WSU BEACH WATCHERS

Feeding Birds and Animals in the Winter

2012-01-24T12:51:00.000-08:00

Dennis Linden passed along this link from the Washington State Dept. of Fish and Wildlife regarding the feeding of wildlife during the winter months. There are some good tips to follow.

http://wdfw.wa.gov/living/crossing_paths/

COASST Bird Training

2012-01-19T15:09:00.000-08:00

The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) will be conducting training on Lopez, Orcas and San Juan Islands next month. As a COASST volunteer you select a beach to monitor monthly for dead birds. You learn how to identify the birds and report any findings to the Univ. of Washington School of Aquatic and Fisheries Services. If you are interested please RSVP by email or phone. Current volunteers are also welcome to refresh their bird identification skills. The schedule is as follows:

SAN JUAN ISLAND TRAINING
Friday Harbor Labs, Commons Building
620 University Rd, Friday Harbor
Saturday, February 11, 2012, 10am-4pm

LOPEZ ISLAND TRAINING
Lopez Island Library
2225 Fisherman Bay Rd, Lopez Island
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 10am-4pm

ORCAS ISLAND TRAINING
Orcas Island Public Library
500 Rose St, Eastsound
Sunday, February 12, 2012, 12:30-6pm
　
Coffee, tea, and snacks will be provided for all events, but please bring a lunch as there will be a break mid-training. COASST volunteers and the general public are welcome to attend any of these events. All are free; participants that choose to become a new COASST volunteer and adopt a survey beach pay a $20 deposit on supplies and materials.

RSVP to: Annie Woods at coasst@u.washington.edu or phone her.
Volunteer Coordinator - COASST
School of Aquatic and Fishery Sciences
University of Washington
Seattle, WA 98195-5020
ph (206) 221-6893

Ways of the Whales Workshop - January 28

2011-12-31T18:20:00.000-08:00

The annual Ways of the Whales Workshop sponsored by Orca Network is scheduled for January 28 at Camp Casey on Whidbey Island. For more information and to register: http://www.orcanetwork.org/news/events.html

Harbor Porpoises Returning to San Francisco Bay

2011-12-31T15:31:00.000-08:00

After an absence of 60 years, Harbor porpoises are returning to San Francisco Bay. They left largely due to pollution from heavy industrial activity during WWII and after. But in the 1970s as a result of the Clean Water Act of 1972, the Bay was cleaned up.

http://news.discovery.com/earth/harbor-porpoise-return-to-san-francisco-bay-111230.html

Gray Whale Migration is On

2011-12-31T07:59:00.000-08:00

This is an excellent article on the gray whale migration south from the Arctic region. Apparently, it was a very good feeding summer as the whales appear to be fat and in good condition. NOAA plans to conduct aerial surveys to identify pregnant females.

http://www.grindtv.com/outdoor/blog/32010/gray+whale+sightings+soar+to+record+numbers+off+southern+california/

New Zealand Orca Attacks Sharks

2011-12-31T07:50:00.000-08:00

On December 27 a male orca was seen attacking sharks in the surf off New Zealand. Local people videoed the event. http://www.grindtv.com/outdoor/blog/32154/orca+attacks+shark+in+surf+zone+as+beachgoers+watch+in+awe/

It is believed there were other orcas present but they were herding fish into the shallows. One shark beached itself to get away, but then was harassed by a dog! Apparently, the shark attacks went on for a couple of hours.

"The Whale" Movie Is Gaining Momentum

2011-12-23T22:10:00.000-08:00

A recent update from Suzanne Chisolm and Michael Parfit, producers of "The Whale," the story of L-pod orphan Luna, indicates that the movie (already shown in a lot of major US cities,) is gradually spreading out to smaller cities and towns. Check out their website for info on how you can help spread the word. Hopefully the DVD will be released sometime in 2012. http://www.thewhalemovie.com.

A Nice Christmas Present - New J-Pod Calf!

2011-12-23T22:04:00.000-08:00

December 17 was the first sighting of J-48, a new calf born to J-19, Slick. It is estimated that the calf, seen in Puget Sound the morning of the 17th with fetal folds still visible, was probably just a few hours old. This is Slick's fifth calf since her first (J-26) was born in 1991. It will be interesting to find out (hopefully,) who's the baby's father.

Creosote Log Removal Project Very Successful!

2011-12-23T21:58:00.000-08:00

The removal of creosote logs from Lopez beaches this fall (reported here in October,) was a very successful project! Three and a half miles of beachfront were cleaned up, including Fisherman Bay Preserve, Weeks Wetland, and Odlin Park, with over 65 tons of logs left the island. Kudos to Tim Clark, Land Bank manager, Lisa Kaufman of DNR and her group of volunteers for a job well done.

Celebration of Successful Indian Island Season

2011-12-23T17:11:00.001-08:00

On Friday, November 18, Beach Watchers, Kwiaht and Orcas High School students gathered at the Eastsound Community Center to share with the community the results of their 3rd season of research and monitoring activities. About 120 people participated in the evening's activities, more than double the number who attended last year. Guests circulated around the room viewing various exhibits explaining what Indian Island Marine Health Observatory volunteers have been learning. Hands-on activities included identifying microscopic plankton samples, learn more about why micro-plastics are a serious problem on Eastsound's beaches, and watching experiments on how salt water and fresh react to each other. During the evening's program, student and adult volunteers were recognized, and Russel Barsh presented a slide show showing how the summer research is carried out and some of the more interesting findings. One of the season's highlights was the successful fledging of three oystercatcher chicks! Volunteers have helped to protect the parents' nest for two seasons now. One chick survived last year, and now three! Music and delicious food rounded out the evening. Among the Orcas Beach Watcher volunteers who organized and participated in the evening were: Sheldon Gregory, Marcia Spees, Nancy Alboucq, Kim Secunda, Rusty Diggs, Ron Kinner, Margo Shaw (with apologies to anyone we've forgotten to mention!) Here are a few photos:

As a Citizen Scientist You Can Learn to Recognize Whale Calls and Be A Part of The Whale Song Project

2011-12-09T16:00:00.000-08:00

Listen to Whale FM and learn how to recognize whale calls and be a part of The Whale Song Project., which is sponsored by Scientific American.

Click on http://whale.fm/

Whale.fm is one of several projects using crowd-sourcing to work through huge datasets where human senses are better than computers at picking out patterns. It is run by Zooniverse, a developer of citizen science projects that started in 2007. With the data collected, scientists hope to research whether the killer whales and pilot whales have specific dialects within family groups. They may also get some insight into how commercial shipping, oil drilling and other noisy ocean activities are affecting whale life.

