directory of all research data and publications
- continuation of seawater and salinity measurements for IOS
- continuation of weather reporting for Environment Canada
- assistance to Coast Guard staff when required
- development of web based educational curriculum materials
- extensive educational programming for educational institutions and the general public utilizing the Internet as much as possible
- education programs for reserve users and liaison with commercial users
- development of specific First Nations curriculum featuring the history of traditional uses in cooperation with local band leadership
- education programs for First Nations youth including material in their own languages
- showcasing the value of MPAâs with custom live web casts for DFO events and conferences
- assisting in maintaining and enhancing vital community relationships
- ongoing involvement in the Race Rocks Advisory Board

Why is the need for Race Rocks funding special?

Race Rocks is a unique Provincial asset with specific circumstances that qualify it to be deserving of a special funding allocation designated at the Ministerial level.
Race Rocks is:

an internationally recognized Marine Protected Area established jointly by the Federal and Provincial Governments.
Canadaâs first and only Marine Protected Area and therefore success is essential if others are to follow.
the Race Rocks Marine Education Centre has over $650,000 in physical building and equipment assets which clearly require security and routine maintenance.
over $25 million worth of extremely marketable sea-life that has prospered under 20 years of protection would be subject to immediate poaching without the presence of the resident eco-guardians.
Race Rocks has the most comprehensive accumulation of scientific data of any protected site on the West Coast. The continuous data chain, some of which dates back to 1926 must be sustained.
Race Rocks, through award winning web based education programming, is recognized as a word leader in environmental monitoring and education delivery.
partnerships with educational institutions such as schools, museums, science centres, and Ministries of Education provide direct benefit to Canadians.
the funding formula proposed is in accordance with recommendations of the Race Rocks Advisory Board and the intent of the MPA strategy.
DFO investment in Race Rocks will be directly matched at a two to one ratio by other independent funding sources.
when gift in kind contributions from our other sponsors are considered the ratio of private contribution is over ten times the DFO contribution level.
the involvement of DFO assures the project of stable funding. The lack of involvement by DFO will lead to immediate financial collapse.

Financial Proposal

It is proposed that the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, BC Parks, and Pearson College each contribute $50,000 to cover the 2001-2002 operating budget.

Race Rocks MPA/ER
Operating Budget April 1, 2001 to March 31, 2002


Salaries
Eco-guardian(s)	42,000
Educator (1/2 time)	30,000
Shoreside support (1/3 time)	14,000
Benefits	9,460
	95,460

Fuel
Generator	11,000
Heating	1,400
Boat	1,750
Lube/oils	2,000
	16,150

Maintenance
Buildings	6,000
Generators	4,300
Water pumps	2,100
Desalinator	2,200
Winches	800
Boat and motor	4,700
Jetty	400
Fuel system	450
Radios	200
Diving equipment	2,500
	23,650

Administration Costs
Phone	600
Insurance	1,800
Stationery/printing	1,150
	3,550
Education Program
Classroom materials	4,500
Communication/outreach programs	2,500
First Nations’ program	5,000
Internet access	2,000
	14,000

Total expenditures	$152,810

Conclusion

We had not expected to operate the facility on an interim basis without any financial support from any government for the past four years. Our donors are experiencing fatigue and our largest private financial supporter has indicated their continued support is conditional upon governments entering into this cost sharing formula. A similar proposal has been forwarded to the Provincial Government. Race Rocks is an essential investment by DFO, a cost effective arrangement, a unique innovation in the field of environmental protection and education and a proud accomplishment for all Canadians. We ask that you agree to support the Race Rocks Marine Protected Area as it begins a new life.

Respectfully submitted,

Angus Matthews
Director of Special Projects
Lester B. Pearson College of the Pacific
650 Pearson College Drive
Victoria, BC

Generator replacement by helicopter

Posted on Sunday,October 15, 2000 by Garry Fletcher

For maintenance purposes, the Canadian Coast Guard is replacing one of the generators necessary to power Race Rocks. This piece of equipment is a 25kW Diesel generator located in the engine room situated in the southern part of the island. Hopefully, in the next decade, we will be able to switch to renewable energy to move a step further toward our goal of sustainability for the islands and protection of the environment.

This video was made by Ryan Murphy and Paulina Ponce de Leon in October of 2000.

CANADA GAZETTE.. Xwayen ( Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area

Posted on Tuesday,October 10, 2000 by Garry Fletcher

Copy of Gazetting

Vol. 134, No. 44
Canada Gazette
Part I
OTTAWA, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2000

Vol. 134, n o 44
Gazette du Canada
Partie I
OTTAWA, LE SAMEDI 28 OCTOBRE 2000

page 3364

3364

XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area
Regulations
Statutory Authority
Oceans Act
Sponsoring Department
Department of Fisheries and OceansREGULATORY IMPACT
ANALYSIS STATEMENT
DescriptionThe Oceans Act (the Act) came into force on January 31, 1997. Part II of the Act authorizes the establishment of an Oceans Man-agement Strategy (OMS) based on the principles of sustainable development, integrated management and the precautionary ap-proach. This part of the Act also provides authority for the devel-opment of tools necessary to carry out the OMS, tools such as the establishment of Marine Protected Areas. Section 35 of the Act authorizes the Governor in Council to designate, by regulation, Marine Protected Areas for any of
the following reasons: (a) the conservation and protection of commercial and non-commercial fishery resources, including marine mammals and their habitats;
(b) the conservation and protection of endangered or threatened species and their habitats;
(c) the conservation and protection of unique habitats;
(d) the conservation and protection of marine areas of high biodiversity or biological productivity; and
(e) the conservation and protection of any other marine re-source or habitat as is necessary to fulfill the mandate of the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.

