Upcoming Events Page for WSU Whatcom County Beach Watchers

2010-02-19T12:19:00.000-08:00

Seakayaking from Mountains to Ocean:
Reflections on Watershed Ecology in the Washington Pacific Northwest
with Dan Baharav
Tuesday, February 23, 7:00pm
Village Books, 1200 Eleventh Street, Bellingham

Presentation Includes Slide Show.
This book explores the watershed and urban ecologies of the Northern Cascades, the Olympic Peninsula, and the Olympic Coast waterways on both sides of Interstate 5, a major artery of industrial-urban growth, as the author sea kayaks the lakes, rivers, estuaries, deltas, bays and inlets coursing into the Puget Sound and into the Pacific Ocean.

Dan Baharav is an avid outdoorsman traveling the Pacific Ocean waterways in his sea kayak. He holds a Ph.D. in Zoology and Ecology and for the last forty years he has held both academic and consulting posts. His focus is on applying contemporary ecological theories to multi-purpose use of natural resources. Currently, he resides in Bellingham.

Ocean Acidification Presentation
Thursday, March 4, 6 – 7 pm
322 N. Commercial Street
2nd floor

On March 4, the Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee will host a presentation on ocean acidification and its effects on Puget Sound. The event is free and open to the general public.

The speaker is Dr. M. Brady Olson of Western Washington University.
Ocean acidification is the decline in pH of the world’s oceans, due to the uptake of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. The change in ocean chemistry is having profound effects on whether organisms such as clams, oysters, crabs, and coral are able to make shells, which affects both their survival as well as the rest of the food web.

Dr. Olson received his Ph.D. in biological oceanography from the University of Washington in 2006. He is currently an instructor in Western Washington University's Biology Department, and a marine scientist at WWU's Shannon Point Marine Center. Dr. Olson and his colleagues just received a $557,000 National Science Foundation grant to study how changing climate, specifically rising carbon dioxide, will affect plankton food web ecology and, in turn, its effects on the overall marine food web.

For more information, contact Whatcom County Public Works at 360-676-6876.

Renewal
a documentary about faith-based communities
and their fight to save the environment
Tuesday, March 9th 6:00pm
RE Sources' Sustainable Living Center,
2309 Meridian Street, Bellingham

According to the producers, " 'Renewal' is the first feature-length documentary film to capture the vitality and diversity of today's religious-environmental activists. From within their Christian, Jewish, Buddhist and Muslim traditions, Americans are becoming caretakers of the Earth.

With great courage, these women and men are re-examining what it means to be human and how we live on this planet. Their stories of combating global warming and the devastation of mountaintop removal, of promoting food security, environmental justice, recycling, land preservation, and of teaching love and respect for life on Earth are the heart of this film."

Stay after the film to hear about RE Sources' own be cool program, and learn about how you or your congregation can start combating climate change!

Our Underwater Neighborhood: A Video Tour
Thursday, March 18, 2010
7 – 9 pm Whatcom County Council Chambers

Volunteer help wanted!

What do these have in common: a 9 foot tall mermaid, the seasons below the surface of Puget Sound, underwater Audubon-like fish counts, derelict fishing gear, a host of creatures that look like they’re from another planet, and student-built robots scooting around underwater?
Answer: you don’t get to see these unless you spend some time underwater -- or unless a diver with a camera brings images of these to the surface.

Underwater videographer John F. Williams will be bringing excerpts from his TV series SEA-Inside: Pacific Northwest to Bellingham, along with a display of underwater photos and an audience-participation discussion about how art, science, education, and recreation are involved in protecting and preserving the health of Puget Sound. Why are those offshore critters important to us? How are we important to them?

SEA-Inside: Pacific Northwest won three awards from Bainbridge Island TV: "Best New Series" (2006), "Best Use of Technology" (2006), and "Best Educational Series" (2007). It also won a national award for "Best Magazine Show" from the Alliance for Community Media in 2009.
Beach Watchers is partnering with the Northwest Straits Initiative, Sea Grant, and the Marine Resources Committee to bring this great program to Bellingham.

If you can help promote this great show via posters, flyers, or announcements, please let me know! Cheryl 676-6736

Whatcom Conservation District's
17th Annual Native Plant Sale and Expo
Saturday, March 20, 2010 9am-4pm
Open sale On the campus of Whatcom Community College

The purpose of the WCD’s annual plant sale is to promote the stewardship and conservation of our natural resources. The plants sold at this sale are “conservation grade”, which means they are graded on their ability to survive, not on their ornamental value. Seedling plants are not large (generally between 10” and 24” tall), so your order will fit in the trunk or back seat of our car. We will have bags and packing materials available at the sale, or feel free to bring your own.
Pre-Order deadline

Planting native trees and shrubs can provide many positive benefits to your property and the natural environment such as improved water quality, enhanced fish and wildlife habitat, reduction of wind and soil erosion, cleaner air, reduction of energy costs, and beautification of your property! Additionally, proceeds from the plant sale support the WCD’s conservation education programs

Pre-orders must be received at the WCD office by Friday March 5, 2009

Pre-order pick ups Friday, March 19th 9am-3:30pm on the campus of Whatcom Community College

To learn more: http://www.whatcomcd.org/PlantSale/PlantSale.html

Beach Walk
Whatcom Land Trust
Saturday June 12th, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at Marine Park in Fairhaven

Beach Naturalist help wanted.

The Whatcom Land Trust will be conducting a beach walk on Sat., June 12th. It’s a -2.2 tide at 11:30 am.

