community

our team:

Our team is centred around the common goals of sustainable ocean practices, policy change, education and community. We’re building a network of good neighbours, through welcoming people with diverse backgrounds and an interest in the sea. 

bretton hills

owner

  • For me, the journey towards regenerative ocean farming began with a passion for the ocean, food security and a desire to make the world a more equitable place. I felt powerless in the face of ocean acidification, climate change, corporate consolidation, and neoliberal capitalism. So naturally I threw myself into one of the most heavily regulated neolibral industries available. I began looking for opportunities at the intersection of my values and how I wanted to live my life- working outside with a dog, physically active, and living off grid, while creating a space that advocated for greater food security in western Canada. I deeply believe that people should be able to have simple, dignified work that pays well and nourishes their community. We work hard to find like minded restaurants and retailers that share this belief, and work closely with community organizations that share these beliefs.

zac varley

zac varley

operations manager

  • YOUTH IN NATURAL RESOURCES GRANT

    I had been following Ondine’s updates since Bretton first got the farm. We had some mutual friends and I was just getting interested in aquaculture at the time. It’s hard to believe that almost two years later I’m now applying my background in operations to help the farm grow. Finding ways to make our processes and products more viable, accessible and even replicable has been a very wild and gratifying experience so far!

madeleine abbot

environmental monitoring

  • SCIENCE HORIZONS YOUTH INTERNSHIP

    I’ve always been fascinated by ocean life, starting from trips to the beach and aquarium as a kid, to eventually doing marine ecology research as a UBC undergrad. I’m driven by a thirst for knowledge of the natural world, and a desire to improve our sustainability within it. I originally saw the Ondine Ocean Farm stand at my local farmers market and it immediately piqued my interest, which led to me getting involved. I’m excited to diversify my skill set and learn as much as I can on the farm!

anna dimoff

digital marketing

  • Marine life and the health of our beautiful Pacific Ocean has been front and center in my upbringing given our coastal location. I spent the majority of my time in the water growing up - whether it was lifeguarding or taking quick dips in the ocean along “Vancouver’s” beaches. My connection to the water has remained strong and now, through Ondine OceanFarm, I have the opportunity to learn more about the ecosystems that thrive just below the surface and share that information with you all through this website and our social media channels!

bagheera

security

  • I was born for this.

get involved

 

work - volunteer - study

opportunities for all

When we set out to grow our team - a word that came to mind was ‘autonomy’. The Ondine operation acts as a spring-board with the hopes of launching members onto their next endeavour, whatever that may be, equipped with a few more tools. We value self sufficiency and encourage each member to bring their own ideas and interests to the job. Our past and current team members help shape the path forward for Ondine OceanFarm, and continue on to shape the future of sustainable ocean practices.

Many of our positions are made possible through grant funding by the Canadian government. If you’re interested in working with us, you can find resources to grant opportunities by visiting our Library, or send us a message for further help in finding funding.

 

  • Do you have a research project or idea centred around sustainable ocean practises, marine biology, aquaculture, permaculture, off-grid system design/management, or related interests? We’re building a community hub for people looking to do land based projects spanning roughly 6 - 12 months in length. This position offers the environment to learn business skills unique to the marine industry. Grant’s are available for many opportunities applicable to supporting BC’s environmental objectives. Visit our library for further resources on grants, or send us a message for support.

  • Are you in a program focused on sustainability, environmental studies, marine biology, or related interests? We offer experience for students looking to do field work and get involved in the marine industry. The farm provides the immersive environment to learn hands-on land and water based skills, explore new ocean opportunities, and gain insight into business practises. Our operation strives to empower students to create sustainable food and energy systems for the future. Funding for all positions on our farm is provided through grants, visit our library for resources on finding one that might be right for you!

  • If you’re interested in off-grid living, aquaculture, sustainable farming practices, or are just looking to get your hands dirty - we have volunteer opportunities available! We’re looking for help building structures, clearing marine debris and general labour to maintain our farm. This volunteer work can be used as work credit for students. This work-share program would be two - three days in length with a group of volunteers focused on various hands on projects.

    More details on how to apply coming soon.

 

summer 2022 internships available for co-op students:

  • This position will work with our environmental monitoring lead to ensure monitoring is done throughout the summer. Independent projects include:

    • Developing a biodiversity index and monitoring protocol

    • Temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen monitoring

    • Harvest vibrio test sampling

    • Plankton monitoring

    This position will provide you with the opportunity to learn about the practical application of environmental regulations.

    Contact us for more information.

  • This position will work closely with our operations lead, supporting them in developing and maintaining operations protocols, as well as supporting project management development.

    Independent projects include:

    • Shed building & raft building

    • Maintaining inventory tracking

    • Equipment inventory, labeling and quality review

    Contact us for more information.

 

past team members

iris janssen

structural design & farm hand

  • I've had the pleasure of working on the water with our lovely team, watching orcas in the midst of a workday, and feeling the salty spray of beautiful boat rides to and fro. I'm now primarily working remotely, using my architectural design background to create 2D plans and drawings for infrastructure improvements and other exciting new projects around the ocean farm. I'm looking forward to spending more time learning about designing for off-the-grid living and working, and getting to see our projects come to fruition.

bennett brule

co-op student

community partners

 

 interested in partnering with us?

get in touch to carry our product, or contribute to our mission of sustainable ocean farming practices and marine debris removal.

library

grant funding and employment programs

  • Eco Canada has a broad array of employment programs available for youth entering the industry. Funded through the federal government, these programs range from 6 - 12 months. There are opportunities for students and recent graduates, as well as resources for employers in search of funding.

    Visit the site.

education

  • A brief history of shellfish sales and farming in the province, provided by the BC Shellfish Growers Association. Click through their menu for more information on aquaculture and farming, shellfish handling, and more.

    Visit the site.

  • The Oyster Man has to be the most enthusiastic and colourful bivalve consumer online. Scroll through to find reading recommendations and video content for entertaining lessons all about oysters and shellfish.

    Visit the site.

we’re building a regenerative ocean farm that produces little - to - no waste, creates habitat for sea life, and brings people closer to the magic of the sea. our work is advancing a diverse range of business opportunities that support developing bc’s environmental objectives.