In 1998, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans announced four pilot Marine Protected Area initiatives on Canada’s Pacific Coast. One of these, Race Rocks in British Columbia, meets the criteria set out in paragraphs 35(1)(b), (d)and(e) above. This regulatory initiative proposes to formally designate, under the Oceans Act, the waters surrounding Race Rocks as XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area (MPA). In addition, the harvesting of liv-ing marine resources within the MPA will be prohibited subject to existing aboriginal or treaty rights. XwaYeN (pronounced shwai’yen) is located in the Juan de Fuca Strait, 17 kilometres off the coast of Vancouver Island,southwest of Victoria. The islets of XwaYeN (Race Rocks) form the most southerly part of Canada’s Pacific Coast. Named for its strong tidal currents and rocky reefs, the waters surrounding XwaYeN (Race Rocks) are a showcase for Pacific marine life, featuring whales, sea lions, seals, birds and a wide variety of underwater plants and animals. These waters are home to a thriving community of sub-tidal invertebrates, includ-ing sponges, anemones, hydroids and soft corals. Crowds of barnacles, tunicates, urchins and sea stars adorn the underwater cliffs. Fish such as sculpin, rockfish and lingcod seek refuge in the rocky crevices and undulating kelp forests.
The area’s high velocity tidal currents — up to seven knots — in combination with the climate and the temperature and salinity of the water in the area supplies a generous stream of nutrients and promotes high levels of dissolved oxygen. These factors con-tribute to the creation of an ecosystem of high biodiversity and biological productivity.
The waters surrounding XwaYeN (Race Rocks) are an impor-tant nursery and recruitment area for Northern abalone. In 1999, Northern abalone (Halliotis kamischatkana)wasdesignated as a threatened marine species by the Committee on the Status of En-dangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC). Protecting this nursery and recruitment area will aid the nurturing of this species. Fur-thermore, efforts to conserve and protect the biodiversity and biological productivity of the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) marine ecosystem will also enhance the protection of this threatened species.
To provide long-term and comprehensive protection of the di-verse
species and to maintain the biological productivity of the
ecosystem, a prohibition of the harvesting of all living marine
resources in the waters surrounding XwaYeN (Race Rocks) is
being proposed. Although seasonal fisheries closures under the Fisheries Act have restricted all commercial fishing of finfish and shellfish in the area since 1990, recreational harvesting of salmon and halibut and harvesting of non-commercial species continues.
The prohibition of living marine resource harvesting under the Oceans Act will provide a longer-term commitment to the conser-vation and protection of the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) ecosystem. In 1980, the province of British Columbia, under the authority of the provincial Ecological Reserves Act, established the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, which provides for the protection of the terrestrial natural and cultural heritage values (nine islets) and of the ocean seabed (to the 20 fathoms contour line). Ocean dumping, dredging and the extraction of non-renewable resources are not permitted within the boundaries of the Ecological Reserve.
However, the Ecological Reserve cannot provide for the con servation and protection of the water column or for the living resources inhabiting the coastal waters surrounding XwaYeN (Race Rocks). The federal government is using its authority to complement the protection afforded by the Ecological Reserve by prohibiting the harvesting of living marine resources. Adopting an integrated management approach within the Race Rocks area will provide for a more comprehensive level of con-servation and protection for the ecosystem than can be achieved by either an MPA or an Ecological Reserve on its own. Desig-nating a Marine Protected Area within the area corresponding to the Ecological Reserve will facilitate the integration and increase the synergy of conservation, protection and management initia-tives under the respective authorities of the two governments.
The Oceans Act mandates the Minister to lead and facilitate the
development and implementation of plans for the integrated man-agement of all activities with other ministers and agencies of the Government of Canada, with provincial governments and with affected Aboriginal organizations and coastal communities for the purposes of conservation and protection of Canada’s oceans.

