History

The Oceanographic Environmental Research Society (OERS) was created in 1992, by its founder Michael Belanger, reflecting his passion for the ocean and all creatures, plant and animal found within it. OERS is a Canadian registered charity, able to issue donation receipts and has maintained its charitable status since its inception, with administrative headquarters in Barrie, Ontario, Canada.

In 2008 OERS established a field station in Saulnierville, Nova Scotia to facilitate the conduct of research in this critical world heritage site. In 2012, the field station became the Comeauville Marine Institute (CMI), a satellite hub for OERS’s local research and education programs, which have developed significantly over the years. Initiatives in education include collaborations with various universities and colleges both local in Nova Scotia and Ontario.

CMI has hosted a number of both public and student focused events encouraging experiential learning. Research programs have also evolved which have resulted in numerous presentations and publications both nationally and internationally. Ongoing program details can be found under relevant sections within our website.