Happy listening and learning.

No Limit to Killing Endangered Sea Lions in New Zealand

2011-12-08T15:16:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately, New Zealand sea lions like squid, but so do people. So guess who loses this battle? The sea lions are a bykill of the nets used to catch the squid. Read the story at: http://www.scoop.co.nz/stories/PO1112/S00032/fishing-industry-free-to-kill-endangered-sea-lions.htm

Puget Sound Science Review Website

2011-12-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

This is a new site you should all have bookmarked. The Puget Sound Science Review is a publication of the Puget Sound Institute at the University of Washington, and is founded as part of a cooperative agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Puget Sound Partnership. Here is the link: http://www.pugetsoundscience.org/

Whale Museum & Center for Whale Research Apply for Research Permits on Marine Mammals

2011-11-17T11:52:00.000-08:00

The Northwest Fisheries Science Center, The Whale Museum and The Center for Whale Research have applied for new permits to conduct research on marine mammals. NOAA Fisheries is requesting comments on those applications. Please see the Federal Register notice on the Fisheries Northwest Region website at http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/Publications/FR-Notices/2011/upload/76FR68161.pdf for details. You must submit comments by Dec. 5, 2011.

NOAA Releases Draft of New Enforcement Policies for Fishermen, Boaters

2011-11-17T11:50:00.000-08:00

NOAA Fisheries has released a draft of its enforcement priorities and invited the public to submit comments through January 9, 2012. These enforcement priorities are the latest step NOAA is taking to improve its enforcement program, and will help the agency emphasize compliance through better communication with fishermen, boaters, and others. Compliance assistance to whale watchers to reduce illegal interactions is included in the Regional Priorities. Enforcement has played a key role in developing and implementing the new vessel regulations to protect killer whales in Washington (http://www.bewhalewise.org/), and this is an opportunity to provide feedback to the Office of Law Enforcement. The draft priorities and information about submitting comments are available online at http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/ole/enforcement_priorities.html.

Dead Female Orca Calf Found on Washington Coast

2011-11-17T10:18:00.000-08:00

A newborn female killer whale calf was found dead at Seaview (on the Long Beach Peninsula) on Sunday, November 14, 2011. The carcass was transported to Portland State University where a necropsy was performed by Portland State University, NOAA Fisheries, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Cascadia Research, and Dr. Stephen Raverty. The killer whale calf has not yet been identified to population or ecotype, such as Southern Resident or transient, and a full suite of samples was collected and has been sent to several labs for analysis. NOAA will provide an update when they have more information on the results of this stranding investigation.

Indian Island Marine Health Observatory Annual Report Friday, November 18th

2011-11-11T09:06:00.000-08:00

Save the date for the Indian Island Marine Health report to the Community to be held on Friday, November 18th, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m in the Madrona Room at the Orcas Center on Orcas Island. The meeting will include marine slide shows, music, interactive displays, and new data on the health of the Eastsound waterfront presented by KWIAHT Director, Russel Barash. Different displays will be available. Including a phytoplankton presentaion, inter-active microscopes, touch tanks and an examination of the current bioremediation project underway in Eastsound's wetlands. Children are invited to attend with an art project table available just for them. In addition, a meal will be provided by the Orcas Village store. This event is free. Tax-deductible donations to further this long-term project are welcome. Please plan on attending this entertaining and informative snapshot of the Eastsound waterfront. Come "Celebrate the Bay". For further information go to: www.indianisland.info.

News from NOAA on the Southern Resident Orcas

2011-11-02T13:42:00.000-07:00

Southern Resident killer whale recovery program update:

NOAA Fisheries and Fisheries and Oceans Canada recently held a workshop to present available information on salmon fisheries and Southern Resident killer whales to an independent scientific panel. The meeting was part of series of workshops to review available scientific information on the effects of salmon fisheries on Southern Resident killer whales. Background information on the workshop process and presentations from the first workshop are available on our web page at: http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/Marine-Mammals/Whales-Dolphins-Porpoise/Killer-Whales/ESA-Status/KW-Chnk.cfm

Orca research: NOAA's Northwest Fisheries Science Center recently published a Southern Resident Killer Whale Research Update summarizing the latest research results on taxonomy, behavior, ecology, health, anthropogenic impacts and socioeconomics. The newsletter is available at: http://www.nwfsc.noaa.gov/research/divisions/cbd/marine_mammal/marinemammal.cfm

Springer/A73 update: In case you hadn't heard, Springer (A73) returned to Canadian waters with A Pod again this summer. Dr. Pete Schroeder, a veterinarian who helped rescue Springer, had an opportunity to see her this summer and provide an update on her health status. His report is available on our A73 web page at: http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/Marine-Mammals/Whales-Dolphins-Porpoise/Killer-Whales/A73-Orphan-Orca.cfm. Next year will be the 10th anniversary of Springer's successful rescue and return to her family!

The NOAA Fisheries Northwest Region has a new home page, which features stories about regional activities and partnerships. We just added a story about The Whale Trail. Check out our home page at: http://www.nwr.noaa.gov/nwrcms2/

Long Live the Kings - King Salmon that is

2011-10-26T14:13:00.000-07:00

Volunteers including WSU Beach Watchers have been working hard during spawning season at the Glenwood Springs Salmon Hatchery on Orcas to collect eggs and milt from the over 1300 salmon that have returned so far this year (almost double last year's total of 750) and then mix them for placement into incubation trays.
The Glenwood Springs Salmon Hatchery is considered one of the most environmentally natural hatcheries in the world. Young salmon live in outdoor ponds and for the most part have to fend for themselves for food in a practice that most clearly mimic nature. Salmon from this hatchery have been found to most closely resemble the wild species in appearance, behavior and biochemical makeup.
These pictures show adult salmon being collected for their milt and eggs.

New Bridge over Cascade Creek

2011-10-26T13:56:00.000-07:00

After several months of construction a new bridge has been completed over Cascade Creek in Olga on Orcas Island. Prior to the new bridge a small culvert connected Cascade Creek to Buck Bay. For decades the old design significantly impeded the movement of water into the Bay and impacted the movement of salmon and trout. The questions being considered are: Will the new bridge increase fish and water movement in Cascade Creek? Will it affect the shape of the shores of the bay and creek?

To find out a team of WSU Beach Watchers from Orcas Island are monitoring stream bank sediments and vegetation, tidal flux and salinity, and fish migrations and spawning. The data gathered from this reseach will help to improve the design of future projects. Including the bridges recommended for three other fish bearing streams on Orcas. The streams under consideration are Fish Trap, Bonnie Brae at West Beach and West Sound.