This proposal to designate the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) area as a Marine Protected Area under the Oceans Act provides the neces-sary foundation for the Minister to lead and facilitate the devel-opmentof an integrated, cooperative ecosystem-based manage-ment regime utilizing:
(a)acooperative, integrated management approach involving several federal and provincial government agencies using their
respective authorities to conserve and protect the area;
(b) compliance based on best practices, stewardship and vol-untary guidelines; and
(c) assessment of effectiveness of the voluntary initiatives and further restriction as warranted. Integrating the management of the terrestrial and marine com-ponents of the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) ecosystem will facilitate coordinated, effective and efficient management of the area. This cooperative management regime is the preferred approach to the conservation and protection of XwaYeN (Race Rocks) as deter mined through the consultation process. Candidate activities for cooperative management include marine mammal watching, guided diving, research and education, ballast water management, National Defence and Transport Canada programs in the area.
The designation of the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) as an MPA and the prohibition of harvesting of living marine resources are an important and necessary element in the overall conservation and protection of an ecosystem which is biologically diverse and highly productive.
Alternatives The status quo was considered unacceptable because even though the area is currently afforded some protection under the Fisheries Act, an MPA designated by regulation under the Oceans Act provides an opportunity to use integrated management tools for conserving and protecting the biodiversity and biological pro-ductivity of the area and the threatened Northern abalone.
The proposed option is the designation of the XwaYeN (Race
Rocks) MPA by regulation with a prohibition on the harvesting of all living marine resources. This option will provide the primary element required to manage the MPA while allowing the Minister to lead and facilitate the development of an integrated manage-ment approach to comprehensive ecosystem management of the area.
This alternative to comprehensive regulation conforms to Regulatory Policy by limiting regulatory burden on Canadians. However, should it become necessary, control of activities in the area by regulation would be considered.

Benefits and Costs The primary benefit of the proposed Regulations establishing the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area is that the foundation will be set for ensuring the conservation and protec-tion of a highly diverse and productive ecosystem of Canada’s oceans. It will aid in the prevention of potential ecological dete-rioration and protect the Northern abalone in that area. A subsidiary benefit of designating the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) MPA is the opportunity to initiate an integrated management regime based on a cooperative, integrated, ecosystem-based management approach to conserve and protect the area involving several federal and provincial government agencies using their respective authorities; and voluntary compliance through stewardship and cooperation with an alliance of stakeholder groups. The establishment of this MPA will also demonstrate Canada’s resolve to fulfill its commitments under the United NationsConference on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Convention on Biological Diversity (UNEP 1994), as well as Canada’s commit-ment to the IUCN World Commission on Protected Areas Program.
The costs related to the administration and management of he MPA will be managed within existing budgetary allotments. Consultation Since its announcement in 1998, the pilot Marine Protected Area process has identified and galvanized strong local support for designation of XwaYeN (Race Rocks) as an MPA. The con-sultative process has developed new trust-based relationships and the regulatory designation of the MPA will maintain the level of momentum and stakeholder confidence that have now beenestablished. To facilitate the consultative process, the Race Rocks Advisory
Board was established with representation from:
— the Department of National Defence
— Parks Canada
— Fisheries and Oceans Canada
— the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks of British
Columbia
— the Lester B. Pearson College of the Pacific
— Aboriginal groups through the Coast Salish Sea Council
— the Scientific community
— the Friends of Ecological Reserves
— the Dive community
— the Georgia Strait Alliance
— the Sport Fish Advisory Board — Victoria, representing the
recreational fishing community
— local marina operators
— the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society
— The Northwest Whale Watchers Association
The role of the Race Rocks Advisory Board role was to:
— represent key constituent groups or stakeholders;
— provide advice to Fisheries and Oceans Canada and British
Columbia Parks on the consultation process;
— collate and analyze feedback from consultations;
— make consensus-based, recommendations to Fisheries and
Oceans Canada and British Columbia Parks for the establish-ment
of a Marine Protected Area in the waters surrounding XwaYen (Race Rocks); and
— ensure community involvement in the establishment and on-going management of XwaYen (Race Rocks) MPA.

Four Coast Salish First Nations, Beecher Bay, T’souke, Song-hees
and Esquimalt Nations, claim the eastern end of the Strait of Juan de Fuca as part of their traditional territory. Although the creation of the MPA does not restrict harvesting by First Nations for food, social or ceremonial purposes, they volunteered to forego this activity in support of the designation of the MPA.

The Race Rocks Advisory Board provided an excellentforum for issue identification, discussion and resolution. It has func-tioned well and guided the development of the proposed coopera-tive management regime. The resulting commitment to steward-ship and cooperation in the protection of this area as an MPA has laid the groundwork for a management regime through voluntary compliance that is unprecedented. In discussing and developing recommendations for designation and management of the Race Rocks Marine Protected Area, all members of the Race Rocks Advisory Board and their constitu-ents clearly understood that, upon designation, the area would be closed to harvesting (commercial and recreational) of all living marine resources. It was also accepted that this would not prevent the removal of marine organisms for scientific or educational purposes as part of an ongoing research program to assess and monitor the long-term health of the XwaYen (Race Rocks) ma-rine ecosystem.
The most direct impact of this prohibition is on the recreational fishing community who have endorsed the implementation of a “no-take” zone within the boundaries of the proposed Marine Protected Area. There will be no impact on the commercial fish-ing sector as the area has been closed to commercial fishing since 1990 and there is no expectation on the part of the commercial sector that the area will be re-opened in the future. Aboriginal groups have indicated their support to the Race Rocks Advisory Board for the creation of the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area by voluntarily choosing not to fish in the area.