The event will kick off their summer environmental education program, the Junior Stewards. (I’ll be handing out booklets and getting people’s email addresses. Other than that, it will just be time to explore the beach at low tide.)

I won’t be coordinating at that time so if you are at all interested, please call Connie Clement at the number below to put yourself on her contact list.

Connie Clement
Whatcom Land Trust: Preserving the Nature of Whatcom County
(360) 650-9470

Upcoming Events February

2010-02-03T14:08:00.000-08:00

Poisoned Waters
Tuesday, February 9th
6:00pm
RE Sources' Sustainable Living Center,
2309 Meridian Street, Bellingham

"Poisoned Waters" is a shocking investigation of America's great waterways with a particular focus on Puget Sound. Learn why the Duamish river is in peril, how the Swinomish removed a dam in the Skagit River delta, and how everyday citizens are fighting for clean water.

North Sound Baykeeper, Wendy Steffensen, will compliment the film with a brief overview of our own local waters and what the Baykeeper program is doing to help them.

Beach Watchers Walkabout
Thursday, February 11
10:00 am
Hovander Homestead Park
5299 Nielson Avenue, Ferndale

Finally! I've been itching to get out and hike in good company for awhile, now. I hope many of you are also inclined!

I propose we meet at the big red barn in Hovander Homestead Park at 10 am and then we can decide whether we want to hike the always wonderful Tenant Lake loop, or if we want to take a slightly longer walk along the Nooksack River Dike trail. The County Parks website says that the Nooksack trail has some flood damage but is passable.

If you haven't joined us for one of these yet, I'll tell you it's a great way to connect with each other, stretch your legs, and enjoy our beautiful trails at the same time.

I hope to see you!

Seakayaking from Mountains to Ocean:
Reflections on Watershed Ecology in the Washington Pacific Northwest
with Dan Baharav
Tuesday, February 23
7:00pm
Village Books
1200 Eleventh Street, Bellingham

Presentation Includes Slide Show.
This book explores the watershed and urban ecologies of the Northern Cascades, the Olympic Peninsula, and the Olympic Coast waterways on both sides of Interstate 5, a major artery of industrial-urban growth, as the author sea kayaks the lakes, rivers, estuaries, deltas, bays and inlets coursing into the Puget Sound and into the Pacific Ocean.

Dan Baharav is an avid outdoorsman traveling the Pacific Ocean waterways in his sea kayak. He holds a Ph.D. in Zoology and Ecology and for the last forty years he has held both academic and consulting posts. His focus is on applying contemporary ecological theories to multi-purpose use of natural resources. Currently, he resides in Bellingham.

"Renewal"
a documentary about faith-based communities
and their fight to save the environment
Tuesday, March 9th
6:00pm
RE Sources' Sustainable Living Center,
2309 Meridian Street, Bellingham

According to the producers, " 'Renewal' is the first feature-length documentary film to capture the vitality and diversity of today's religious-environmental activists. From within their Christian, Jewish, Buddhist and Muslim traditions, Americans are becoming caretakers of the Earth.

With great courage, these women and men are re-examining what it means to be human and how we live on this planet. Their stories of combating global warming and the devastation of mountaintop removal, of promoting food security, environmental justice, recycling, land preservation, and of teaching love and respect for life on Earth are the heart of this film."

Stay after the film to hear about RE Sources' own be cool program, and learn about how you or your congregation can start combating climate change!

Upcoming Events December 2010

2009-12-14T13:18:00.000-08:00

Poisoned Waters at Padilla Bay
Thursday December 17, 2009, 1pm
Padilla Bay Reserve
10441 Bay View-Edison Road
Mount Vernon

A few months ago a show called Poisoned Waters was aired on a PBS TV program called Frontline. It included trouble in Chesapeake Bay and Puget Sound from excess nutrients and toxic waste and it was quite good.

They then produced a DVD by the same title that focuses only on Puget Sound. It will be shown at the Padilla Bay Reserve at 1:00 on Thursday December 17. The Padilla Bay Reserve will also soon receive a copy of the original program (both Chesapeake and Puget) that is divided into segments with discussion questions that is being distributed by EPA (via the Puget Sound Partnership).

For more information, call Glen "Alex" Alexander at 360-428-1070 or write alex@padillabay.gov

Designing Healthy Coastal Ecosystems
SeaDoc Society's Free E-Course
Begins January 4, 2010

Wondering what cutting edge science has to say about building healthy ecosystems for humans and wildlife?

Take the SeaDoc Society's free month-long e-course on designing healthy coastal ecosystems. You'll get an informative email every three days, each covering one of the ten ecological principles that provide a big picture view of how to create and safeguard a healthy ecosystem. You’ll also be able to use on-line forums to discuss how to most effectively teach these principles.

For more information or to sign up, visit http://www.seadocsociety.org/courses/topten

"Storming The Sound" Workshop
January 29, 9am to 4pm
Maple Hall, La Conner

Storming the Sound is a regional gathering of environmental educators in the K-12 schools (public, private or homeschool), organizations for sharing environmental resources and students interested in pursuing a career in environmental education. Beach Watchers volunteers are always welcome!

Since the year 2000, a "North" Storming the Sound has been taking place each year in La Conner. This one-day workshop is co-organized by People For Puget Sound, Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve and the National Park Service.

Storming the Sound presents an opportunity to attend a wide variety of planned sessions organized by leaders of our regional environmental education community. Past workshops topics have included climate change, working with interns, grant-writing and web-based environmental education.

Storming the Sound attendees also get to hear inspiring speakers and meet representatives from over 30 sponsoring organizations who bring with them environmental resources and valuable information to share.

