History

The Harrison Lewis Centre opened in 2008, providing a venue for research, education and appreciation through workshops, seminars, and a variety of presentations. However, its origin goes back more than a decade as residents and friends of the Port Joli Basin recognized and began talking about the need for a field laboratory and station to support students of natural history.

When it came to naming the Centre, an obvious choice was the late Dr. Harrison Flint Lewis who long ago recognized the ecological importance of the area and chose to live nearby in active retirement from his position as first Director of the Canadian Wildlife Service.

Dr. Harrison Flint Lewis.

Establishing the Centre has been a collaborative effort aided by volunteers. The main building and bunk houses were built largely with timbers milled by the grandson and great grandsons of Dr. Lewis from logs grown on neighboring lands. The majority of furnishings, appliances, and laboratory equipment were (and continue to be) generously donated by a variety of individuals and organizations.

Governance

The Harrison Lewis Coastal Discovery Centre Society is a registered charitable organization, governed by an all-volunteer board of directors.

Lewis Dingwall, Chairman
Anne van Loon, Sec. Tr.

Members at large:
Jane Cook
Brooke Gray
Peter Carver

Ex officio member:
Dirk van Loon

 

Getting involved

Researcher-in-Residence
In the interest of supporting independent research pertaining to the environment of the South Shore coastal region the Harrison Lewis Centre has instituted a Research-In-Residence program. Please contact the Centre for details.

 

Volunteers
There is much to do in maintaining facilities and programs at the Harrison Lewis Centre. We invite volunteers to join us for periods of up to two-weeks from May to October. In exchange for help the centre provides food, lodging, and discounted rates for seminars, workshops, etc. Contact the Centre for details.

Helping out
Cash donations to build a bursary program and purchase supplies are welcomed. Pending charitable status, receipts for tax purposes cannot be issued. Donations of used tools, lab equipment, and specific items of furniture are appreciated.