The recommendations reflect the outcome of a consensus-based process by the Race Rocks Advisory Board and directions expressed by the public, stakeholders and other partners through consultations conducted over a two-year period. In addition to sectoral consultations with stakeholders, two public sessions were conducted in February 2000. The public consultations were held to provide opportunities for information and discussion with those persons not represented by particular
interest groups. With an attendance of 101 persons, the consulta-tions provided useful fora for the discussion of both the MPA and Ecological Reserve aspects of the initiative. Results of these dis-cussions indicated a high level of support for establishment of a Marine Protected Area at Race Rocks to complement the area’s Ecological Reserve status. Media coverage since the initial announcement of the pilot ini-tiative XwaYeN (Race Rocks) has been regular, positive and resulted in continued public discussion and interest. Ranging from local newspapers to the Knowledge Network and the Discovery Channel, the coverage has highlighted the ecological values of the proposed MPA and public support for it. Compliance and Enforcement Principal stakeholder groups haveexpressed a keen interest in not only developing “best practices” but also working towards ensuring a high degree of compliance. The development of stew-ardship initiatives and “best practices” guidelines has already commenced.
The unanimous support for the creation of a Marine Protected Area in the waters surrounding XwaYeN (Race Rocks) suggests that enforcement interventions will rarely be required. XwaYeN (Race Rocks) has resident guardians and an Internet-based series of live video cameras strategically placed in the area. These provide the foundation for a strong community-based compliance environment. Therefore, management will be achieved through voluntary compliance/best practices guidelines for a number of activities, such as recreational boating, eco-tourism activities, including marine mammal viewing, and diving activity. Monitoring and assessment of the effectiveness of these guidelines will take place over a two-year period. Depending on the results, activity regula-tions can then be considered if necessary,

Contacts: Camille Mageau, Director, Marine Ecosystem Conservation, Department of Fisheries and Oceans, 200 Kent Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0E6,

(613) 991-1285 (Telephone), (613) 998-3329
(Facsimile), mageauc@dfo-mpo.gc.ca (Electronic mail), or Mary

Ann Green, Director, Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, De-partment of Fisheries and Oceans, 200 Kent Street, Ottawa, On-tario K1A 0E6, (613) 990-0162 (Telephone), (613) 990-0120
(Facsimile), greenma@dfo-mpo.gc.ca (Electronic mail).

PROPOSED REGULATORY TEXT

Notice is hereby given that the Governor in Council, pursuant to subsection 35(3) of the Oceans Act a ,proposes to make the annexed XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area Regulations. Interested persons may make representations with respect to the proposed Regulations within 30 days after the date of publi-cation of this notice. All such representations must cite the Canada Gazette,Part I,andthedate ofpublication of this notice, and be addressed to

Camille Mageau, Director, Marine Ecosystem
Conservation, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 200 Kent Street,
Ottawa, ON, K1A 0E6. Telephone: (613) 991-1285; FAX: (613)
998-3329, E-mail: mageauc@dfo-mpo.gc.ca.
Ottawa, October 19, 2000

MARC O’SULLIVAN
Assistant Clerk of the Privy Council

XwaYeN (RACE ROCKS) MARINE PROTECTED
AREA REGULATIONS

DESIGNATION

1. The area within the 20-fathom (36.58 metre) contour line as shown on the chart set out in the schedule is hereby designated as the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area.

PROHIBITION

2. (1) The definitions in this subsection apply in this section. “fish” has the same meaning as in section 2 of the Fisheries Act.(poisson) “fish habitat” has the same meaning as in subsection 34(1) of the Fisheries Act.(habitat du poisson)
— a S.C. 1996, c. 31—

(2) No person shall remove from XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Ma-rine
Protected Area any
(a)fish;
(b) part of the fish habitat; or
(c) living marine organism that forms part of the ecosystem of
fish.
(3) Subsection (2) does not apply to removal for scientific re-search for the protection and understanding of the XwaYeN (Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area.
COMING INTO FORCE 3.

These Regulations come into force on the day on which they
are registered.

Règlement sur la zone de protection marine XwaYeN
(Race Rocks)
Fondement législatif
Loi sur les océans
Ministère responsable
Ministère des Pêches et des Océans
RÉSUMÉ DE L’ÉTUDE D’IMPACT
DE LA RÉGLEMENTATION
DescriptionLa Loi sur les océans (la Loi) est entrée en vigueur le 31 jan-vier 1997. La partie II de la Loi permetl’établissement d’unestratégie de gestion des océans (SGO) basée sur les principes dudéveloppement durable, de la gestion intégrée et de la prévention.Cette partie de la Loi prévoit aussi l’élaboration d’outils nécessai-resà la SGO, notamment l’établissement de zones de protection marine.
L’article 35 de la Loi autorise le gouverneur en conseil à dé-signer,en vertu de la réglementation, des zones de protection marines pour l’une ou plusieurs des raisons suivantes :