More pictures: http://www.flickr.com/photos/7992403@N02/

Celebrate the Bay - November 18th

2011-10-26T13:27:00.000-07:00

Volunteers of the Indian Island Marine Health Observatory are hosting a "Celebrate the Bay" gathering on Friday, November 18th from 5:30 to 7:30 pm in the Madrona Room at the Orcas Center on Orcas Island. WSU Beach Watchers and members of the public are invited to attend. There will be music and refreshments.

The Celebration will include displays, slide show, and a report on the biodiversity of the Eastsound waterfront. Using data on fish, invertebrates and eelgrass compiled over the last three years the Indian Island team has identified changes in the timing and distribution of marine life that may reflect weather changes and/or contaminated urban runoff.

Please attend and learn more about what is changing and why and what we can do about it. Oh, did I mention there will be refreshments! Free admission, but donations are always welcome.

Two Orcas Die in Alaska River

2011-10-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

Recently, three whales were sighted about 30 miles up the Nushagak River in southwest Alaska, just east of Dillingham. Two female whales died and the third whale, a juvenile, has not been sighted. The hope is that it found its way back to salt water. A necropsy was performed on one of the females and revealed no cause of death, but that she was in a late term pregnancy. The other female will be necropsied as well. Biologists are baffled as to what the whales were doing so far up the river, and hope the second necropsy will reveal a cause of death, as well as the pod they belong to.

The full story is at: http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/nationnow/2011/10/killer-whale-that-died-in-alaska-river-was-pregnant.html

Puget Sound Partnership (PSP) Open House October 19 on the Interisland Ferry.

2011-10-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

PSP is holding a series of open houses in various locations around the Sound this month. Their purpose (as shown on their website,) is to:

· share information about PSP's measure of Puget Sound health - the Vital Signs;

· highlight Puget Sound recovery priorities and accomplishments, especially any local priorities and accomplishments;

· describe the upcoming update to the Puget Sound recovery plan, the Action Agenda, and get public input;

· provide general educational information about Puget Sound, recovery, and what individuals can do to help.

The San Juan County event will be on the inter-island ferry on Wed. Oct 19. The presentations will begin when the ferry departs from Friday Harbor at 11:30 am, and will continue for two round trips through the islands, returning to FH at 5:10 pm.

In addition to the PSP part of the afternoon, island environmental organizations are encouraged to set up displays as well, and Kwiaht intern Aileen Murphy is helping to organize a display with handouts and photos of all three of the islands’ Marine Health Observatories. Email Aileen: aileendmurphy@gmail.com before Oct 17 if you’d like to help. Islanders can board the ferry at any point during the afternoon to enjoy and learn from the information presented.

Upcoming Creosote Log Removal from Lopez Beaches

2011-10-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

Tim Clark, Lopez Land Bank Manager, has been working hard for several months on a big project that is about to come to fruition. During the week of October 17, Several hundred lineal feet of creosote-soaked logs will be airlifted off Lopez Land Bank property at Fisherman Bay Preserve Spit, and Weeks Wetland, and sent to a hazardous waste landfill on the mainland. Here are some excerpts from the Islands Weekly news article written by Land Bank Manager Tim Clark, (published in the Oct. 11 issue.)

“The State Department of Natural Resources will be supervising a crew from the Puget Sound Corps in addition to the helicopter, all funded by the Department of Ecology. Members of the crew will carry smaller pieces of treated wood to a container, and carefully cut the larger logs into manageable pieces before loading.

“Lisa Kaufman has overseen creosote removal projects at the DNR for six years, and delights in cleaning up sensitive habitat. In addition to the two preserves, Odlin Park will take part in the project along with neighboring private landowners.

“Though creosote has been banned from new marine construction, old docks and pilings break down, float off, and collect in pockets during winter storms. They can leach toxic chemicals called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs} into the ground and water for years.”

Lopez Beach Watcher Pat Johnson (’11) helped Tim count and tag the logs earlier this year.

Oct 14-15: Kitsap County Symposium on Water Issues

2011-10-12T09:41:00.000-07:00

Learn how to grow shellfish in your backyard, create salmon habitat, and plant native plants in your garden. These are some of the water topics featured at a two-day event called “Water Courses – Connecting West Sound,” that is coming up this weekend. This large educational symposium, with more than 36 speakers, is family –friendly and open to the public. It is sponsored by WSU Kitsap Extension and WA Sea Grant.

Friday, October 14, 8 am to 4:30 pm, Naval Undersea Museum Auditorium, Keyport,WA

Sat, October 15, 9 am to 3:30 pm, Keyport Community Church

Scientists, including Sea Doc’s Joe Gaydos, will present research information during the first day. On the second day, attendees can choose from a large variety of workshops focused on natural gardening, wildlife, energy conservation, preserving food, etc.

An event schedule and registration information are available on WSU Kitsap County Extension's website: www.kitsap.wsu.edu. Cost is $45 for both days, lunch & beverages included. $30 for day 1; $25 for day 2. WSU Kitsap County Extension and Washington Sea Grant coordinated this two-day seminar.

Fisherman Bay Marine Health Observatory Update

2011-10-12T09:20:00.000-07:00

The Fisherman Bay MHO Steering Committee held its quarterly meeting on October 6 to recap what the project has accomplished so far, and to prioritize goals for the coming year. The weekly bird surveys around Fisherman Bay, which will be ongoing, record not only species and numbers, but also migration, diet and behavioral data, Beach Watcher Pat Johnson has also been sampling oxygen levels in the Bay and doing plankton tows. The first annual “Day for the Bay” in April, and information booths at the Lopez Farmers’ Market on three Saturdays during the summer were the major outreach activities of the project. Kwiaht intern Nathan Hodges has also been working on a fascinating set of GIS maps with detailed information on the Fisherman Bay watershed.

Among the existing or planned Kwiaht projects that are related to the health of Fisherman Bay, the Committee decided that their focus for the coming year will be on 1) Village drainage and stormwater, and 2) improving tidal circulation in the Bay. Specific goals and plans are being developed, and there will be a number of volunteer opportunities in the coming months.

The MHO has a new email address: fishermanbaymho@gmail.com and their website is www.fishermanbay.org .

