On November 19, 2019 GBBR held its first State of the Bay Conference at the Charles W. Stockey Centre in Parry Sound. Approximately 100 people were in attendance to hear about the latest research and monitoring findings on water quality, the lower food web, and fish communities. Attendees heard from knowledgeable presenters representing various government agencies, First Nations, and local environmental organizations. They also had the opportunity to ask questions and have their voices heard during the three breakout sessions throughout the day.
Thank you to everyone who shared their thoughts, experiences, and concerns about the Bay!
If you weren’t able to make it to the conference, all of the presentations are available for you to view right here!
Introduction and Climate Change Keynote
Lake Huron Lakewide Action and Management 2017-2021 – Paul Parete, Environment and Climate Change Canada
Climate Change Keynote – David Sweetnam, Georgian Bay Forever
Traditional Knowledge & Climate Change at Magnetawan First Nation – Cory Kozmik, Magnetawan First Nation
Water Quality
The Coastal Fringe: A Defining Feature of Water Quality in Eastern Georgian Bay – Todd Howell, Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks
Georgian Bay Forever Programs – David Sweetnam, Georgian Bay Forever
Lower Food Web
(Offshore) Lower Food Web of Georgian Bay and Lake Huron – David ‘Bo’ Bunnell, USGS
Algae and Zooplankton Community Dynamics in Severn Sound – Aisha Chiandet, Severn Sound Environmental Association
Fish Communities
Fish Communities in Georgian Bay and Responses to Ecosystem Change – Arunas Liskauskas, Upper Great Lakes Management Unit
Shawanaga First Nation Fish Hatchery Program – Aaron Pamajewong, Shawanaga First Nation
Special thanks to:
- Ozawaanimkeeqwe (Deina) Bomberry for opening and closing the day
- Community Kitchens for the tasty morning and afternoon treats
- Country Gourmet for the delicious lunch
- The Stockey Centre for the use of the facility on the shore of beautiful Georgian Bay
