New Funding Equips Marine Research Station to Enhance Sunshine Coast Economy
Island Coastal Economic Trust and Loon Foundation announce $300K investment in innovative, community-driven project.
Island Coastal Economic Trust and Loon Foundation announce $300K investment in innovative, community-driven project
kalpilin, Pender Harbour, BC – A new state-of-the-art marine research, education, and tourism facility set to enhance the Sunshine Coast economy is receiving a major boost with the announcement of a new investment from Island Coastal Economic Trust.
The Pacific Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) will be a world-class aquatic research centre and year-round tourism destination project from The Loon Foundation and shíshálh Nation, developed to create new jobs, strengthen local communities, and support long-term scientific research.
Shaped by years of business planning and consultation to address the economic, demographic, and social needs of the Sunshine Coast, the project has now secured a $300,000 investment from the Trust through its Capital and Innovation funding program.
“Developed by and for our community, this investment will deliver a significant economic boost to the Sunshine Coast while providing timely research to help inform our response to the climate emergency and other pressing environmental challenges,” said Lana Brandt, Interim Executive Director of the Loon Foundation. “The project will also foster cultural understanding and create a vital hub where our community can connect, collaborate, and foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world. Support from Island Coastal Economic Trust strengthens our ability to bring this vision to life.”
Currently, the project is projected to support the local community with the creation of 26 permanent full-time jobs, nine part-time jobs, the creation of a new social enterprise, more than 200 volunteer opportunities, and the formation of 11 significant partnerships across First Nations, local governments, and educational and community sectors.
In addition to its research capacity, the net-zero carbon facility will feature diverse public attractions—including exhibits, a performance venue, programs, seasonal and year-round events, and a waterfront restaurant—designed to attract visitors in all seasons.
The Trust’s investment in PODS is guided by its Wellbeing Impact Framework, which evaluates projects based on economic prosperity, cultural vitality, climate resilience, and social empowerment. This lens ensures that investments contribute meaningful and lasting benefits for people and places across Vancouver Island and the coast.
“It’s an honour to have partnered on this initiative for over five years now, informing the Society’s development of their business plan for a new social enterprise that will create long-lasting benefits for the Sunshine Coast and its residents,” said Trust CEO Brodie Guy. “We’re delighted to now be investing directly, a testament to our confidence in what’s possible when innovation, First Nations partnerships, environmental stewardship, and community wellbeing guide development.”
Construction for the facility will begin in spring 2026 and is projected to conclude in 2028. The total project value is $30 million, representing a major investment in cultural, educational, and environmental infrastructure on the Sunshine Coast.
For more information visit: islandcoastaltrust.ca/project/capital-innovation-program/pacific-ocean-discovery-station-pods/
About Island Coastal Economic Trust
Island Coastal Economic Trust is the regional development organization founded by the Province of British Columbia under the North Island-Coast Development Initiative Trust Act to serve Vancouver Island and the surrounding coast. We partner with First Nations, local governments, businesses, and non-profits to drive prosperity and diversify the coastal economy through strategic economic investments. Over $401 million in direct new investment has been attracted to coastal B.C. through our partnerships since 2006. We believe that meaningful and lasting change is best achieved through strong, collaborative partnerships that unite people, communities, sectors, and resources. As we work toward inclusive and resilient economic futures, we do so with a deep appreciation for the histories, contributions, and rights of the Kwak̓wala/Bakwam’kala, Nuučaa̓nuɫ, Éy7á7juuthem, Ligwilda’xw, Pəntl’áč, She shashishalhem, Hul’q’umi’num’, diitiidʔaatx̣, SENĆOŦEN, Skwxwú7mesh, Lekwungen, and T’Sou-ke speaking peoples.
The Trust’s mandate has been to support economic diversification and growth across Vancouver Island, the Sunshine Coast, and islands and inlets from the Salish Sea to Cape Caution (see Our Region). Serving more than half a million residents, the Trust partners with communities in the development and financing of their economic infrastructure and diversification efforts through a unique structure that is led by and accountable to communities.
