In recognition of World Oceans Day (June 8), we’re highlighting the unique ocean-related materials featured in Open Collections, as well as some of the important ocean research and advocacy work that takes place right here at UBC!
One of the most prominent collections featuring sea life is our Traité Général des Pesches, a series of plates highlighting French fishing life and fisheries, produced by Henri-Louis Duhamel de Monceau between 1769 and 1782. These plates are considered some of the finest works depicting the culture and techniques of fishing in France from that era. The images include detailed depictions of common fish, landscapes, tools of the trade, and even outfits worn by fishermen (and women) of the time. Explore the collection further here!
Another “seaworthy” digital collection is from the Fisherman Publishing Society, a newspaper which continues to publish in B.C.’s Lower Mainland on topics related to the Westcoast fishing industry and labour union events. Many unique photographs are included in this collection, which records the history of British Columbia’s fishing industry throughout the 20th century. Take a look at the entire digital collection here.
Today at UBC there are several teams working on important ocean-related research. The Institute for the Oceans and Fisheries is a leading research department which works alongside a number of partners and specialty units to assess the impacts of human activity on marine ecosystems. The Changing Ocean Research Unit studies the impact of climate change on the ocean, its ecosystems, biodiversity and fisheries, with the goal of identifying recommendations for mitigating adverse effects.
Finally, UBC is also home to Project Seahorse, a marine conservation group focused on the protection of seahorses and the marine environment more broadly. This project has successfully led the charge against international trade in seahorse exports, and pushed for ecosystem conservation efforts in seahorse habitats across the globe.
Celebrate World Oceans Day by checking out some of our great collections, and supporting the groundbreaking ocean research taking place right here at UBC!