Ocean Sensor Technologies

Assessing under what conditions low-cost sensors can provide adequate monitoring of ocean acidification (OA) to help industries and communities adapt to OA.

Project Dates: January, 2022 – March 31, 2026

Funding Amount: $531,000

Number of Student Researchers: 5

Project Summary

The initial project helped the CoP engage Canadian aquaculture operators and develop a low-cost alternative to expensive sensors capable of real-time data output. The development of this low-cost sensor option enhanced deployment and provide immediate cost savings for all aquaculture producers while also providing animal health and food safety benefits. Aligning our project with the CoP enables NIC to ensure that the latest academic and industry innovations are translated to our industry partners, resulting in early adoption opportunities for new technology that will support increased production.

The second project will see North Island College (NIC) and the University of Calgary (UCalgary) deploy an ocean acidification sensor package that combines high-quality, established sensor technology with new lower-cost sensors. This will assess the relative performance of lower-cost options and determine their effectiveness for use by stakeholders in BC . Real time access to data describing changing oceanographic and meteorological conditions is critical for effective management of modern aquaculture operations (Cater, 2008). An oceanographic sensor system allows the end user to interpret and act upon live data to ensure the best commercial outcome for their farm . This may improve growth rates, quality of product, and survival of animals, thus improving farm profit and strengthening BC food security. Many aquaculture operators, coastal communities, and First Nations have constitutionally protected rights to traditional harvests and are based on or around Vancouver Island. It is imperative to future-proof this region through the installation of readily accessible sensor arrays and subsequent services such as the hardware, software, and data storage required to manage such a system.

Additionally, the development of robust and accessible sensor technology provides data to inform evidence-based decision making alongside Traditional Ecological Knowledge to further our understanding about the OAH landscape in BC waters. Testing of these sensors in collaboration with industry partners enables us to strengthen collaboration and partnership, while serving to further inform and educate industry partners on the current state of OAH knowledge.