The Northeast Pacific Deep Sea Exploration Project
Lead Organizations
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada
Project Description
The Northeast Pacific Deep-sea Exploration Project (NEPDEP) is a collective dedicated to studying the region's hidden biodiversity. It aims to enhance our comprehension of seamounts, hydrothermal vents, cold seeps, and other deep-sea ecosystems. The knowledge generated will guide the cooperative creation, management, and monitoring of effective conservation strategies for the region's diverse habitats, species, and ecosystem functions. As a UN Ocean Decade and Challenger 150 endorsed project, NEPDEP contributes to global deep-sea knowledge and 30x30 efforts. It also aligns with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and honors the International Decade of Indigenous Languages. NEPDEP is a grassroots collaboration of scientists, managers, and students from Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Council of the Haida Nation, Nuu-Chah-Nulth Tribal Council, Pacheedaht and Quatsino First Nations, University of Victoria, Royal British Columbia Museum, and Ocean Networks Canada.