At K'awat'si Shellfish, we're more than just a sustainable seafood provider; we're stewards of culinary excellence and environmental sustainability. Specializing in eco-friendly oyster farming, we're fully committed to the future of this nutritious and delicious marine delicacy. Sustainable oyster farming by K'awat'si Shellfish in Port Hardy, BC, proudly honouring Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Nations traditions.
We are dedicated to crafting the finest shellfish, offering the top selection for sustainable seafood. Discover the story of K'awat'si Shellfish's deriving from the rich heritage and legacy of the Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Nations dedication to stewardship and sustainability since time immemorial. Proudly located off the coast of North Vancouver Island, in the Ugwiwa Cape Caution Conservancy.
The Ugwiwa – Cape Caution Conservancy is collaboratively managed by both GNN and the Province of BC. The conservancy’s core objective is to safeguard an ecologically significant and culturally valuable region. Within this protected area, restrictions on industrial and recreational development are more stringent compared to regular crown land usage.
Oysters cultivated in these pristine, well-circulated waters exhibit a remarkably low likelihood of accumulating chemical contaminants in their tissue. This ensures the shellfish’s meat quality remains superior and poses minimal risk to human consumption. Notably, this holds true when comparing these conditions with traditional shellfish aquaculture sites in coastal British Columbia.
Certified by Ocean Wise eco-label for the sustainability of the facility, products, and low-carbon footprint. Click here to learn more about our certification.
Adopting solar energy to power the facility, minimizing reliance on fossil fuels.
Operating under the Debris Management Program to ensure no contaminants or pollutants enter the marine environment.
Maintaining a superior level of environmental practices to align seamlessly with Conservancy objectives.
Planning and operations are conducted in accordance with traditional ecological knowledge and cultural values of the Gwa’sala-‘Nak’waxda’xw Nations.Â
Our daily operations are designed around sustainable aquaculture methods and ethical business practices. We're not only preserving the rich flavours that make our oysters a culinary delight, but also ensuring they remain a renewable resource for generations to come.
To navigate the complexities of marine ecology, we work with certified institutions and researchers to assess the quality and impact our product has on the marine environment. This allows us to stay ahead of the curve, adapting to climate changes and other ecological shifts affecting our marine farming environments.
By forging strategic partnerships with Ocean Wise and BC Shellfish Growers Association, we aim to cultivate a shellfish industry that’s in harmony with the enduring health of our coastlines and oceans. When you choose K'awat'si Shellfish, you’re not only enjoying some of the finest oysters but also contributing to the sustainability of precious marine ecosystems and investing in the future generations of the Gwa'sala-'Nakwaxda'xw Nations.