a) la conservation et la protection des ressources halieutique commerciales ou autres, y compris les mammifères marins, et de leur habitat;
(b) la conservation et la protection des espèces en voie de dis-paritionet des espèces menacées et de leur habitat;
c) la conservation et la protection d’habitats uniques;
d) la conservation et la protection des espaces marins riches en biodiversité ou en productivité biologique;
e) la conservation et la protection d’autres ressources ou habitats marins, au besoin, pour la réalisation du mandat du ministre des Pêches et des Océans.
En 1998, le ministre des Pêches et des Océans a annoncé la création de quatre projets pilotes concernant des zones de protec-tion marine sur la Côte du Pacifique canadienne. L’une d’elles était la zone pilote de protection marine Race Rocks, qui satisfait aux exigences établies aux alinéas 35(1)b), d)ete) décrits ci-dessus.
Par le biais de cette initiative réglementaire, on propose de désigner formellement, en vertu de la Loi sur les océans, les eaux avoisinant le secteur de Race Rocks comme zone de protec-tion marine (ZPM) de XwaYeN. De plus, le prélèvement de res-sources
marines vivantes à l’intérieur de la zone sera défendu,
sauf si ce dernier est relatif à des traités ou droits autochtones.
XwaYeN (dont la prononciation est shwai’yen) est situé dans le détroit de Juan de Fuca, à 17 kilomètres de la côte de l’île de Vancouver, au sud-ouest de Victoria. Les îlots de XwaYeN (Race Rocks) forment la partie la plus méridionale de la Côte du Pacifi-que
canadienne.
XwaYeN (Race Rocks) doit son nom à ses courants de marée puissants et à ses récifs rocheux, et ses eaux avoisinantes abritent une riche vie marine : baleines, otaries, phoques, oiseaux et une grande diversité de plantes et d’animaux sous-marins. Les eau de XwaYeN (Race Rocks) accueillent une communauté foison-nante infralittorale d’invertébrés, notamment des éponges, des anémones de mer, des hydraires et des coraux mous. Des colonies
de cirripèdes, de tuniciers, d’oursins et d’étoiles de mer ornent les falaises sous-marines. Des poissons comme des chabots, des sé-bastes et des morues-lingues cherchent refuge dans les crevasses
rocheuses et les peuplements d’algues brunes ondulantes.
Les courants de marée à haute vitesse de la zone —jusqu’à sept noeuds — combinés au climat, à la température et à la salinité
de l’eau de la zone fournissent un apport généreux de nutriments et favorisent des niveaux d’oxygène dissous élevés. Ces facteurs contribuent à créer un écosystème dont la biodiversité et la pro-ductivité
sont importantes. Les eaux avoisinant XwaYeN (Race Rocks) constituent un secteur important pour la reproduction et le recrutement de l’or-meau
nordique. En 1999, l’ormeau nordique (Halliotis kamis-chatkana)
a été désigné espèce marine menacée par le Comité
sur le statut des espèces menacées de disparition au Canada
(CSEMDC). La protection de cette zone de reproduction et de
recrutement favorisera la conservation de l’espèce. De plus, les
efforts déployés pour conserver et protéger la biodiversité et la
productivité biologique des écosystèmes marins de XwaYeN
(Race Rocks) contribueront également à la protection de cette es-pèce
menacée.
Afin de fournir une protection complète et à long terme de ces
diverses espèces, et de maintenir la productivité biologique de
l’écosystème, on doit mettre un terme au prélèvement de toutes
les ressources marines vivantes dans les eaux avoisinant XwaYeN
(Race Rocks). Bien que les fermetures des pêches saisonnières en
vertu de la Loi sur les pêches aient restreint la pêche commerciale
des poissons et des mollusques et crustacés dans la zone depuis
1990, la pêche du saumon et du flétan à des fins récréatives et la
récolte d’espèces non commerciales se poursuit. L’interdiction de
prélever les ressources marines vivantes en vertu de la Loi sur les
océans correspondra à un engagement à long terme envers la con-servation
et la protection de l’écosystème de XwaYeN (Race
Rocks).
En 1980, la province de la Colombie-Britannique, en vertu de
l’Ecological Reserve Act, une loi provinciale, a institué la réserve
écologique de Race Rocks, qui assure la protection du patrimoine
naturel et culturel des neuf îlots terrestres et du fond océanique
(20 lignes de profondeur). Les rejets en mer, le dragage et l’ex-traction
des ressources non renouvelables sont interdits dans les
limites de la réserve écologique.
Toutefois, la réserve écologique actuelle n’assure pas la con-servation
et la protection de la colonne d’eau ou des ressources
vivantes des eaux côtières avoisinant XwaYeN (Race Rocks). Le
gouvernement fédéral exerce donc son autorité afin d’ajouter une
protection complémentaire à ce qu’offre déjà la réserve écologi-que
en interdisant le prélèvement des ressources marines vivantes.
L’adoption d’une approche de gestion intégréeau sein de la
zone de Race Rocks permettra de mieux conserver et protéger
l’écosystème qu’une seule zone de protection marine ou réserve
écologique. La désignation d’une zone de protection marine à
l’intérieur de la zone correspondant à la réserve écologique favo-risera
l’intégration et la synergie des initiatives de conservation,
de protection et de gestion en vertu des pouvoirs respectifs des
deux gouvernements.
La Loi sur les océans permet au ministre de guider et de facili-ter
l’élaboration et la mise en oeuvre de plans de gestion intégrée
de toutes les activités entreprises de concert avec les autres mi-nistères
et organismes fédéraux, les gouvernements provinciaux,
ainsi que les organisations autochtones et les collectivités côtières
concernées, en vue de la conservation et de la protection des
océans au Canada.