TO REGISTER: Registration is free, but we request a $10 donation at the door to help cover costs of the event. Register online: here
See the "North" Storming the Sound 2009 program: http://www.padillabay.gov/storming/.

For information, contact Ann Butler, (360) 754-9177.

Whatcom Conservation District's
17th Annual Native Plant Sale and Expo
Saturday, March 20, 2010 9am-4pm

Open sale On the campus of Whatcom Community College

The purpose of the WCD’s annual plant sale is to promote the stewardship and conservation of our natural resources. The plants sold at this sale are “conservation grade”, which means they are graded on their ability to survive, not on their ornamental value. Seedling plants are not large (generally between 10” and 24” tall), so your order will fit in the trunk or back seat of our car. We will have bags and packing materials available at the sale, or feel free to bring your own.
Pre-Order deadline

Planting native trees and shrubs can provide many positive benefits to your property and the natural environment such as improved water quality, enhanced fish and wildlife habitat, reduction of wind and soil erosion, cleaner air, reduction of energy costs, and beautification of your property! Additionally, proceeds from the plant sale support the WCD’s conservation education programs

Pre-orders must be received at the WCD office by Friday March 5, 2009

Pre-order pick ups Friday, March 19th 9am-3:30pm on the campus of Whatcom Community College

To learn more: http://www.whatcomcd.org/PlantSale/PlantSale.html

2009-11-24T17:29:00.000-08:00

Cecile Andrews, Less is More
Tuesday, December 1, 7pm
Village Books
1200 Eleventh Street
Bellingham

Just in time for the holidays, Cecile Andrews offers some perspective. Less is More is a compelling collection of essays by people who have been writing about Simplicity for decades –including Bill McKibben, Duane Elgin, Juliet Schor, Ernest Callenbach, John de Graaf, and more. They bring us a new vision of Less: less stuff, less work, less stress, less debt. A life with Less becomes a life of More: more time, more satisfaction, more balance, more security.

Rain Garden presentation to the Birchwood Garden Club
Wednesday, December 2 7pm
Whatcom Museum, Old City Hall
121 Prospect Street
Bellingham

Richard Nevels and I will be promoting rain gardens to the Birchwood Garden Club. Join us if you want to learn or lend a hand!

Elizabeth Grossman, Chasing Molecules: Poisonous Products, Human Health, & the Promise of Green Chemistry
Thursday, December 3, 7pm
Village Books
1200 Eleventh Street
Bellingham

The revolutionary field of green chemistry is introducing products that are “benign by design,” developing manufacturing processes that consider health impacts at every stage, and creating new compounds that mimic rather than disrupt natural systems.

Green Drinks
Wednesday, December 2, 5-8pm
Sustainable Living Center
2309 Meridian Street Bellingham

Green Drinks is an organic networking session that started in London, England. Like-minded individuals meet every month to catch-up and make connections.

Beach Watchers Presentation to the Newcomers Club
Wednesday, January 20, 12 noon
Bellingham Country Club
3729 Meridian Street
Bellingham

I'll be talking to the newcomers about the Beach Watchers program and all the great work you do and all of the fun we have. If you would like to share your story and perhaps recruit new people to your cause, please come join me!

2009-09-24T15:02:00.000-07:00

Beach Watchers Walk and Talk
Friday September 25, 10am to 12 noon
Lake Padden Trail, meet at the playground in Lake Padden Park

I look forward to catching up with you as we enjoy beautiful Lake Padden.

Puget Sound Through an Artist's Eye
September 29, 7-9 pm
Bellingham Public Library

Tony Angell will be reading from his new book (Puget Sound Through an Artist’s Eye) that captures his art and the natural history of Puget Sound. Copies of the book that will be available for $35 plus sales tax and will be signed by the author. For more information go to: http://pugetsound.org/events/Angell

COASST Marine Bird Surveys Training
Saturday October 3, 2009, 12:30 – 4:30 pm
Sustainable Living Center
2309 Meridian Street

Beachwatchers and birders wanted. Become a volunteer of The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) and help make a difference for the environment by monitoring a stretch of beach on a monthly basis and collecting data on beach-cast seabird carcasses. Data collected helps address important marine conservation issues and protect marine resources.

For more information about the training call 733-8307 or email Wendy Steffenson at waters@re-sources.org or Doug Stark at DougS@re-sources.org.

Saving Luna
October 15, 6:30 PM
at the Pickford Cinema
1416 Cornwall Ave., 360.647.1300

What do you do if a little wild whale tries to be your friend? Saving Luna is the story of the baby orca whale who was left behind by his pod in Nootka Sound, BC, and his clever and heartbreaking ways of creating connections with the human residents of the area. Winner of 24 international awards. www.savingluna.com

Built Green Expo
Saturday October 17, 10 am - 5 pm
1650 Baker Creek Place
Bellingham

Join your fellow Beach Watchers as we share our knowledge and enthusiasm about rain gardens and test well-water for nitrates. The Built Green Expo is always filled with interesting information and green products to explore. This year, WSU Extension will be hosting many educational programs as part of the event. Details to follow!

A Sea Change
Thursday, Nov 5 Only!
7 pm at the Pickford Theater
FREE. $5 donation suggested

Imagine a world without fish. A powerful new film on climate change and the oceans proposes just that. A Sea Change is the first documentary about ocean acidification, the underbelly of climate change, a little–known but potentially devastating threat to ocean life. A Sea Change has played to sell–out crowds at major film festivals in Washington, DC, San Francisco and Seattle in 2009.

