1997 – First attempt to combine the existing research centres of the Acadian Peninsula (Marine Products Research and Development Centre/Peat Research and Development Centre). A study is conducted, but produces no tangible results.    

1998 – The Ted Gaudet report, flowing from consultations of the Acadian Peninsula Economic Development Commission, recommends amalgamating the research centres.   

2000 – Creation of the Action Plan for the Economic Renewal of the Acadian Peninsula, which includes a Research and Development component. A few months later, the Université de Moncton, Shippagan Campus (UMSC) and the Government of New Brunswick hire Maurice Beaudin of the Canadian Institute for Research on Regional Development. Mr. Beaudin’s mandate is to evaluate existing studies and look at bringing the research centres together.     

Juin 2001 – Presentation of Maurice Beaudin’s report. It recommends amalgamating the research centres within a single institute. The provincial government subsequently announces an investment of one million dollars for the eventual creation of this institute.    

Août 2001 – Lise Ouellette is hired as coordinator for the establishment of the institute.   

Octobre 2003 – The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) announces a contribution of $3.5 million for the Coastal Zones Research Institute (CZRI) project. Next follows the signature of three agreements regarding the aquaculture research program with the New Brunswick Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Aquaculture.    

Janvier 2005 – Employees of the CZRI and the CCNB - Acadian Peninsula Campus - move into the new building.   

Avril 2005 – Appointment of the first General Director, Gastien Godin.   

19 juin 2005 – Official opening of the main CZRI pavilion.     

Avril 2006 – Appointment of new Scientific Director for Fishery and Marine Products, Jacques Gagnon, Ph.D.   

To learn more about the events leading up to the creation of the CZRI, we invite you to consult the following document: CZRI background