Lead institution:
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) – Canada
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 30×30 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.
This project is hosted by the Ocean Decade Programme Challenger 150 – A Decade to Study Deep-Sea Life.
Start Date: 01/05/2023
End Date: 31/12/2030
Lead Contact: Cherisse Du Preez (cherisse.dupreez@dfo-mpo.gc.ca)