National Public Lands Day Event on Lopez Was a Big Success

2011-10-12T09:18:00.000-07:00

More than 40 people visited Lopez BLM properties on Sat. Sep 24, and took part in service and educational projects to celebrate National Public Lands Day. The event, wonderfully organized by BLM staff member Sara Waugh, with the help of the Lopez Island Land Bank and Conservation Corps, included three educational stations at Watmough Bight – hands-on tidepool exploration, a talk about eelgrass, and an interpretive walk through the Watmough wetlands. In addition to cutting back blackberry bushes and improving trails, volunteers also removed a large quantity of invasive holly plants from Chadwick Hill and hauled ten bags of trash up from the beach at Pt. Colville. A lot was accomplished in a short time, and visitors were enthusiastic about the activities. A very successful event for the Lopez Community.

Follow the Progress of the Elwha Dam Removal

2011-10-12T09:02:00.000-07:00

Check out the Olympic National Park website for webcam photo as the Elwha dams come down. Great pictures! Here’s the website: http://www.nps.gov/olym/photosmultimedia/elwha-river-webcams.htm

Interview About PNW Six Gill Sharks

2011-09-30T07:01:00.000-07:00

Dr. Chris Harvey-Clark from the University of British Columbia has made a video about new findings on the six gill sharks in our waters and their relationship to the rat fish. This shark is also the preferred meal for the off-shore orcas.

See video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p2aoxQI8mRM

Rare Ginger Seal Rescued

2011-09-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

A very rare Ginger Fur Seal pup was rescued on Tyuleniy Island, Russia, by a photographer who found the pup hiding under some logs. While the pup isn't completely an albino, it does suffer from partial blindness and would not be able to survive on its own.

You can read the full story at: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/technology/2011/09/lonely-ginger-seal-finds-new-home/

National Conservation Area (NCA) Status for BLM Lands: Important Update

2011-09-15T18:26:00.000-07:00

A press release today from U.S. Representative Rick Larson's office in DC announced that Legislation has been introduced into both the House and Senate to create a National Conservation Area to protect in perpetuity the 1000 beautiful and unique acres of Bureau of Land Management lands in the islands. Read the details in the article in the San Juan Islander: http://sanjuanislander.com/ The companion bills will be referred to House and Senate sub-committees, and Larson is hoping they will make their way back to the floor for a vote later in the year. Stay tuned - members of the grass-roots SJI committee that started the ball rolling on this important project have said that there will be a call in the near future for letters to members of the Congressional sub-committees.

Elwha Dam Removal and River Restoration Begins This Weekend.

2011-09-15T18:23:00.000-07:00

From the Olympic National Park website: http://www.nps.gov/olympic/naturescience/elwha-ecosystem-restoration.htm

A full slate of educational activities, entertainment events and more are being planned for Celebrate Elwha! Sept. 15-18 to mark the start of the three-year dam removal phase of the Elwha River Restoration project.

The multi-day restoration festival includes the Elwha River Science Symposium, a commemorative ceremony at the Elwha Dam, a tribal gala dinner, guest speakers, Elwha-inspired artwork and photography and musical performances. Visit celebrateelwha.com for more information.

Fresh Water: How Can We Protect This Critical and Threatened Asset?

2011-09-15T17:03:00.000-07:00

The subject of water has been appearing frequently in the news this year. In addition to the devastation caused by tsunamis, hurricanes, floods, and drought, a number of water-related issues have been on the County's agenda: stormwater runoff in Friday Harbor, the ongoing and often contentious dialog about how to protect wetlands and shorelines, as well as the County's consideration of allowing desalination plants as a primary water source for new homes in the islands, thus opening more waterfront and other critical areas for development that were previously limited by a lack of water. How well do we as citizens and voters understand these various issues and their importance? How can we better educate ourselves?

Here is some suggested reading as a starting point:

Unquenchable: America's Water Crisis and What To Do About It, by Robert Glennon
(He's the author mentioned in the email.)
Water: The Epic Struggle for Wealth, Power and Civilization, by Stephen Solomon
The Big Thirst: The Secret Life and Turbulent Future of Water, by Charles Fishman
Cadillac Desert: The American West and Its Disappearing Water, by Marc Reisner.

We can also stay up to date on proposed policy or legislative changes in the islands, and make our views known to our officials.

A group of Beach Watchers and other Lopez residents have started a discussion group titled: "Watersheds of the Puget Sound," (i.e. the Salish Sea,) that will meet weekly on Lopez until near the end of October. This online course is sponsored by WSU Extension, and is modeled after similar neighborhood-level study circles started by the Northwest Earth Institute. Members of the group will do about 20 pages of online reading during each week, and then meet to discuss the readings and consider what further study or actions they might want to pursue. Additional groups could be formed at any time in the islands - this website gives you all the information needed: http://county.wsu.edu/jefferson/nrs/water/courses/Pages/default.aspx Check it out, and consider forming your own group with neighbors and friends. It's both fun and informative.

What Is Your Vision for the Future for the County's Shorelines?

2011-09-15T16:29:00.000-07:00

You've no doubt heard about the upcoming Shoreline Master Plan workshops to be held on the 3 major islands. Please try to attend one of these important meetings!
San Juan Island: Tue. Sept. 20, Grange, 1-4 pm and 5-8 pm
Orcas: Wed. Sept. 21, Orcas Center, 5-8 pm
Lopez: Thu. Sept. 22, Lopez Community Center, 5-8 pm.

Here are links to more detailed articles on the subject: http://sanjuanislander.com/ and http://www.sanjuanco.com/smp/default.aspx. This is our best opportunity to let the County hear our "Vision" for what we would like our shorelines to be like 25 years from now.

The County would also like us to send shoreline photos that we think represent our hope for the future, and also photos of things we don't want to see more of in the future. Photos should be emailed to: colinm@sanjuanco.com.

How many times as a Beach Watcher have you been asked something like: "Have you watched any good beaches lately?" And in addition to all the research and stewardship projects we do, yes, we also notice what is happening on our beaches. We now have a great opportunity to let the County know what we're seeing, and what we would like to see in the future, by sending photos, and participating in one of the meetings.

Indian Island Fall Planning Meeting

2011-09-02T13:56:00.001-07:00

Mark your calendars for Thursday, September 22nd from 4 to 6 p.m. at the Orcas Island Library. The meeting will cover processing data from Indian Island and planning the fall public information event "Celebrate the Bay" scheduled for November 18th at the Orcas Center. In addition, an update on federal legislation to re-classify Indian Island and other BLM archipelago property as a new National Conservation Area will be provided. After the meeting field work plans for monitoring Cascade Creek will be developed. Anyone interested in this project may wish to remain a few extra minutes.