Dr. Jennifer Hoffman, Senior Scientist with EcoAdapt, will provide closing remarks and answer questions following the screening.

2009-08-12T14:36:00.000-07:00

Chuckanut Bay Days
Saturday, August 29, 9 am to noon &
Saturday, September 19, 9 am to noon
The end of Fairhaven Avenue in Bellingham

Join the Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee, Beach Naturalists, and your fellow Beach Watchers on the beach at Mud Bay and learn about this beautiful area and important habitat. The Chuckanut Marsh is the highest quality salt marsh in all of Bellingham. The area provides critical habitat for heron, eagles, osprey, red legged frog, red fox, western tanager, kingfisher, chum, coho, steelhead, cutthroat and salamanders, clams, endangered bull trout, chinook salmon and more!

Volunteers will be exploring and answering questions about the clams and other critters, marvels of the marsh, fish facts, the historic and current water quality and the exciting proposal to open the marsh to fish and improve the area.

Parking is very limited so carpool, bike or hike (carefully!) from the North Chuckanut Trailhead or Arroyo Park.

RSVP by August 27 for the first event, by September 17 for the second. Hope to see you there!

Inside Smart Trips
A presentation with Susan Horst of Smart Trips and Maureen McCarthy of Whatcom Transportation Authority
Wednesday, August 26th
6:00pm - 7:00pm
Sustainable Living Center, 2309 Meridian Street

Now completing its third year, our locally-grown Smart Trips program has over 10,000 participants. Together they've logged nearly 20 million "miles not driven." Learn how the program continues to evolve, and discover recent data revealing Whatcom County's richest opportunities for turning more trips into Smart Trips.

More information contact Megan Artz at MeganA@re-sources.org

Shoals and Shores of Chuckanut Bay
Thursday September 3, 2009, 6:15 pm to 7:15 pm
Presentation for the Marine Resources Committee at 322 N. Commercial Street

Join Bellingham Greenway's program coordinator and local historian Tim Wahl for a fascinating look at the history of the Chuckanut Bay area and Woodstock Farm.

One Back Yard at a Time
Video Stream Workshop - Coming to a computer near you!
September 15, 2009 – 9:00 am to 11:30 am (PDT)
RSVP to Cheryl Lovato Niles or Sue Blake 676-6736

Want to do something ‘green’ and good for the environment, as well as beautiful?
Does rainwater run off your property into the street?
Does your neighbor’s rainwater run onto your property?
What is a rain garden?
How big does a rain garden need to be?
What plants should be included in a rain garden?
Why does that house have plants growing on the roof?

These are just a few of the questions we will answer in the September 15 th broadcast of Stormwater Management: One Backyard at a Time! The WSU Video team toured Whidbey Island, Washington, Bend, Oregon, and Ketchum/Sun Valley Idaho to see what home and business owners, developers, city engineers and mayors are initiating to curb the pollution running to the surface and ground waters. Examples of Best Management Practices being implemented in the three distinct climates of the case studies give a well rounded illustration of the various methods available.

International Coastal Cleanup
September 19th

Help rid our beaches of unwanted waste and debris!

On Saturday, September 19th, RE Sources is coordinating a Puget Sound-wide beach cleanup. All debris will be collected and tallied with other cleanups across the state, nation, and world.

To sign up for the cleanup, click here or contact
Lisa Friend with RE Sources at Recycle@re-sources.org if you have questions.

July 2009

2009-06-26T14:52:00.000-07:00

Sustainable Connections Home & Landscape Tour
Saturday June 27 & Sunday June 28, 10:00 am-5:00 pm both days
Locations throughout Whatcom County, WA
Info Line: 360-647-7093 x108
http://www.sconnect.org/greenbuilding/events

The Seventh Annual Imagine This! Home and Landscape Tour features the BEST in natural, eco-friendly, creative and cost-effective homes and landscapes & the businesses that help create them! Features for this years tour include:

Green roofs
Creative use of re-cycled building materials
LEED for Homes
Onsite rain barrel demonstrations
Natural, low maintenance, low cost landscapes
Renewable/solar energy
Onsite rain barrel workshop

Tickets purchased online can be picked-up during the Tour at the Sustainable Connections office (1701 Ellis St. Ste. 221). 10am-5pm June 27th & 28th.

Green Drinks Bellingham
Returns to its roots by visiting Boundary Bay's outdoor beer garden. Make it a double-hitter and stay for "Yogoman's Wild Rumpus" with music and hula hoops starting at 8pm!
Wednesday, July 1st, 5:00pm-7:00pm
Boundary Bay beer garden, 1107 Railroad Ave., Bellingham
Sponsored by RE Sources for Sustainable Communities

Marine Resources Committee Meeting
July 2, 2009
6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Civic Center, 322 N. Commercial Street, 2 nd Floor Conference Room

Brian Bingham of WWU will present findings from a baseline biological and physical monitoring project at Cliffside Beach. Linda Lyshall will give an update from the Puget Sound Partnership, and Keats Garman will present on a potential eelgrass monitoring project in Bellingham Bay. As always, the public is welcome and encouraged to attend.

Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) in the Northwest: Climate change,energy and the movement against new fossil fuel imports
Tuesday, July 7th, 7:00pm
Sustainable Living Center 2309 Meridian Street

Join Dan Serres, Conservation Director of the Columbia Riverkeeper to screen the film, "Crossroads on the Columbia," and discuss the details of proposed LNG terminals in Washington State.

For more information, contact Wendy Steffensen, the North Sound Baykeeper, at waters@re-sources.org.

