Coastal shoreline surveys

Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Emergencies Science and Technology Section is an internationally recognized research team with an established oil spill research and development program focused on addressing shoreline issues.

Why we study shorelines

Under the Oceans Protection Plan, these scientists are carrying out a number of studies to gather up-to-date data about the conditions of Canada’s shorelines. This work is important because shorelines are environmentally sensitive and need protection in the event of a spill.

How we survey a shoreline

Shoreline surveys include measuring the slope of the shoreline, taking photos, digging a few test pits to determine the types and depth of sediments, and taking sediment samples. This information is then recorded in the Pre- Shoreline Clean-up Assessment Technique (SCAT) form, which systematically documents the on-site assessments and operational features on the shoreline. All surveys are done at low tide so that scientists can study the exposed shoreline zones. Environment and Climate Change Canada collaborates with many agencies to collect as much data as possible across all scientific fields.

Shoreline Clean-up Assessment Technique (SCAT) is a method of systematically assessing and documenting shorelines and riverbanks after an oil spill. The scientific information gathered can influence response actions. Pre-SCAT uses the same method to document pre-spill conditions, so that up-to-date data is available should there be an incident that impacts the same location.

How we will use this information

The environmental data from these studies will strengthen our science-based decision-making and will help protect our marine environments and communities from the potential effects of spills and day-to-day vessel operations.

Coastlines surveyed to date include

British Columbia:

  • Saanich Inlet
  • Cowichan Bay
  • Southern Gulf Islands
  • Fraser River Delta
  • Burrard Inlet, in the Port of Vancouver area and Indian Arm
  • Douglas Channel
  • Grenville Channel
  • Several islands along the eastern side of Hecate Strait, including Haida Gwaii

New Brunswick:

  • Saint John
  • Bay of Fundy

Nova Scotia:

  • Port Hawkesbury
  • Strait of Canso

Ontario:

  • St. Clair River
  • Cornwall and islands in the St. Lawrence River

Quebec:

  • Parc National du Bic, near the community of baie du Ha! Ha!
  • St. François Lake and Beauharnois

For additional information

Emergencies Science and Technology Section
Environment and Climate Change Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
Telephone: 613-998-9622

Related links

Enhancing emergency preparedness and response

Report to Canadians: Investing in our coasts through the Oceans Protection Plan

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