Cascade Creek Monitoring Framework

2011-09-02T13:39:00.000-07:00

At the Cascade Creek Potluck on August 21st Russel Barsh provided information on the progress of the new bridge being constructed over Cascade Creek and outlined a framework addressing restoration of the area. The framework included: geomorphology, vegetation change, tidal influence, and fish utilization. Russel will meet with anyone interested in the restoration of Cascade Creek after the meeting on September 22nd. (See "Indian Island Fall Planning Meeting" blog for more details.

See The Whale Movie

2011-08-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

This is a link to the movie about Luna, an L Pod whale, who left his family, lived in Nootka Sound, BC, and who died there in 2005. You can buy tickets online for showings in Seattle in early September.

http://www.thewhalemovie.com/

WSU Beach Watcher Get-together on August 9

2011-08-16T18:43:00.000-07:00

Beach Watcher's met last Tuesday at Skagit College on San Juan Island for a light lunch and an informative, interactive talk on the complex geological history of the San Juans by Michael Yeaman, geologist. Beach Watchers from all classes were represented, and Shann Weston posted a list of BWs who had logged more than 100, 500 and 1,000 hours. (Congratulations to Dennis Linden, Geneva Mottet, and Chuck O’Clair in the top category!)

Members of the Beach Watcher Advisory Committee, a very impressive group representing the major environmental organizations in the community, gave updates on their activities and expressed their appreciation for the Beach Watchers volunteers. Among them were Cindy Hansen from the Whale Museum, Russel Barsh from Kwiaht, Fiona Norris from the San Juan Nature Institute, and David Lloyd from the Waldron community, to name just a few.

Shann talked about the business plan currently being developed for WSU Beach Watchers; more information on this will be available in the future. Shann also shared ideas regarding sustaining the San Juan County Beach Watcher program for the future. Obtaining funding in the current economic climate continues to be challenging, and volunteer hours are a very important component of this process. Volunteers are strongly encouraged to post their hours on an ongoing basis, and especially to catch up within the next month or so, so that Shann can submit these impressive numbers in grant applications. If you need any help with the posting process, please contact Susan Muckle at swmuckle@rockisland.com.

Shann reminded everyone that Beach Watchers will again have a booth in the “Green Village” at the San Juan County Fair – contact Shann if you can volunteer.

Thanks to Shann for providing the opportunity to learn more about the work that everyone is doing. Our collective love for our unique marine community shone throughout the meeting. We just wish there had been more time to talk with each other before the ferry called.

Cascade Creek Potluck, August 21st.

2011-08-14T13:47:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar for a pot luck picnic to be held Sunday, August 21st from 2:00 to 5:00 pm at 321 Point Lawrence Road in Olga on Orcas Island. This is an opportunity to hear from Dan Vekved, bridge engineer regarding the construction of the bridge over Cascade Creek and to discuss post construction monitoring of the creek and estuary. Reflections on citizen science and field work at Indian Island are also on the agenda. But as we all know it is really about the food and camaraderie! See you there. For additional information or directions contact: RKinner@gmail.com.

Orca Ecotypes Around the World

2011-08-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

While this article is not new, it does a good job of explaining how scientists are determining whether the various orcas worldwide are in fact all different species. The scientists are looking at what each type eats, hunting methods and differences in markings.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/04/27/science/27whale.html?ref=whalesandwhaling

County Shoreline Visioning Meetings

2011-08-11T14:22:00.000-07:00

How we want our shorelines to be developed in the future will be the topic at these meetings scheduled for all islands. These meetings are part of the Shoreline Master Program update. The schedule is:

Sept. 20, from 1 - 4 p.m., on San Juan Is.-Grange Hall, 152 First St. (Note this meeting will focus on the outer islands).

From 5 - 8 p.m. another meeting will convene to discuss San Juan Island.

Sept. 21, from 5 - 8 p,.m., on Orcas Is., Madrona Room, Orcas Center, 917 Mt. Baker Rd.
Sept. 22, from 5 - 8 p.m., on Lopez Is., Lopez Center for Community and Arts, 204 Village Rd.

For more information call Colin Maycock at 360-370-7573 or email colinm@sanjuanco.com
Click on this link to view all documents including the updated Shoreline Master Program

http://sanjuanco.com/smp/smpdocs.aspx

Orcas Horns at County Fair

2011-08-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

If you have the opportunity, please try to see Orcas Horns perform at the fair on Saturday, August 20, from 7-9 p.m. Steve Alboucq, Nancy's husband (BW Class of 2009), is the leader and one of the trumpet players. This group plays a mix of contemporary jazz, R&B, soul and blues. All band members are fabulous musicians and very entertaining.

Saving a Humpback Whale in the Sea of Cortez

2011-08-09T22:05:00.000-07:00

This is an eight minute video of some people who saved a Humpback entangled in a gill net. It happened on February 14, 2011, in the Sea of Cortez. They went the extra mile when they realized no one else would help the whale.

http://www.koreus.com/video/sauvetage-baleine-filet.html

August 3 Lecture: The Bowhead Whale in the Age of Natural Resource Extraction

2011-07-29T06:01:00.000-07:00

The Whale Museum continues its Research Lecture Series on Wednesday, August 3rd at 7:00pm with PhD candidate Frances Robertson from the Marine Mammal Research Unit at the University of British Columbia. Robertson will discuss her work with the bowhead whale and the impacts of oil and gas industry activities on its behavior and distribution.

Frances Robertson has carried out studies involving marine mammals and human disturbance issues in Canada, Scotland and the US; other research activities have included study of minke whales foraging ecology and photo-id in the Salish Sea, WA. Frances has also spent 5 years working as a free lance marine mammal observer for the seismic survey industry.

The August 3rd lecture is free and open to the public, although donations are encouraged.

August 6 Talk on Natural History of Feathers, San Juan Library

2011-07-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, August 6th at 7:00pm at the San Juan Island Library, there will be a talk by Dr. Thor Hanson, Author of Feathers: The Evolution of a Natural Miracle. Dr. Hanson is a conservation biologist, Switzer Environmental Fellow, and member of the Human Ecosystems Study Group. His first book, The Impenetrable Forest: My Gorilla Years in Uganda, won the 2008 USA Book News Award for nature writing. In Feathers, Hanson details a sweeping natural history, as feathers have been used to fly, protect, attract, and adorn through time and place. Applying the research of paleontologists, ornithologists, biologists, engineers, and even art historians, Hanson asks: What are feathers? How did they evolve? What do they mean to us? This event is co-sponsored by Wolf Hollow, Islands' Oil Spill Association and Griffin Bay Bookstore.