Celebrate with COSEE - Ocean Learning Communities and the Seattle Aquarium Beach Naturalist Program!
August 4th, 2009, 6:30 pm- 9:30 pm
Seattle Aquarium Great Hall and Life on the Edge exhibit

For Marine Program Staff and Volunteers, Ocean Scientists (We are sorry we will not be able to accommodate extra guests/family members at this event).

View current Ocean Science Research and Learning Science posters and talk to the scientists.

Mingle with other Marine Program Volunteers and Staff and Ocean Scientists and Educators
Dinner will be served
Scientist Speaker – TBA on ocean/marine related topic
Complete a brief evaluation of the evening
The infamous COSEE-OLC Raffle!
Stay tuned for information on how to reserve a space for the 4th!

Save the Date!
One Back Yard at a Time
Video Stream Workshop - Coming to a computer near you!
September 15, 2009 – 9:00 am to 11:30 am (PDT)
Location TBD

Want to do something ‘green’ and good for the environment, as well as beautiful?
Does rainwater run off your property into the street?
Does your neighbor’s rainwater run onto your property?
What is a rain garden?
How big does a rain garden need to be?
What plants should be included in a rain garden?
Why does that house have plants growing on the roof?

These are just a few of the questions we will answer in the September 15 th broadcast of Stormwater Management: One Backyard at a Time! The WSU Video team toured Whidbey Island, Washington, Bend, Oregon, and Ketchum/Sun Valley Idaho to see what home and business owners, developers, city engineers and mayors are initiating to curb the pollution running to the surface and ground waters. Examples of Best Management Practices being implemented in the three distinct climates of the case studies give a well rounded illustration of the various methods available.

2009-05-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

Green Drinks

Green Drinks Bellingham gears up for summer at the Sustainable Living Center where we'll have Boundary Bay beer, wine, and appetizers by Market Street Catering. Bring a friend or two and meet your green community!

Remember to bring your own drinking vessel to reduce waste at this event. We will have some reusable or compostable cups available but best not to count on our limited supply.

What: Green Drinks Bellingham

When: Wednesday, June 3rd

Time: 5:00pm-8:00pm

Where: RE Sources' Sustainable Living Center, 2309 Meridian Street, above the RE Store. (Entrance via stairs in the back parking lot.)

Parking: Please park on the street if arriving before 6pm as the parking lot is for RE Store customers only. Better yet, ride your bike, walk, or take the bus.

Admission: always free

Whatcom Marine Mammal Stranding Network Presentation

Thursday, June 4, 6pm - 7pm

322 N. Commercial Street

Join the Marine Resources Committee to hear Mariann Carrasco describe the Marine Mammal Stranding Network, recent strandings, and how to get invovled. Marine Resource Committee Meetings are always open to the public.

Salmon at the Bay

June 13th, 2009

Boundary Bay Brewery, 1107 Railroad Avenue, Bellingham

Bring your friends and family to share in the celebration of salmon, featuring local artists, local musicians, and local food. All event and art auction proceeds benefit NSEA programs to restore sustainable wild salmon runs in Whatcom County. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door. The festivities will also continue into the evening with a late show by Lucky Brown and the Funk Revolution, a six-piece funk and soul dance band for those over 21.

May 2009

2009-05-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

Marine Mammal Stranding Network Training
Saturday May 16, 10am-1pm
WSU Extension Office 1000 N. Forest Street

To respond to marine mammal strandings, volunteer stranding networks were established in all coastal states and are authorized through Letters of Authority from the NMFS regional offices. Through a National Coordinator and five regional coordinators, NMFS oversees, coordinates, and authorizes these activities and provides training to personnel.

Learn more about the network and how to get involved.
________________________________________

Blue Thumb Workshop
Saturday May 16, 10am - 2:30pm
Blaine Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive, Blaine

Carol Williams, Port of Bellingham
Award winning landscape architect presents beautiful choices for coastal gardens

David Dopps - Landscaper
Invite wildlife into your world by creating backyard habitat

Colleen Burrows – WSU Extension
Control common pests with non-toxic methods

James Mayfield - Master Composter/Recycler Volunteer
Learn how to make a rain barrel

$10 per person, $7 for Shore Stewards
Includes Lunch
Free to Beach Watchers if you help out!

Shoreline Tour with Beach Naturalists: Tideflat Treasures and Tribulations
Saturday, May 23, 10-11:30 am & Sunday, June 7, 10-11:30 am, Birch Bay State Park
Saturday, June 20, 10-11:30 am (also at Semiahmoo County Park)
Explore the shore for buried treasures and other biological wonders! Embarking from the wildlife theater at Birch Bay State Park, we’ll trek down the watershed (a short walk), pausing along the way to reveal some hidden dangers to our bay and to appreciate what people in our community are doing to protect it. Down on the tideflats, we’ll dig for treasured clams and seek out other intertidal wonders with roving volunteer Beach Naturalists.

On-the-beach tours are scheduled from 10-11:30 on the dates below, with volunteer Beach Naturalists continuing explorations until 1pm.

For more information:
Beach Naturalists, a program of RE Sources for Sustainable Communities: www.re-sources.org/beachnaturalist.htm or contact Doug Stark at RE Sources, 733-8307, or dougs@re-sources.org.

Grand Opening of Point Whitehorn Park
Monday, May 25th (Memorial Day)
11:00am – 1:30pm

The official opening of this beautiful park is an event not to be missed! The ceremonies will begin at 11:00 with a brief presentation by County Executive Pete Kremen and representatives of Whatcom Land Trust. The group will then enjoy the ¾-mile trail through the wooded wetlands to the scenic overlooks and down to the beach.

