Research
Wilderness International is expanding its research network in Canada for scientific ecosystem analysis
Wilderness International collaborates with the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre and leading Canadian universities. The partnership focuses on the interactions between terrestrial and marine ecosystems, as well as the practical training of environmentalists.
What’s it all about?
Genuine field research to complement academic work
The 2025 expedition to Porcher Island served as a pilot project to evaluate the integration of early-career researchers into Wilderness International’s operational processes. Michael Zhang, a biology student at the University of Calgary, joined the team to apply his theoretical knowledge of the biological sciences in real-world field conditions, which are often not adequately covered in the university curriculum.
Dr Sean Rogers, Executive Director of the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, emphasises the importance of this collaboration:
Research-based experiential learning is at the heart of our work at the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre. It’s wonderful that Wilderness International Canada is working with our undergraduate students to enable them to undertake field research in areas such as Porcher Island, and I know that experiences like this have a lasting impact on our students.
It is extremely rare for students at this stage to get involved in fieldwork. Seeing how knowledge can be applied to make a real difference to the world was an eye-opener.
Zhang’s first field trip gave him the opportunity to gain key experiences that will equip the researchers and environmentalists of tomorrow:
- Logistical hard work: nature conservation involves not only data analysis, but also carrying heavy equipment across rough terrain and living together in a tent camp for weeks on end.
- Field methodology: Under the guidance of experts such as Chris Ketola (biodiversity) and Prof. Jürgen Kreyling (peatland research), he learnt how to use camera traps and acoustic sensors, and how to take soil samples using a peatland drill.
- eDNA & biodiversity: Michael helped set up Malaise traps for insects, the specimens from which are identified using eDNA analysis to create a genetic database of the local fauna. As well as compiling a species inventory, this method also enables new species to be discovered and recorded.
A starting point for further local research and educational work
Michael Zhang’s successful participation on Porcher Island marked the operational starting point of a long-term collaboration. This ‘trial run’ was essential for establishing joint communication channels, synchronising logistical arrangements between Wilderness International and the university network, and laying the foundations for mutual trust. Building on this positive assessment, Wilderness International is now significantly expanding its activities in British Columbia.
In close consultation with the university network and local partners, further projects are already being planned to firmly anchor the protection of coastal rainforests both scientifically and socially:
- Joint Land Management & First Nations Partnership: In cooperation with local First Nations, models for the joint management of university-owned forest land are being explored. The aim is to combine Indigenous knowledge of the land with science and to permanently remove the land from commercial use.
- Joint field research: The upcoming field phase on Porcher Island will expand baseline monitoring. This will also give researchers from the university network access to hard-to-reach wilderness areas to fill gaps in knowledge.
- Science communication & education: Research data obtained through this collaboration will not only be used for academic purposes but also adapted for joint educational programmes. This will inspire young people from an early age to recognise the importance of intact ecosystems.
This synergy makes it clear that research and active nature conservation must not be viewed as separate disciplines. They must support one another in order to remain truly capable of taking action in the current global climate crisis. We look forward with great anticipation to the upcoming projects within this network. For we are convinced that it is only through this close integration of scientific evidence and hands-on conservation that we can turn the tide in time to preserve the unique beauty and ecological integrity of the wilderness for the future.