About The Loon Foundation/PODS
The Loon Foundation is a registered non-profit charity dedicated to protecting biodiversity, connecting people with the natural world, and fostering responsible stewardship for future generations.
Developed in close collaboration with the shíshálh Nation, the Pacific Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) will be a vibrant, net-zero facility that inspires, engages, and empowers all its visitors, students, and academic researchers with the wonders of the coastal waters of our region. PODS aims to demonstrate by example that scientifically-driven decision-making is essential to finding viable solutions to the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Media Contacts:
Kyle Wells
Manager, Communications and Impact
Island Coastal Economic Trust
kyle@islandcoastaltrust.ca
250-871-7797
Lana Brandt
Interim Executive Director
The Loon Foundation
media@loonfoundation.org
778-833-2954
Loon Foundation Bulks Up the Board
The Loon Foundation has re-established a full board of directors after dropping to the minimum required under the societies act in October.
New Directors Join Loon Foundation
On Saturday, Nov. 29, members of the Loon Foundation gathered at the Pacific Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) Showroom in Madeira Park for an annual general meeting, where the new board directors were appointed.
The Loon Foundation is welcoming seven new members to its Board of Directors, as the organization embarks on a new chapter of growth.
On Saturday, Nov. 29, members of the Loon Foundation gathered at the Pacific Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) Showroom in Madeira Park for an annual general meeting, where the new board directors were appointed. Together, these individuals bring expertise in biology, geography, shíshálh Nation culture, water security, renewable energy, communications, and fundraising, strengthening the foundation’s ability to expand its impact and advance its mission.
The new directors include:
• Candace T. Campo (xets’emits’a) — Cultural Director for the shíshálh Nation, anthropologist, and founder of Talaysay Tours.
• lhe hiwus (Chief) Lenora Joe — Chief of the shíshálh Nation and community leader.
• Michelle Johnston — vice president, communications at Syntax Strategic and former deputy director of communications to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
• Mike McDermid –– founding member of the Ocean Wise seafood program and co-founder of The Fish Counter, an award-winning sustainable seafood market and restaurant in Vancouver.
• Kathy Minehan — A Sunshine Coast resident and professional geologist (retired) with over 30 years in environmental consulting, including extensive environmental field investigations, data synthesis and interpretation, regulatory review, technical reporting, and senior project management.
• Bob Patrick — A long-time resident of Sechelt, Bob is a professor of geography and planning at the University of Saskatchewan and a member of the Global Institute for Water Security.
• Christine Thomas, MSc, RPBio — Registered professional biologist with over 25 years in environmental consulting, specializing in assessing and managing the impacts of contaminants on the environment.
New board directors join current co-chairs and Sunshine Coast residents Will Corse and Brendan Glauser, who will continue serving in their roles. The breadth of experience now represented on the board ensures the foundation is well-positioned to carry forward its important work, fostering responsible stewardship for future generations.
Guided by interim executive director Lana Brandt, the Loon Foundation is focused on an ambitious fundraising campaign to bring PODS to life, building on the momentum and excitement received to date.
Loon Foundation Announces Leadership Transition to Advance Vision for Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS)
As the Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) enters a new and pivotal chapter, the Loon Foundation today announced a leadership transition to build on the inspiring vision of its founder, Dr. Michael Jackson, who is retiring after 25 years of service.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: OCTOBER 2, 2025 [Madeira Park, B.C.] – As the Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) enters a new and pivotal chapter, the Loon Foundation today announced a leadership transition to build on the inspiring vision of its founder, Dr. Michael Jackson, who is retiring after 25 years of service.
Dr. Jackson, a marine ecologist and lifelong advocate for ocean conservation, helped create the Loon Foundation (originally the Ruby Lake Lagoon Nature Reserve Society) and is the visionary behind the PODS marine and climate research facility. He leaves the Loon Foundation and PODS project in the capable hands of its dedicated staff, Board of Directors, and partners, including the shíshálh Nation and Capilano University.