Baby Seal Rescued in Olga

2011-07-24T20:40:00.000-07:00

A call was made to the Marine Mammal Stranding Network about a baby seal nursing from a dingy line at the Olga dock. Volunteers went out periodically to see if they could spot the pup. Yesterday, Greg Bishop, an intern with the Stranding Network, was able to locate the pup and administer fluids. The pup was relocated near Shag Rock which is further from people and closer to adult seals. The hope is that by moving pups closer to adult seals they may get fostered by a lactating female. This practice has been reported quite a lot in scientific literature.

New Indian Island Schedule for July 29-31

2011-07-24T15:18:00.000-07:00

Changes in times for invertebrate surveys (far rocks and meter-squares)and fishing are as follows: Invert surveys to begin Friday at 9:30, July 29th continuing, if necessary, on Saturday; fishing to begin Sunday, July 31st from 11:00 am to 1 pm. Saturday, July 30th outreach at both the Farmers Market and at Indian Island. Indian Island from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm and the Farmers Market beginning at 10:30 am. This is our last big weekend. Hope to see you there.

Indian Island Outreach

2011-07-18T15:49:00.000-07:00

The rainy weather didn't prevent Saturday's Indian Island outreach from being successful. At Indian Island over 200 people were provided information and given insights into the work going on there. The booth at the Orcas farmers market was equally busy throughout the day. A fish tank containing sea stars, crabs and bi-valves was a big hit with the public. Many people stopped by to ask questions, looked at and held some of the beach inhabitants and also enjoyed some very colorful cookie sea stars provided by one of the volunteers. The next outreach will be Friday, July 29 th.

J1 Ruffles & His Son L41 Mega's Legacy

2011-07-15T10:34:00.000-07:00

On July 6 at the Whale Museum, Dr. Astrid Van Ginniken, who works with the Center for Whale Research, discussed the DNA findings of the Southern Residents. Ruffles was identified as the father of K21, Capaccino; K25, Scoter; L41, Mega; L57, Faith; L73, Flash; L74, Sanich; L78, Gaia and L85, Mystery.

Mega was identified as the father of J40, Suttles; J42, Echo; J35, Tahlequah; and K33, Keet. In addition one male, who has been identified as M2, is the father of J11, Blossom and J19, Shachi(making these two full siblings); K12, Sequim; K13, Skagit; and L60, Rascal. Another male identified as M4 is the father of J37, Hy'Shqa; J39, Mako; J41, Eclipse; J28 Polaris; J32, Rhapsody; K14, Lea; and K27, Deadhead. She also noted that there is no direct relationship between K7, Lummi and K11, Georgia, whom were thought to be mother and daughter. Dr. Van Giniken plans to continue the DNA testing on the SRKWs. She also noted that there does not appear to be any mating between first order relatives or full siblings.

She also discussed the viability of the SRKWs, and noted that three matriarchal lines in L pod will disappear as only males remain, while all current matriarchal lines in J and K pods have the ability to continue. Only one-third of the males reach age 25 or older and the average age at death is 35 years for males. Two-thirds of females reach age 40 or older. A group of 55 or 60 individuals is considered to be severly at risk of dying out. So while she has hope that the 87 whales of the Southern Residents will survive, their survival is dependent upon a sustainable supply of Chinook salmon and removing the toxins in the Salish Sea.

Indian Island

2011-07-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, July 13th and Thursday, July 14th Beach Watchers met to assist with bi-valve digs. Beach Watcher volunteers worked hard to dig bi-valves, date them and record finds all with an eye on the incoming tide. Tomorrow, Friday, July 15th Beach Watchers will be fishing and recording data. Saturday outreach workers will be at Indian Island and at the Orcas Island Farmers Market. Displays, books and critters (we hope) will be available for the public to view. Next outreach is

Friday, July 29th.

National Conservation Status for BLM Lands: Your Help Is Needed!

2011-07-10T10:39:00.000-07:00

A grass-roots local steering committee has been hard at work for over a year to obtain “National Conservation Area” (NCA) status for the 1100 acres in the San Juan Islands owned by the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM.) These lands include Patos Island, Turn Point, Iceberg Point and Watmough Bay, as well as many smaller islands, rocks and reefs. NCA status requires an act of Congress, but once obtained, would protect the lands in perpetuity. (Although the Lopez properties currently have some protection within the BLM, it could be eliminated by policy changes, and the majority of the lands have no protection at all.)

The NCA process requires a grass-roots initiative, (the work of the committee,) endorsement by the SJ County Council (obtained earlier this year,) and support of our local Congressman, Rick Larson, who is very enthusiastic about the project. However, there is still much work to be done before actual legislation can be put before Congress.

Currently the greatest need is for San Juan individuals and organizations to write letters of support to Congressman Larson, stating how they use and enjoy the BLM lands, and why they think the NCA status is important. The NCA website: http://www.sanjuanislandsnca.org/home, has much more information, as well as ideas for both written and email letters to Larson’s office. The need is immediate. Legislation has already been drafted, which Larson hopes to introduce this year, but a strong show of local support is critical to its success. Please take a few moments today to check the website and write a short letter!

Good News! "The Whale" Movie to Be Released Soon in U.S.

2011-07-10T10:32:00.000-07:00

Suzanne Chisholm and Mike Parfit, creators of the beautiful documentary film, “The Whale,” have announced that it will be released later this summer in several big American cities – probably starting in New York, Washington D.C., and Seattle. The film, crafted from thousands of hours of footage Suzanne and Mike shot over a period of several years in Nootka Sound, BC, documents the moving story of Luna, a lonely young orca who turned to boaters for companionship and comfort after being separated from his family. Though the story doesn’t have a “happily ever after” ending, it is a beautiful film with an important message.

In May of this year, members of the 2011 Beach Watchers class met with Suzanne and Mike in Sidney, BC. It was an inspiring evening, including a viewing of the film and lots of details of how it was produced and is being marketed. It isn’t easy for an independent documentary to get into theatres in the US, so news of the releases later this summer is heartening. Theatre-showings need to happen before the film can be produced as a DVD.

Suzanne and Mike would greatly appreciate help from supporters in spreading awareness of the film. How? There are lots of suggestions on their website, http://www.thewhalemovie.com/. They also have a facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/thewhalemovie.

New Calf in K Pod!

2011-07-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

The newest member of the Southern Resident Orca community is K44, born to K27, (Deadhead,) and first sighted early in the morning of Wed. July 6, on the West side of San Juan Island. The proud Mom, eager to show off her first calf, lifted her offspring up to the surface to provide onlookers with a good view, (establishing in the process that this one is a boy!)