Beach Watchers will teach wetland wonders to visitors along the way.

A -2.8 tide will allow visitors to experience the sea life that is often hidden from view. Beach Watcher and Beach Naturalist volunteers will be available to provide information on that sea life. This is an event the whole family will enjoy!

April 2009 Upcoming Events and Opportunities

2009-04-01T15:04:00.000-07:00

On-Site Sewer Operations and Maintenance Program &
Bellingham Bay Seismic Hazards
Thursday April 2, 6:15 & 7:15 pm
Whatcom Marine Resources Committee Meeting, 322 N. Commercial Street, Bellingham

Two guest speakers will be presenting at the Marine Resource Committee meeting. As always, the public is welcome and encouraged to attend.

At 6:15 pm, John Wolpers from the Whatcom County Health Department will talk about on-site sewer operations and maintenance programs administered by the County – this topic has tremendous implications for water quality.

At 7:15 pm, Bob Mitchell from WWU will present on Bellingham Bay waterfront seismic hazards

Marine Invasive Species Monitoring (MISM)
Monday April 13, 6 to 9 pm
322 N. Commercial Street on the second floor

Ann Eissenger wildlife biologist with Nahkeeta Northwest will explain the threat of marine invasive species, train us in monitoring techniques and introduce the MISM program.

The Puget Sound Marine Invasive Species Volunteer Monitoring Program (MISM) is a new citizen-science shoreline monitoring effort – targeting 32 non-native marine and estuarine organisms. The purpose of the program is to identify the distribution of selected non-native species and provide early detection for high-risk invaders.

You are all welcome to join us for this Beach Watchers training session or any others you wish to brush up on. I sent out a course agenda earlier this month to everyone. Please just let me know when you would like to come.

Lily Point - A Guided Exploration
Saturday April 18, 10:00 am
Meet at the Point Roberts Cemetery at the east end of APA Rd.
Point Roberts, Washington

Join experts from Whatcom Land Trust and Whatcom County Parks as they take us through a guided exploration of the landscape, marine life, flora and fauna of the diverse and unique Lily Point. Guides will provide insight into the past and highlights for the future.

If you haven't been yet - Lily Point includes high-bank waterfront which encompasses a 200-foot sandy cliff and stunning views of Boundary Bay, Mount Baker and the Strait of Georgia. The mature forest is home to big-leaf maple, Douglas fir and red alder trees. Residents include sea stars, seaweed, Pacific herring, Chinook salmon, orcas, bald eagles, great blue heron and marbled murrelet.

Attendees should please remember to bring proper identification to pass through the Canadian-US Border crossing.

For more information or to volunteer, call:
Samantha 604.838.7956
Linda 360.945.0812

HAZWOPER Training
Saturday April 18, 8am - 5pm
Marine Spill Response Corporation Office, 1330 Industry Street, #110, Everett WA

This class is intended primarily for those individuals who are interested in assisting with oiled wildlife rescue efforts in the event of an oil spill. This one day training is primarily designed to provide you with the skills needed to recognize and react in protecting yourself to the hazards that are associated with an oil spill event.

Registration - Please contact Andy Carlson at andy.carlson@dfw.wa.gov or 360-902-8125 at the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife by April 10, 2009.
There is no charge for this class, but pre-registration is required. Lunch is not included.

Gooseberry Point Beach Clean-Up and Explorations
Sunday April 19, 10am Beach Clean-up, 11am Guided Beach Walk
The beach across from 2562 Lummi View Drive, next to the fish dock - Gooseberry Point

Join fellow Beach Watchers for a guided beach exploration for the Gooseberry Point neighborhood. If you want to lend a hand cleaning up the beach, gloves and bags will be provided. Coffee and muffins provided by Starbucks.

Ecology of the Salish Sea Nearshore
Tuesday April 21, 7:30 - 9:00pm, Downtown Bellingham Library (downstairs)
For questions contact Norm Neilsen:norm@wakekayak.org

Chris Fairbanks will explain the physical and biological characteristics of our region’s rich marine nearshore environment and the natural processes that maintain the nearshore habitat. Chris Fairbanks is a consultant in fisheries, marine, and estuarine sciences. He is a very knowledgeable and personable guy - this should be good!

Shoreline Management and Stabilization Using Vegetation
Thursday, April 23, 9am-4pm
Seattle, WA $60 lunch included

This one-day intensive workshop is geared toward local shoreline planners, permitters, consultants, and state agency staff. The workshop focuses on the vegetation component in shoreline mitigation plans, and provides you with the tools and information to effectively review and evaluate shoreline impact mitigation proposals using native vegetation.

For more information and to register, please visit: http://www.coastaltraining-wa.org.

Blue Thumb Workshop
Saturday May 16, 10am - 2:30pm
Blaine Boating Center, 235 Marine Drive, Blaine

Carol Williams, Port of Bellingham
Award winning landscape architect presents beautiful choices for coastal gardens

David Dopps - Landscaper
Invite wildlife into your world by creating backyard habitat

Colleen Burrows – WSU Extension
Control common pests with non-toxic methods

James Mayfield - Master Composter/Recycler Volunteer
Learn how to make a rain barrel

$10 per person, $7 for Shore Stewards
Includes Lunch
Free to Beach Watchers if you help out!

February 2009 Upcoming Events & Opportunities

2009-01-29T12:07:00.000-08:00

Researcher speaks on Puget Sound Circulation and Nearshore Restoration
February 5, 7-8pm
322 N. Commercial Street

The Whatcom County Marine Resources Committee will host a presentation on a Puget Sound computer model that could assist with nearshore and estuary restoration in Whatcom County. The event is free and open to the general public.

