Imagine the Grand Canyon, submerged underwater. Now multiply that by 10,000. That’s how many underwater canyons have been identified in the global ocean over the last decade. But while the scientific exploration of canyons advances, so does the human footprint. Increased demand for energy, minerals and fisheries makes it all the more urgent for us to understand and protect these dynamic ecosystems before they are altered or damaged by these human impacts.

This summer, an international community of submarine canyon scientists gathered in Victoria, British Columbia to present state-of-the-art research and discuss new technology, marine policy and conservation. From 25-27 July, Ocean Networks Canada hosted the third INCISE...