Janie Wray and Hermann Meuter were inspired to build Cetacealab in 2001. They formed the North Coast Cetacean Society, a charitable organization dedicated to the research and protection of whales in BC coastal waters.

We began our research into the behavior of whales in the early 1990s. This was during our time at Orcalab, a land-based whale research station on Hanson Island. With time we realized that most of the research being done on cetacean populations was concentrated in the southern waters of British Columbia. We decided to take the knowledge we had gained and travel north, where known humpback whale and orca activity exists, but with little research being done. Our first destination was Hartley Bay. Here we were to meet with the Hereditary Chief, Johnny Clifton, and ask for permission to build a whale research station within Gitga'at territory. To our amazement and respect, within just weeks of meeting, this permission was granted.

With our own funds we headed to an island recommended to us to build a research facility. This area is extremely remote so we considered ourselves extremely fortunate to find what was to be the perfect location on the south end of Gil Island. This first season was spent with a tent, one hydrophone station and a lot of rain. We sat, listened, and watched. Without a doubt this location was perfect in every sense: a fabulous spot to view whale behavior and protection from harsh winter storms.

Our determination was recognized and funding was received to build Cetacealab and establish hydrophone stations. This perfect combination allows us to listen to all whale vocalizations with in the research area right here at Cetacealab!

With the first stage of our research goal accomplished we will focus our attention into areas of conservation and education. To follow are the future initiatives:

Photo Identification Program and Catalogue of all humpback whales and orcas that frequent Caamano Sound to Douglas Channel

Education in regards to Salmon Farms, Seismic Testing, Oil and Gas Exploration, LFA (Low-Frequency Active) and all other threats to aquatic systems along the coast of BC

Involvement of the Gitga'at, first nations people of Hartley Bay, with our research and together, initiate solutions that encourage a balance between nature and industry

To establish an interpretive center within the Cetacealab

Inspire awareness towards Whales and the vital link that is the life force of this coastline ~ Wild Salmon