The speaker is Dr. Tarang Khangaonkar, a researcher who leads the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory’s coastal and watershed computer modeling groups. He will present on one of his current projects, a high-resolution circulation model of Puget Sound that has been developed specifically to help improve restoration projects in estuaries and nearshore areas. The model integrates flooding, water quality, fish passage, tidal exchange, sediment movement, and other issues, providing a better understanding of what might happen if a given restoration project takes place. The presentation will include an overview of the model, as well as examples of restoration projects where the model has been used.

Dr. Khangaonkar has 18 years of experience with models focusing on coastal circulation patterns, the movement of toxics and other pollutants in water bodies, and related topics.

For more information, contact Bert Rubash, Marine Resources Committee, at 360-733-5640, or Whatcom County Public Works at 360-676-6876.

Evening Beach Walk at Semiahmoo Park
Friday, February 6, 2009
7:00 PM-9:00 PM
Free, donations appreciated

Enjoy an exciting opportunity to scout out the rich night life of our shoreline Friday, February 6th from 7:00 - 9:00pm at Whatcom County’s Semiahmoo Park near Blaine. Guided by Beach Naturalists, biologists and other creature experts, the group will wander among the magical sands and pools of Semiahmoo, sharing stories about the seashore wonders.

The low tides of winter nights offer a wonderful opportunity to witness many creatures that would otherwise "run" and hide from predators or the drying sun of summer. Big surprises often reveal themselves at night, as unsuspecting sunflower stars, crabs and other creatures may lurk in darkness above the receding tide.

Volunteer Beach Naturalists from RE Sources will prowl the shore, flashlights in hand, to help seek, discover and observe the shore's denizens of the night, while imparting tips in beach exploration etiquette and conservation. Afterwards, enjoy warm beverages, chat by a campfire and hear more stories told of this historical area by David Bean of Whatcom County Parks.

“Whether we’re gazing at shrimp in moonlit pools or huddling up with our headlamps focused on a moonglow anemone, the experience is sure to be memorable,” said Doug Stark, coordinator of RE Sources’ Beach Naturalist program.

Whatever the weather, adventurers should come prepared with flashlights, rubber boots, and layers upon more thick layers of warm clothing. Although the walk to the beach is short, rocks can be wet and slippery so the event is recommended for sure-footed adults and children
accompanied by adults.

More information, along with photos of warmly dressed adventurers can be found on the Beach Naturalist web page at www.re-sources.org or contact Doug Stark at dougs@re-sources.org , 733-8307.

The Beach Naturalist Program is made possible by volunteers and the North Sound Baykeeper, a project of RE Sources for Sustainable Communities, collaborating at Semiahmoo with WSU Beach Watchers volunteers and Whatcom County Parks and Recreation. Additional support for this event has been provided by MudUp, who encourages all of us to get muddy for a cleaner and healthier Puget Sound (www.mudup.org).

Sound Waters 2009
February 7, 8:30 am to 4 pm
Coupeville High School, S. Main Street Coupeville

Sound Waters, held each year on the first Saturday in February, provides a "one day university for all", to help the public learn about a wide variety of topics related to the appreciation and stewardship of our environment and marine resources. Year after year, it is the largest public gathering held in Island County for marine, nearshore, and environmental education.

This year our keynote speaker will be Dr. Mary Ruckelshaus, of NOAA Fisheries, who will speak on "A Sound Future".

To learn more, point your browser to http://beachwatchers.wsu.edu/soundwaters/

The Washington Climate Change Impacts Assessment Conference
Evaluating Washington's Future in a Changing Climate
February 12, 2009
9:00am -5:00pm
The Washington State Convention Center, Seattle

In July 2007, the University of Washington's Climate Impacts Group (CIG), in partnership with Washington State University and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, launched an unprecedented assessment of climate change impacts on Washington State. Funded by the Washington State legislature, the Washington Climate Change Impacts Assessment (WACCIA) evaluated the impacts of climate change on eight sectors: agriculture, coasts, energy, forests, human health, salmon, urban stormwater infrastructure, and water supply. Options for adapting to climate change within each of these sectors were also considered.

A one-day conference on the results of the Washington assessment will be held on February 12, 2009 at the Washington State Convention Center. The conference will provide an opportunity to learn more about the results of the assessment and to discuss implications for Washington's communities and ecosystems. Updates on global climate change science, resources for building adaptive capacity for climate change, and state-level actions to address climate change will also be discussed.

Who Should Attend
The WACCIA Conference is open to the public. The following individuals are particularly encouraged to attend:
• Resource managers
• Policymakers
• Business leaders
• Non-profit organizations
• Tribal governments
• Researchers
• Students, and
• Concerned citizens

Registration is now open. The registration fee for the conference is $100 until January 22, 2009. Late registration ($135) is January 23-February 6, 2009. No registrations will be accepted after February 6, 2009. A limited number of reduced registrations ($75) are also available for eligible participants.

Questions?
Please email or call Lara Whitely Binder (lwb123@u.washington.edu, 206-616-5349) with any questions.

Nooksack Recovery Team Salmon Summit
21st Century Economics: The Value of Our Salmon
March 12th 8:30am-3:30pm
St. Luke's Community Health Education Center, 3333 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham
For more information contact Lindsay Taylor: LTaylor AT n-sea.org
For registration details visit the NSEA website

Stories from the Sea
February 25, Wednesday 6-8 pm
Blaine Public Library
610 3rd Street, Blaine

Join your fellow Beach Watchers for this fascinating evening:

Listening to Orcas

Professor Val Veirs, Beam Reach Marine Science School and President of the Whale Museum and Todd Schuster, Captain of the Gato Verde will take us into the world of orca communication.

