Code of Conduct

Respect for Others

• Treat all members with courtesy, respect, and dignity regardless of experience level, background, or opinions

• Refrain from disruptive behavior during meetings, auctions, and other society events

• Value diversity and be inclusive of all members

• Listen attentively when others are speaking and avoid interrupting presentations

• Use appropriate language and tone in all communications

• Behave respectfully when representing the Calgary Aquarium Society and at all events and partner organizations

Care for Aquatic Life

• Prioritize the welfare and ethical treatment of all aquatic life in our care

• Maintain proper housing, water conditions, and nutrition for our animals

• Never knowingly release non-native species into local waterways

• Share accurate information about proper care practices

• Discourage the keeping of species that require specialized care beyond a member's capabilities

Event Participation

• Arrive on time for meetings and events when expected

• Follow all rules established for auctions, shows, and competitions

• Accept judges' decisions with good sportsmanship

• Handle others' aquatic life and equipment with care during events

• Pay promptly for purchases at auctions and other sales events

Society Property and Resources

• Treat society property, equipment, and library materials with care

• Return borrowed items by the agreed-upon date in good condition

• Use society resources only for their intended purposes

• Report any damaged resources to the appropriate committee chairperson

Knowledge Sharing

• Share knowledge freely with fellow members, especially beginners

• Provide honest and constructive feedback when asked

• Acknowledge when you don't know an answer rather than providing incorrect information

• Contribute to the collective learning of the society when possible

Business with Other Members

• Engage in fair and honest transactions when buying, selling, or trading

• Accurately represent the condition, health, and species of aquatic life being sold or traded

• Honor all agreements made with fellow members

• Resolve disputes directly and respectfully before involving society leadership

• Provide proper acclimation instructions when selling live animals

• Never knowingly sell or trade diseased stock without full disclosure

• Respect pricing at auctions and avoid collusion or bid manipulation

• Promptly follow through on commitments to purchase or sell as agreed

Compliance

• Adhere to society bylaws and established procedures

• Follow all applicable laws regarding the keeping, breeding, and selling of aquatic life

• Report concerns about conduct violations to the Board of Directors

• Accept decisions of the Board regarding membership issues

Online and Social Media Conduct

• Represent the society positively in online spaces

• Respect copyright and intellectual property in online discussions

• Maintain the confidentiality of membership information

• Use society social media and forums only for appropriate aquarium-related content