La proposition pour la désignation de XwaYeN (Race Rocks)
en tant que zone de protection marine en vertu de la Loi sur les
océans fournira le fondement nécessaire au ministre pour diriger
et favoriser la mise en oeuvre d’un régime de gestion intégrée et
coopératif fondé sur l’écosystème, et basé sur les éléments
suivants :
a) une approche de gestion intégrée et coopérative impliquant
plusieurs organismes fédéraux et provinciaux qui exercent leur
autorité respective pour conserver et protéger la zone;
b)le respect volontaire fondé sur les pratiques exemplaires,
l’intendance et les lignes directrices volontaires;
c) l’évaluation de l’efficacité des initiatives volontaires et
d’autres restrictions au besoin.
L’intégration de la gestion des composantes terrestres et mari-nes
de l’écosystème de XwaYeN (Race Rocks) contribuera à une
gestion coordonnée, efficiente et efficace de la zone. Ce régime
de gestion coopératif est l’approche privilégiée pour la conserva-tion
et la protection de XwaYeN (Race Rocks) tel qu’il a été éta-bli
par le processus de consultation. Les activités proposées pour
une gestion coopérative comprennent l’observation de mammi-fères
marins, la plongée guidée, la recherche et l’éducation, la
gestion des eaux de ballast et les programmes des ministères de
la Défense nationale et des Transports (niveau fédéral) dans le
secteur.
La désignation de XwaYeN (Race Rocks) comme ZPM et
l’interdiction de prélever les ressources marines vivantes repré-sentent
des éléments importants et nécessaires pour la conserva-tion
et la protection d’un écosystème très productif et riche en
biodiversité.
Solutions envisagées
Le statu quo était considéré inacceptable. En effet, même si la
zone est actuellement protégée d’une certaine façon en vertu de la
Loi sur les pêches,uneZPMdésignée par règlement en vertu de
la Loi sur les océans fournira l’occasion d’utiliser des outils de
gestion intégrée pour conserver et protéger la biodiversité et la
productivité biologique de la zone ainsi que l’ormeau nordique,
une espèce menacée.
La solution envisagée est la désignation de la ZPMde
XwaYeN (Race Rocks) par règlement, avec l’interdiction de pré-lever
toute ressource marine vivante. Cette solution apportera
l’élément clé requis pour gérer la ZPM tout en permettant au mi-nistre
de guider et de faciliter la création d’une approche de ges-tion
intégrée de l’écosystème dans son ensemble.
Cette solution proposée pour la réglementation est conforme à
la Politique de réglementation car elle réduit le fardeau régle-mentaire
des Canadiens. Cependant, si la situation l’exige, la so-lution
qui consiste à contrôler les activités par la réglementation
demeure possible.
Avantages et coûts
L’avantage principal du règlement proposé pour désigner
XwaYeN (Race Rocks) zone de protection marine est l’établis-sement
des fondements nécessaires pour veiller à la conservation
et à la protection d’un écosystème marin canadien fort productif
et riche en diversité. Ceci contribuera à prévenir la détérioration
écologique de la zone et à protéger l’ormeau nordique dans cette
zone.
Un avantage secondaire à la désignation de la ZPM de
XwaYeN (Race Rocks) est l’occasion d’instaurer un régime de
gestion intégrée qui sera fondé sur une approche de gestion éco-systémique,
coopérative et intégrée pour conserver et protéger
la zone, et qui impliquera plusieurs organismes fédéraux et

provinciaux aux pouvoirs distincts; de plus, la désignation favo-rise
la conformité volontaire au moyen d’activités d’intendance et
de coopération avec des groupes d’intervenants.
La création de cette ZPM démontrera aussi la volonté du Cana-da
à s’acquitter de ses engagements en vertu de la Conférence des
Nations Unies sur le droit de la mer (UNCLOS) et de la Conven-tion
sur la biodiversité (PNUE 1994), ainsi que ses responsabilités
dans le cadre du programme des aires protégées de l’Union mon-diale
pour la nature (IUCN).
Les sommes nécessaires à la gestionde la ZPMproviendront
des affectations budgétaires existantes.
Consultations
Depuis son annonce en 1998, le processusde la ZPMpilote a
recueilli et stimulé un appui local considérable pour la désigna-tion
de la ZPM de XwaYeN (Race Rocks). Le processus de con-sultation
a contribué à tisser des liens basés sur la confiance, et la
désignation réglementaire de la ZPM aidera à préserver l’élan et
la confiance des intervenants.
Le Conseil consultatif de Race Rocks a été créé afin de faciliter
le processus de consultation. Les représentants sont les suivants :
— le ministère de la Défense nationale
— Parcs Canada
— Pêches et Océans Canada
— le Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks de la
Colombie-Britannique
— le Collège du Pacifique Lester B. Pearson
— les groupes autochtones, par l’intermédiaire du Coast Salish
Sea Council
— la communauté scientifique
— les Friends of Ecological Reserves
— la communauté des plongeurs
— la Georgia Strait Alliance
— le Conseil consultatif de la pêche récréative — Victoria
(représentant la collectivité de la pêche récréative)
— les exploitants de marinas locales
— la Société pour la protection des parcs et des sites naturels
du Canada
— The Northwest Whale Watchers Association
Le Conseil consultatif de Race Rocks remplissait les fonctions
suivantes :
— représenter les groupes ou les intervenants clés;
— donner des avis à Pêches et Océans Canada et au ministère
des Parcs de la Colombie-Britannique sur le processus
consultatif;
— assembler et analyser les résultats du processus de
consultation;
— faire des recommandations consensuelles à Pêches et Océans
Canada et au ministère des Parcs de la Colombie-Britannique
sur l’établissement d’une zone de protection marine dans les
eaux avoisinant XwaYen (Race Rocks);
— veiller à la participation de la collectivité à l’établissement et à
la gestion continue de la ZPM de XwaYen (Race Rocks).
Quatre Premières nations Salish du littoral soit Beecher Bay,
T’souke, Songhees et Esquimalt revendiquent la partie est du
détroit de Juan de Fuca comme leur territoire traditionnel. Bien
qu’on ne prévoie pas limiter les activités des Premières nations en créant la ZPM, ces dernières ont offert, durant les consultations, de renoncer à leurs activités de pêche à des fins alimentaires et rituelles pour manifester leur appui à la désignation de la ZPM.

