Not-for-profit society
Pacific Wildlife Foundation is a federal not-for-profit society with charitable status registered in Canada (#891381444RR0001). Our mission is to inspire conservation of coastal and marine ecosystems through scientific inquiry and education.
What we do
Pacific Wildlife Foundation conducts original scientific research, provides conservation advice, disseminates our findings, and encourages opportunities to experience the Pacific Ocean.
Our approach
Our tag line of ‘objective science for conservation’ means that we approach each study by letting the data dictate recommendations and courses of action. All projects are led by a Board member or Fellow and are part of an Ocean Strategy available on request. We collaborate with interested governments, businesses, non-profit organizations, and universities who agree with our approach. Results have appeared in scores of scientific journals, in books, films and at conferences.
Funding & Support
Operating an ocean-going research organization takes a lot of support. To the many individuals, organizations, universities, and businesses that share our interest in objective scientific research for conservation and choose to help us, we are truly grateful. Our on-going Sustaining Supporters and Project Supporters include anonymous donors and individuals, and the following organizations and businesses.
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Jamies Whaling Station
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Remote Passages Marine Excursions
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Reed Point Marina
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Bluewater Adventures
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Clayoquot Biosphere Trust
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Hodgson Family Foundation
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Spencer L. Murfey Family Foundation
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Mossom Creek Hatchery
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Burrard Inlet Enhancement Society
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City of Port Moody
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Port of Vancouver
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Sitka Foundation
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Knowledge Network
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Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea
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Department of Fisheries and Oceans
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Whale Trust, Maui
History
Our roots go back to 1981 when current Dr. Jim Darling was one of the founders of the West Coast Whale Research Foundation (WCWRF) to study whales. WCWRF contributed significantly to the first scientific descriptions of gray, humpback and killer whales in British Columbia and the North Pacific, and through education programs. Several prominent cetacean scientists operating in British Columbia today have their roots in the WCWRF. In 2003, Dr. Rob Butler with advice from Dr. Darling led the transition to Pacific Wildlife Foundation to reflect a new and wider role, and served as President until 2021 when he became an Honorary Director. Dr. Darling continues to serve as a Director of Pacific Wildlife.
Governance
The business of the Pacific Wildlife Foundation is directed by a volunteer Board of Directors comprising of renowned scientists, educators, business people and communicators. Fellows and Associates include highly qualified marine scientists, educators, and communicators who volunteer for fixed terms to assist the Foundation meet its objectives. Our funding is derived largely from research and education grants, private donations from individuals and businesses, and legacies. Where allowed, we withhold 5 to 10% for administration and operations.