June 22, 2026
Discovery Beneath the Surface – Bringing Marine Science and Exploration to Canadians
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BY: Liv Ward
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Ahead of World Oceans Day, Oceana Canada and Canadian Geographic welcomed close to 200 guests to Discovery Beneath the Surface in Ottawa. The evening explored what recent joint expeditions by Oceana Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada are revealing about the Southern Newfoundland Slope. Through expedition footage, photography, and discussion, guests explored new discoveries from this remarkable area off the Grand Banks.

The evening brought together scientists, Indigenous leaders, government representatives, donors, media, and ocean experts. The program began with Secretary of State for Nature Nathalie Provost, highlighting Canada’s commitment to protect 30% of our oceans by 2030.

BRINGING MARINE SCIENCE TO CANADIANS
Oceana Canada Marine Scientist Isabelle Jubinville shared preliminary findings from recent Southern Newfoundland Slope expeditions. She highlighted ancient coral habitats, vast sea pen fields, deep submarine canyons, and the marine life these habitats support. Her presentation revealed extraordinary biodiversity thriving hundreds of metres below the surface. These ecosystems have never been seen by most Canadians and are only now beginning to be documented in meaningful detail.

Within the broader vision to bring scientific discoveries to Canadians, the program also featured a short film from the expedition to the Southern Newfoundland Slope in October 2025.
TURNING DISCOVERY INTO DIALOGUE
Award-winning journalist and Canadian Geographic contributing editor, Alanna Mitchell, moderated an insightful panel discussion. Together, they helped translate complex science into an engaging and accessible conversation about exploration, stewardship, and what we are continuing to learn about Canada’s deep ocean.

Panelist (LtoR): Alanna Mitchell, Moderator, Canadian Geographic; Josh Laughren, Executive Director, Oceana Canada; Katleen Robert, Canada Research Chair in Ocean Mapping, Memorial University; Kathy Graham, Director General, Marine Conservation and Planning, Fisheries and Oceans Canada; Trevor Russ, Director of Policy and Programs, Coastal First Nations; and Adam Templeton, Ocean Technologist, Centre for Fisheries and Ecosystems Research, Marine Institute.
Following the panel, Oceana Canada Executive Director Josh Laughren provided closing remarks. With a copy of Canadian Geographic’s feature on the Southern Newfoundland Slope expedition in hand, guests left with a deeper connection to a place few Canadians will ever see.

Many stayed after presentations for a catered reception to engage with the event speakers in the gallery space. Meanwhile, guests explored Canadian Geographic’s floor map to learn more about protected marine areas in Canada.

STRENGTHENING PARTNERSHIPS FOR OCEAN STEWARDSHIP
The event reflected the strength of partnership in ocean conservation. Building on a joint scientific expedition conducted by Oceana Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and a storytelling collaboration with Canadian Geographic, it brought together science, exploration, and public engagement. These efforts help build the understanding needed for thoughtful, long-term stewardship of Canada’s ocean.
Learn more about the Southern Newfoundland Slope expedition.>>>

