BMSC has been supporting ocean access to coastal and marine environments
for research and education since 1972.
Situated in the town of Bamfield, within the traditional territory of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations in Barkley Sound, and adjacent the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, BMSC offers unparalleled access to a wide array of environments – including unique coastal, marine and rainforest habitats and exceptional species diversity.
Perched on the outer west coast of Vancouver Island, BMSC provides access to a remarkable diversity of marine, terrestrial, freshwater and cultural sites of the North East Pacific basin. With 3000 sq m of modern laboratory space it can support research in almost any field of study for all member and non-member users.
BMSC was established in 1972 by the Western Canadian Universities Marine Sciences Society (WCUMSS) in order to provide a permanent base for marine and coastal-oriented field operations on the west coast of Canada. WCUMSS is a not-for-profit, registered Canadian charity that is responsible for the oversight and governance of the BMSC.
WCUMSS has a mandate to:
- Provide world-class research infrastructure and support for Canadian and international researchers on the west coast of Canada;
- Offer undergraduate and graduate courses and programs;
- Offer training opportunities and in residence programs to schools, colleges, First Nations and other public groups.