Le Conseil consultatif de Race Rocks représentait un excellent
forum pour la définition, la discussion et la résolution des pro-blèmes. Il a bien fonctionné et a guidé la mise sur pied du régime
de gestion coopératif proposé. L’engagement résultant en matière d’intendance et de coopération pour la protection de cette zone en tant que ZPM, a jeté les bases d’un régime de gestion par confor-mité volontaire sans précédent.
Au cours des discussions et de l’élaboration des recommanda-tions pour la désignation et la gestion de la Zone de protection
marine de Race Rocks, tous les membres du conseil consultatif et leurs commettants ont bien compris qu’avec la désignation, le
prélèvement de toute espèce marine vivante (commerciale et ré-créative) serait interdit. Ils ont aussi accepté que cette restriction
n’empêche pas le prélèvement d’organismes marins à des fins
scientifiques ou académiques dans le cadre d’un programme de
recherche continu pour évaluer et effectuer le suivi de la santé à
long terme de l’écosystème marin de XwaYen (Race Rocks).
L’impact le plus direct de cette interdiction porte sur la collec-tivité de pêche récréative, qui a accepté l’établissement de la zone sans prélèvement à l’intérieur des limites de la zone de protection marine proposée. Le secteur de pêche commerciale ne sera pas touché, car la zone est fermée à la pêche commerciale depuis 1990, et le secteur commercial ne s’attend pas à la réouverture de cette zone dans un avenir prochain. Les groupes autochtones ont manifesté au Conseil consultatif de Race Rocks leur appui envers lacréationde la zone deprotection marine de XwaYeN (Race Rocks) en optant volontairement pour ne pas exercer la pêche dans ce secteur.
Les recommandations traduisent le résultat du processus de
concertation mené par le Conseil consultatif de Race Rocks et les opinions exprimées par le public, les intervenants et les autres partenaires au moyen de consultations qui ont duré deux ans.
En plus des consultations sectorielles avec les intervenants,
deux séances publiques ont eu lieu en février 2000. Les consulta-tions
publiques ont été tenues afin de permettre aux personnes
non représentées par des groupes d’intérêt d’obtenir de l’in-formation
et de discuter sur ces questions. Les consultations, aux-quelles
ont participé 101 personnes, ont représenté un forum utile
pour la discussion sur divers aspects de la ZPM et de la réserve
écologique. Les résultats de ces discussions témoignent d’un ap-pui
considérable à la création d’une zone de protection marine à
Race Rocks comme complément au statut de réserve écologique.
Depuis l’annonce première de l’initiative pilote de XwaYeN
(Race Rocks), la couverture médiatique a été positive, continue et
a stimulé la discussion et l’intérêt de la part du public. Parmi les
médias qui ont traité du dossier, on comptait des journaux locaux
et des émissions de télévision éducatives (Knowledge Network et
Discovery Channel) qui ont souligné les avantages écologiques de
la ZPM proposée et l’appui du public.
Respect et exécution
Les principaux groupes d’intervenants ont manifesté un vif in-térêt,
non seulement envers l’élaboration de pratiques exemplai-res,
mais aussi envers l’atteinte d’un niveau élevé de conformité
aux exigences réglementaires. La mise sur pied d’initiatives
d’intendance et de lignes directrices visant des pratiques exem-plaires
a déjà commencé.
L’appui unanime à la création d’une zone de protection marine
dans les eaux avoisinant le secteur XwaYeN (Race Rocks) sug-gère
que des interventions coercitives seront rarement requises.
Le secteur de XwaYeN (Race Rocks) compte des gardiens ré-sidants
et abrite une série de caméras vidéo en ligne (liées à

Internet) disposées stratégiquement. Ces mesures contribuent à un
environnement local propice à la conformité.
Par conséquent, la gestion sera assurée au moyen de lignes di-rectrices
sur la conformité volontaire relative à un certain nombre
d’activités telles les bateaux plaisanciers, les activités liées à
l’écotourisme y compris l’observation de mammifères et la plon-gée.Le suivi et l’évaluation de l’efficacité de ces lignes directri-cesse feront sur une période de deux ans. Selon les résultats, des règlements relatifs aux activités seront alors considérés au besoin.
Personnes-ressources
Camille Mageau, Directrice, Conservation des écosystèmes
marins, Ministère des Pêches et des Océans, 200, rue Kent, Otta-wa
(Ontario) K1A 0E6, (613) 991-1285 (téléphone), (613) 998-
3329 (télécopieur), mageauc@dfo-mpo.gc.ca (courriel), ou Mary
Ann Green, Directrice, Affaires législatives et réglementaires,
Ministère des Pêches et des Océans, 200, rue Kent, Ottawa (Onta-rio)
K1A 0E6, (613) 990-0162 (téléphone), (613) 990-0120 (télé-copieur), greenma@dfo-mpo.gc.ca (courriel).