Lopez Beach Watcher Helps an Injured Eagle

2011-07-10T10:28:00.000-07:00

2011 Beach Watcher Mysti McKeehan and her husband tended an injured eagle on Lopez at the end of June, and are hopeful that their efforts helped the bird to recover. The eagle was discovered by Mysti and other neighbors on a beach south of Otis Perkins Park around July 21. He was lying in the sand, scruffy-looking, and seemed unable to move freely. After further observation and consultation with Julie Knight and Wolf Hollow, it was determined that he could fly adequately, (and did not need to be captured for rehabilitation,) but that his left leg was injured, thus impeding his ability to capture prey and maneuver on land. Julie recommended that Mysti and her husband put out smelt or salmon for him, which they did, much of which the eagle appreciatively ate. (See bottom photo.) Other eagles seemed to be aware of him and perhaps in communication. Though still limping and having little use of the injured leg, the eagle (nicknamed Ollie by Mysti's husband Noel,) gradually gained strength and was flying more. Mysti said they have not seen him now for several days, but hope that is a sign that he has recovered sufficiently to take care of himself.

Check out the fascinating video of the eagle Mysti and her husband have posted on youtube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7rYswh_5tbo.

Beach Watchers Interviewed in This Week’s San Juan Journal

2011-07-10T10:26:00.000-07:00

The July 6 SJ Journal contains an article about Like Kiln volunteers – our well-known and active Beach Watchers Dennis Linden and Shirley Zyph! There is a nice photo of Dennis, along with thoughtful answers from both about the volunteer work they do and why they love it. Some well-deserved publicity!

Annual Pass Now Required to Visit WA State Parks

2011-07-10T10:23:00.000-07:00

There has been some negative publicity about the $30 annual pass now required to visit WA State Parks, but if this new law had not been passed to create much-needed revenue, Lime Kiln and Moran were apparently among the parks slated for closure. You can purchase the "Discover" Pass at the first park you visit this year. You can also buy it on line, though the cost is $5 higher. Check the SP website for details: http://www.discoverpass.wa.gov/ Note that the pass is vehicle-specific, but there is apparently an option to cover multiple vehicles in a household.

News from Indian Island

2011-07-05T13:34:00.000-07:00

First of all, THANK YOU for helping "show the flag" and manage some 800-1000 visitors to the island this past week! The survival and fledging of all three Black Oystercatcher chicks can be taken as a measure of success of our efforts so far this summer. We also have some very cool data. At least three more nudibranch species were observed last month, and our mid-June fishing found the largest proportion of gravid male pipefish we have ever seen.

Unfortunately, our eelgrass survey last week does suggest a gradual decline in inter-tidal (-1.0 feet) eelgrass density over the last three years. We need to flag this for discussion, and pay especially close attention to the eelgrass survey in July 2012. If there is another year of decline, I think we need to bring this to the attention of the community. Sad, but this is, after all, what monitoring is for...

A head's-up about upcoming July activities. The next round of low-tide activities will fast be upon us! July 13 and July 14 we are scheduled for our annual bivalve census. We dug two square meters in 2010 and there was a general feeling that we should aim for a larger 2011 sample, in particular to confirm what appeared to be a lack of recruitment of steamers (Protothaca staminea). I'd like to aim for 10 square meters! That means getting at least THREE teams on the beach to dig and measure clams. A team can be just two people, a shovel, and a data sheet, so we should be able to manage it-- and I will bring two students to help as well. I've also asked the OMSI Science Camp to help with shovelling on July 13, but let's not count on that.

July 15 is fishing. And July 16 is an DOUBLE outreach day. The tide will be low enough around 9 on that to walk out to the island around 11 am to 1 pm, and we also have a booth reserved for the Indian Island MHO at the Farmer's Market (the Stewardship Network space). We can use the booth for show and tell, to distribute a few more of our bookmarks and trifolds, and to recruit more local support and volunteers. Photos and displays, anyone? What shall we show off? And while we should ensure one or two volunteers on the beach for outreach that day, we also need at least a couple of people to staff the booth. I will be available for the beach or the booth or a little of both. Who else would like to give this a whirl?

The late June tides have been even "flatter" than the May and early June tides, so we can (and should) start earlier than I had originally suggested. July 13 was originally scheduled for 10 am, and I think we could get started an hour earlier, digging for bivalves closer to shore. Ditto on July 14, so let's see if we can get underway around 9 am on Wednesday and 9:30 on Thursday, and still work just about 2 hours each day. Fishing July 15, why don't we try to be on the island setting the net by 11 am. And for Saturday outreach and Farmers Market, let's just follow the Farmers Market hours.

Thank you, all, for what continues to be a productive summer of discoveries and (small but real) successes!

Russel.

Indian Island Update

2011-07-03T13:19:00.000-07:00

Friday, July 1 was a busy day. Many wonderful volunteers and lots of visitors to Indian island including many with young children who loved the chance to turn over rocks.

The eel grass count may be done..check with Ellie.

Please note that the best start time for Indian Island is about one half hour before the time scheduled.

In other news, there is now a hotline for calling in algal blooms. The number is 468-4869

(468-ITOX).

Toxic Algal Bloom

2011-07-03T12:30:00.000-07:00

We are seeing a double algal bloom around Orcas Island this week. The visible reddish-brown stuff is mostly Noctiluca which isn't known to be toxic but we are also seeing a lot of Heterosigma mixed in with it.

Heterosigma can kill fish especially captive fish which can not get away from it.

Noctiluca sometimes generates bioluminescence so if you go out on a dark night and disturb it you may see a ghostly glow.

Dr. Vera Trainer from the Marine Biotoxin Group, Northwest Fisheries Science Center in Seattle has come out to the islands to monitor the bloom.

Stranded White-sided Dolphins at Campbell River, BC

2011-07-02T19:21:00.000-07:00

This is a great story and video on the successful efforts by 50-60 people in Campbell River, BC, who responded to save four stranded white-sided dolphins on June 28.

First, read the story: http://www2.canada.com/topics/news/national/story.html?id=5020305

Then see the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5Ap4rNUhes

Octo-Mom Giving Birth in Puget Sound

2011-07-02T19:08:00.000-07:00

Just in case you did not hear/read about Octo-Mom--here is the story/video. You have to see this: http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/fieldnotes/2015374366_video_eight-armed_moms_give_their_all_in_puget_sound.html This video depicts a female octopus' effort to nurture and protect her eggs over a seven month period.