“Dr. Jackson’s passion and imagination brought PODS from an ambitious concept to a legitimate project that is about to break ground,” said Brendan Glauser, member of the Loon Foundation Board of Directors. “His vision is the foundation for everything that comes next, and the Loon Foundation community is grateful for his many contributions.”
To carry that vision forward, the Loon Foundation is pleased to announce Lana Brandt as Interim Executive Director. With nearly 20 years of non-profit experience, including work with the David Suzuki Foundation and as Executive Director of the Rob Stewart Sharkwater Foundation, Brandt brings proven expertise and a strong locally-rooted commitment to guiding PODS through its next phase of development.
“I’m honoured to step into this role at such a pivotal time,” said Brandt. “The vision for PODS is an extraordinary contribution to the local community and broader conservation movement. I’m committed to ensuring that vision becomes a reality, showing that solutions to our greatest challenges can emerge when modern science, traditional knowledge, art, culture and community come together.”
As PODS enters this next phase, priorities include advancing construction, fundraising, expanding community programming, and strengthening relationships and partnerships to bring PODS to life.
“The Loon Foundation is embarking on an exciting and ambitious fundraising campaign for PODS this year, and we’re deeply grateful for the community’s support,” said Will Corse, member of the Loon Foundation Board of Directors.“ With new leadership in place, and with Dr. Jackson’s vision as our compass, we’re excited to realize the full potential of PODS for generations to come.”
The Loon Foundation is a registered non-profit charity dedicated to protecting biodiversity, connecting people with the natural world, and fostering responsible stewardship for future generations.
Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) will be a vibrant, net-zero facility that inspires, engages, and empowers all its visitors, students and academic researchers with the wonders of the coastal waters of our region. PODS aims to demonstrate by example that scientifically-driven decision-making is essential to finding viable solutions to the most pressing environmental challenges of our time.
Media Contact: Loon Foundation
778.833.2954
media@loonfoundation.org
Ocean Discovery Hub Targets Net-Zero in Pender Harbour
The Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) project in British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast received a $13.4-million boost from the federal government. The facility, expected to be completed in Spring 2027, will create a vibrant hub for aquatic research, community engagement, and cultural programming, while adhering to the highest standards in green building technology.
The Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) project in British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast received a $13.4-million boost from the federal government. The facility, expected to be completed in Spring 2027, will create a vibrant hub for aquatic research, community engagement, and cultural programming, while adhering to the highest standards in green building technology.
The net-zero structure will feature interactive exhibits, laboratories, galleries, and performance spaces, with environmental stewardship courses and public programming.
The PODS has been a years-long collaboration between the Loon Foundation and shíshálh Nation to incorporate shíshálh traditional knowledge, western science, and local culture.
Dr. Michael Jackson, executive director of the Loon Foundation, said the project is expected to bolster the Sunshine Coast economy and bring together science, art, and Indigenous knowledge “to spark solutions for our planet’s most pressing environmental and social challenges.”
For more than 20 years, the Loon Foundation has worked to preserve and enhance the biodiversity of the Sunshine Coast and foster environmental stewardship. The shíshálh Nation has been traditionally stewarding the swiya.
“PODS exemplifies Reconciliation in action, demonstrating how collaboration can pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come,” said lhe hiwus (Chief) Lenora Joe, shíshálh Nation.
Major Funding Announced for Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station
Over $13 million in funding will go towards building a Net-Zero building to house the Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS). It’ll be home to exhibits, laboratories, galleries and public programming to inspire visitors with the natural world.
Last week, the development of Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS) took a significant step forward after shíshálh Nation signed a 15-year relationship agreement with the Loon Foundation, kicking off a landmark collaboration in the development and operation of PODS.
On Saturday, the federal government inked the deal with the announcement of a $13.4 million investment towards the project.
Patrick Weiler, MP for West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast-Sea to Sky Country, was in Pender Harbour Nov. 16, to make the announcement in front of an enthusiastic crowd, who braved the rain to attend the event. Weiler acknowledged the announcement was “many years in the making” and added, investing in infrastructure projects such as this is vital to building Canada’s economy and healthy communities.