PROJET DE RÉGLEMENTATION
Avis est donné que la gouverneure en conseil, en vertu du pa-ragraphe
35(3) de la Loi sur les océans a ,sepropose de prendre
le Règlement sur la zone de protection marine XwaYeN (Race
Rocks),ci-après. Les intéressés peuvent présenter leurs observations au sujet du projet de règlement dans les 30 jours suivant la date de publica-tion
du présent avis. Ils sont priés d’y citer la Gazette du Canada
Partie I ainsi que la date de publication, et d’envoyer le tout à

Camille Mageau, Directrice, Conservation des écosystèmes ma-rins,
Ministère des Pêches et Océans, 200, rue Kent, Ottawa (On-tario)
K1A 0E6. Téléphone : (613) 991-1285, Télécopieur : (613)
998-3329, Courriel : mageauc@dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Ottawa, le 19 octobre 2000

Le greffier adjoint du Conseil privé,
MARC O’SULLIVAN

RÈGLEMENT SUR LA ZONE DE PROTECTION
MARINE XwaYeN (RACE ROCKS)

DÉSIGNATION
1. L’espace situé à l’intérieur de la ligne de contour de 20 bras-
ses (36,58 m) dont le tracé figure sur la carte hydrographique en
annexe est désigné comme la zone de protection marine XwaYeN (Race Rocks).
INTERDICTION
2. (1) Les définitions qui suivent s’appliquent au présent
article.
« habitat du poisson » S’entend au sens du paragraphe 34(1) de
la Loi sur les pêches.(fish habitat)
« poisson » S’entend au sens de l’article 2 de la Loi sur les pê-
ches.(fish)
———
a L.C. 1996, ch. 31

(2) Il est interdit d’enlever de la zone de protection marine
XwaYeN (Race Rocks) :
a) tout poisson;
b) tout élément de l’habitat du poisson;
c) tout organisme marin vivant faisant partie de l’écosystème
du poisson.
(3) Le paragraphe (2) ne s’applique pas à l’enlèvement aux fins
de recherche scientifique visant la protection et la compréhension
de la zone de protection marine XwaYeN (Race Rocks).

ENTRÉE EN VIGUEUR
3. Le présent règlement entre en vigueurà la date de son
enregistrement.

The complete text of the CANADA GAZETTE from which this has been copied may be found in PDF form at : http://canada.gc.ca/gazette/part1/pdf/g1-13444.pdf pages 112-120.
INCLUDED on page 119 and 120 are the charts of the proposed MPA area with coordinates defined also a copy of the English version facsimile is attached below

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RRAB meeting Sept 25 2000

Posted on Monday,September 25, 2000 by Garry Fletcher

Date:                  September 25^th, 2009
Time:                  10:00am to 2:00pm
Location:           Canadian Coast Guard Station, 25 Huron Street, Victoria
Meeting Room: Administration Building, J. Wedge Board Room

Draft Agenda

Welcome and Introductions
Presentations about the project and the Race Rocks area
The MPA process and the role of the Public Advisory Board
Important features and uses of the Race Rocks area.
Next steps.

Hard Tuesday,September 29, 2026
Still with us Monday,September 28, 2026
Peckers! Sunday,September 27, 2026
September 26 Census Saturday,September 26, 2026
Boat ramp excitement Friday,September 25, 2026
Fence repair Thursday,September 24, 2026
A lot of new Wednesday,September 23, 2026
Mottled heads Tuesday,September 22, 2026
So much food! Monday,September 21, 2026
Go Home!!! Sunday,September 20, 2026

Race Rocks Ecological Reserve-

marine ecology educational resource, remote-control webcams,elephant seal colony,Sea lion haulout,sustainable energy, solar energy

Category Archives: Facility work

Race Rocks Ecological Overview: Wright and Pringle 2001

Race Rocks Marine Protected Area Update May 6 2001

Oil Tank Farm Restoration

First Nations Cooperative Management of Protected Areas in British Columbia, Tools and Foundation

Financial Proposal For Race Rocks Operation

Provincial Proposal for Race Rocks MPA Funding

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area
OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002

Operational Proposal for Race Rocks Ecological reserve and MPA

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area
OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002

Generator replacement by helicopter

CANADA GAZETTE.. Xwayen ( Race Rocks) Marine Protected Area

RRAB meeting Sept 25 2000

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area
OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002

Ecological Reserve and Marine Protected Area
OPERATIONAL PROPOSAL 2001/2002