The Synthetic Sea

Sonia Hurt, Beach Watcher volunteer, presents the documentary that explores plastic debris’ harmful effects on our marine life.

Shipyard
Starts Saturday, Feb 28
73 minutes • 2008 • USA • In English • Unrated
Director Todd Warger and Guests @ The Pickford!

Wooden Ships & Fiberglass Boats: A. W. Talbot and the Bellingham Shipyards 1941–1963 The story of Seattle entrepreneur Archibald W. Talbot, a man with no knowledge of boats, or ship construction, yet who built the largest privately owned shipyard in the nation. He was a man of great integrity, much beloved by his employees, invocating the best principals of American ideals during his era.

The Bellingham Shipyards was a prime example of the hundreds of small community shipyards born out of the turbulent years of the Second World War, and the progressive period during the Korean Conflict, constructing wooden support vessels for the navy. Lasting only a few years, only a handful of these yards lasted long enough to have a comprehensive history documenting their heroic deeds, but were instrumental in the growth and prosperity of our nation. The film also examines the pioneering of the Bell Boy Boat Company started by Talbot in 1952, making Bellingham the first to bring a line of plastic fiberglass boats to the nation, changing the boating world forever!

This is the untold story of one of those small yards, located in a small, unknown community, lead by an unknown individual. Over fifty years since, the story is told by family members and former employees; the oldest living congressman of the World War II era; a pioneer in the fiberglass boat industry; the president of the largest shipyard in the United States; and one of the decade’s most controversial political authors. They all share their love and devotion to a single individual and their passion for a fading art.

January 2009 Upcoming Events & Opportunities

2009-01-13T15:51:00.000-08:00

Storming the Sound
Friday, January 30th, 2009 Maple Hall in La Conner

Padilla Bay Reserve, National Park Service and People For Puget Sound
Invite YOU to attend the 8th Annual “Storming the Sound” Conference

Registration is officially open! If you are interested in attending, consider registering NOW because conference attendance is limited to 130 participants. To attend the North Sound “Storming the Sound” Conference, you must either work/reside in a North Sound County (Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish, Clallam, Jefferson, Island or San Juan) or if you live outside this area, have programs/resources accessible to North Sound teachers.

Why attend “Storming the Sound” - “Storming the Sound” is an annual conference that brings together environmental education resource providers, teachers in the private, public and home school sectors and students interested in pursuing an environmental education career. This is the place to attend fabulous and unique breakout sessions, participate in the annual story and song swap, hear the keynote speaker and enjoy a delicious organic lunch.

What else do I need to know? If you register via online, you will receive a confirmation message in January (all else, as we receive them) with a simple what to bring list. Most importantly, we encourage you to plan on bringing a $10 conference attendance donation, a name tag, a travel mug and consider carpooling to this event! Visit the web page at www.padillabay.gov/storming to learn more.

How do I register for “Storming the Sound”? There are two options –you can register online at or contact Britta Eschete at 360-336-1931 or beschete@pugetsound.org.

Evening Beach Walk at Semiahmoo Park.
Friday, February 6, 2009
7:00 PM-9:00 PM
Free, donations appreciated

Enjoy an exciting opportunity to scout out the rich night life of our shoreline Friday, February 6th from 7:00 - 9:00pm at Whatcom County’s Semiahmoo Park near Blaine. Guided by Beach Naturalists, biologists and other creature experts, the group will wander among the magical sands and pools of Semiahmoo, sharing stories about the seashore wonders.

The low tides of winter nights offer a wonderful opportunity to witness many creatures that would otherwise "run" and hide from predators or the drying sun of summer. Big surprises often reveal themselves at night, as unsuspecting sunflower stars, crabs and other creatures may lurk in darkness above the receding tide.

Volunteer Beach Naturalists from RE Sources will prowl the shore, flashlights in hand, to help seek, discover and observe the shore's denizens of the night, while imparting tips in beach exploration etiquette and conservation. Afterwards, enjoy warm beverages, chat by a campfire and hear more stories told of this historical area by David Bean of Whatcom County Parks.

“Whether we’re gazing at shrimp in moonlit pools or huddling up with our headlamps focused on a moonglow anemone, the experience is sure to be memorable,” said Doug Stark, coordinator of RE Sources’ Beach Naturalist program.

Whatever the weather, adventurers should come prepared with flashlights, rubber boots, and layers upon more thick layers of warm clothing. Although the walk to the beach is short, rocks can be wet and slippery so the event is recommended for sure-footed adults and children
accompanied by adults.

More information, along with photos of warmly dressed adventurers can be found on the Beach Naturalist web page at www.re-sources.org or contact Doug Stark at dougs@re-sources.org , 733-8307.

The Beach Naturalist Program is made possible by volunteers and the North Sound Baykeeper, a project of RE Sources for Sustainable Communities, collaborating at Semiahmoo with WSU Beach Watchers volunteers and Whatcom County Parks and Recreation. Additional support for this event has been provided by MudUp, who encourages all of us to get muddy for a cleaner and healthier Puget Sound (www.mudup.org).

Nooksack Recovery Team Salmon Summit
21st Century Economics: The Value of Our Salmon
March 12th
8:30am-3:30pm
St. Luke's Community Health Education Center, 3333 Squalicum Parkway, Bellingham
For more information contact Lindsay Taylor: LTaylor AT n-sea.org
For registration details visit the NSEA website