Impending Disaster - Extinction of Some Marine Species

2011-07-01T10:59:00.000-07:00

Here is an interesting article and video from ABC News discussing the possible extinction of some marine species due to a myriad of stresses on our oceans.

http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/marine-species-face-mass-extinction-report/story?id=13893627

Celebrate Granny's Birthday at Lime Kiln Park on July 2

2011-07-01T09:47:00.000-07:00

Come celebrate the estimated 100 year birthday of J2, Granny !!!

The Center for Whale Research is hosting a celebration of the estimated birth year of J2, one of the oldest females in the southern resident killer whale population. Based on J2's apparent age at the inception of the Orca Survey study in 1976, she is estimated to have been born in 1911 making 2011 her 100th year, and although we do not know her exact age she is likely the oldest living whale among J,K, and L pods. This celebration marks 100 years of evolving interaction between humans and killer whales in the ecosystem now known as the Salish Sea.

The event will celebrate the estimated century long life of J2 and will provide more about the obstacles she, and all the SRKWs have faced in their struggle to survive the changing world.

Bring a picnic lunch to the park, and enjoy an afternoon of music by the Kevin Carr Family Band followed by a talk from Ken Balcomb, director of the Center for Whale Research.

There will be children's games and activities provided by Jeff Hogan's Killer Whale Tales. The Salish Sea Association of Marine Naturalists (SSAMN ) will also be hosting an informational booth offering tips and opportunities to foster stewardship of the Salish Sea environment on which the killer whales depend. Additionally, the Center for Whale Research Information Station will be open to provide education about the local killer whales and the Orca Survey project.

J2 100th Birthday!
WHEN: July 2, 2011, 1:00 p.m. to 4 p.m.
WHERE: Lime Kiln Point State Park, San Juan Island
WHO: Hosted by the Center for Whale Research and supported by:

•Kevin Carr Family Band
•Killer Whale Tales - Environmental Science Though Storytelling
•SSAMN - Salish Sea Association of Marine Naturalists
•Orca Network - Connecting whales and people in the Pacific Northwest

Because of limited parking, please consider car pooling or using San Juan Transit.

Saving Luna in Smithsonian Magazine

2011-06-30T15:30:00.001-07:00

Please check out this video and article on Luna in the recent Smithsonian magazine.

http://www.smithsonianmag.com/video/Dont-Touch-the-Whale.html

Puget Sound Starts Here New Campaign Kick Off

2011-06-30T15:24:00.000-07:00

The Puget Sound Partnership is taking aim at "dog doo." Today the Puget Sound Starts Here campaign launched a viral video campaign to raise public awareness about dog waste.

"Dog Doogity" features Martin Luther McCoy, musician and actor, who has collaborated extensively with musicians like The Roots and Cody ChesnuTT and appears as one of the six lead characters in the 2007 Beatles musical Across the Universe in the role of "Jo-Jo," who reflects Jimi Hendrix. Please share with your friends, family and appropriate contacts.

http://pugetsoundstartshere.org/scoop-poop/

Whale Museum Lecture - The Viability of the SRKWs

2011-06-30T15:11:00.000-07:00

The Whale Museum continues its Science Lecture Series on Wednesday, July 6 at 7:00 pm with Dr. Astrid van Ginneken of the Center for Whale Research. Astrid will discuss the future viability of Southern Resident killer whales with regard to matriline structure, paternity, and effects of boats on whales.

Astrid M. van Ginneken, M.D. Ph.D., has been involved in the annual photographic Orca Survey by the Center for Whale Research since 1987. Since she became co-principal investigator in 1994, she set-up methods for collection of behavioral data and designed the Center's research database. This is Astrid's 25th year with the Southern Resident community of orcas and she still continues her field and database work with great enthusiasm.

She is the author of the orca novel “Togetherness is Our Home.”

2011 Salish Sea Ecosystem Conference

2011-06-13T10:54:00.000-07:00

Formerly called the Georgia Basin/Puget Sound Research conference, this conference will be held on October 25-27, 2011, at the Sheraton Wall Centre in Vancouver, BC. The conference focuses on issues pertaing to the health of the Salish Sea. For more information click on their webiste: www.salishseaconference.org

Orcas has a New Online Newsletter Contributor

2011-05-24T15:25:00.000-07:00

Please welcome Shelly Kinner, BW Class of 2011, who will contribute news and happenings from Orcas. If you have something you would like Shelly to post, please email her at rbkinner@gmail.com

Salmon Recovery Board Volunteers Opportunity

2011-05-24T15:19:00.000-07:00

The Salmon Recovery Board has a restoration project at Neck Point on Shaw Island. This will involve the transplanting of vegetation from one site to another on Shaw. The work is scheduled for July 29 and 30. Since the work will be in an intertidal marsh, each volunteer should bring boots, garden gloves, trowel and a shovel. This is a great opportunity to help our salmon.

For more information, contact Tina Wyllie-Echeverria at tinawe@fidalgo.net

Online Newsletter Reading List

2011-05-24T09:38:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for some summer reading, don't forget to check out the reading list at the bottom of the newsletter. New titles have been added.

Biodiversity of Watmough Bay, Lopez

2011-05-24T08:18:00.000-07:00

The San Juan Nature Institute is sponsoring a workshop with scientists from Kwiaht in exploring the biology of Watmough Bay. The workshop is June 20 from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Contact the institute for more information, call 378-3646 or E-mail:

Evolutionary Mechanics of Movement and Communication in the Sea

2011-05-24T08:09:00.000-07:00

The 13th annual Paul Illg Lecture series will host Dr. Sheila Patek on June 21 at 7 p.m. at the San Juan Community Theater.

From mantis shrimp hammers to spiny lobster violins, the same underlying principles guide the interplay between evolutionary variation and the rules of physics. Sheila Patek's research program focuses on the biomechanics, behavior and evolution of fast movements and underwater acoustics. Patek's research probes the evolutionary correlations between morphological and acoustic variation and examines the role of stick-slip friction in the diversification of this system. Through the integration of biomechanical analyses and phylogenetic comparative approaches, these systems offer new insights into the fascinating mechanics of extreme predatory movements and acoustic defenses in the marine environment.

Puget Sound Oil Pollution Less Than Previously Estimated

2011-05-24T07:50:00.000-07:00

A new report shows Puget Sound oil pollution is far less than previously estimated. The third and final phase of a multi-year effort to determine which toxic chemicals reach Puget Sound's waters, how the chemicals get there and where they come from is now available from the Washington Department of Ecology. The new report shows that oil and other chemicals contribute far less pollution in the sound than earlier reports indicated. You can view the report at http://www.ecy.wa.gov/biblio/1103010.html