By Alexandra Mehl  Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Coastal British Columbia- Off the west coast of Vancouver Island is an area spanning 133, 019 square kilometers identified as the Offshore Pacific Area of Interest, also known as Tang.?wan-?a?x?iqak-Tsig?is. Within Tang.?wan-?a?x?iqak-Tsig?is there are deep sea hydrothermal vents and seamounts surrounded by vibrant coastal ecosystems. After years of negotiation, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO), Haida Nation, Nuu-chah-nulth Tribal Council, Pacheedaht First Nation and Quatsino First Nation came to an agreement of principle on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the proposed marine protected area (MPA). They are now taking the MOU to their respective leadership for approval. The MOU is being shared with the Council of Ha’wiih, for consideration of approval. “We were interested, because we really want to make sure

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