“Today is a really exciting day because it's an example of how the federal government's going to be focused on building an even brighter future here on the Sunshine Coast,” said Weiler.
PODS, located within kalpilin (Pender Harbour), will be a net-zero facility built in collaboration with the Loon Foundation and shíshálh Nation to incorporate Indigenous traditional knowledge, western science and local culture. The state-of-the-art PODS building will be designed and operated to promote environmental stewardship and celebrate the region's rich biodiversity. The facility will also provide opportunities for potential employment, training and mentoring for shíshálh members in its development and operation and will support economic advancement for the community and specifically shíshálh Nation.
The agreement also covers the future operation and transfer of the Iris & Billy Griffith Interpretive Centre in a collaborative operation between shíshálh Nation and Loon Foundation. The PODS facility will give visitors a first-hand look into the region’s remarkable biological and cultural diversity, while being net-zero, a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere and the carbon removed from it.
Dr. Michael Jackson, executive director of the Loon Foundation, described Saturday’s announcement as “momentous.”
“Because not only have we suddenly got the money we need to move ahead… but also this relationship agreement, which has taken two-and-a-half years altogether. It's been a long process, but this whole thing has been a long process. I've been on it, I think, for 11 years,” Jackson told the crowd.
Jackson thanked a long list of supporters, including some who have since passed away over the years it’s taken the project to get to this point.
“I just think it's the vision and the dedication, with this kind of unwavering support we've had all along from so many passionate people, who just believe in this,” he said. “We get them every day, they come into our store and they just say, this is so wonderful what they're doing,” said Jackson. “But the thing about PODS is you could do this in any coastal town or village virtually anywhere in the world, and all you have to do is start caring about the place and about nature, but also hoping for better things for the future. But hope is no good unless you act on it. And so that's what we do. As you can see, we've been quite successful at it.”
lhe hiwus yalxwemult (Chief Lenora Joe), who was also in attendance at the announcement, said shíshálh Nation is “very happy” with the partnership.
“We're very excited to move forward. This is such an excellent opportunity for the people on the Sunshine Coast, particularly our children,” said lhe hiwus. “You know, this is going to be able to go beyond what we currently have in place for them and I think it's going to be just amazing. I was trying to explain this to our latest community member who was asking me what PODS was and I was like, ‘I don't know how to explain it. All I can say, it's got a lot to do with science and the ocean. There you go. So that's what they're going to be doing.’ But in all fairness, it’s going to be a magnificent project and we are very excited to partner with PODS on this. So again, we're very happy and can't wait to get started.”
Pender Harbour research station gets funding boost from the Federal Government
The federal government has committed $13.4 million to PODS, scheduled to open in 2027.
Plans for a new research station in Pender Harbour are one step closer to completion as the Federal Government announced a large boost of funding for the project.
MP Patrick Weiler made the announcement alongside the Loon Foundation and shíshálh Nation Chief Lenora Joe over the weekend.
Over $13 million in funding will go towards building a Net-Zero building to house the Pender Harbour Ocean Discovery Station (PODS). It’ll be home to exhibits, laboratories, galleries and public programming to inspire visitors with the natural world.
The Loon Foundation has been working with the shíshálh Nation to ensure the station blends both traditional ways of knowing and Western science.
“PODS exemplifies Reconciliation in action, demonstrating how collaboration can pave the way for a brighter future for generations to come,” says lhe hiwus Lenora Joe.
The Loon Foundation has been working for over 20 years to preserve biodiversity on the Sunshine Coast and this will be part of that story, says Dr. Michael Jackson executive director of the Loon Foundation.
“PODS will offer a vibrant community hub where science, art, and Indigenous knowledge intersect to spark solutions for our planet’s most pressing challenges and open new horizons for generations to come.”
The funding is part of the Green Inclusive Community Buildings program that launched in 2021.