SoundIQ
SoundIQ allows us to visually illustrate our projects on a map in the context of other important natural resource information. Embedded in the SoundIQ maps are links to the data and reports associated with Northwest Straits projects. Learn more about our work by visiting SoundIQ. Find more information and a link to SoundIQ below.
Project Details
Forage Fish
Pacific herring, sand lance, surf smelt, and other forage fish are key to the health of marine food webs throughout the Salish Sea. They are fuel for endangered seabirds, salmon and orca whales. They are bait for commercial and sport fisheries and a tasty treat to many people.
Project Details
Harbor Seal. Photo credit: Florian Graner
Kelp Plan
Vibrant kelp forests are vital to the health of Puget Sound and Salish Sea. The Kelp Plan provides a research and management framework for coordinated action. Learn more about the Kelp Plan, related resources, efforts, and ways to help below. Contact the Project Coordinator if you or your organization are interested in the Kelp Plan.
Project Details
In 2025, we marked 27 years of collective action stewarding marine waters to ensure a thriving future for marine ecosystems—and the communities that depend on them.
From removing derelict boats to monitoring bull kelp, surveying forage fish, and supporting healthy eelgrass beds, our work continues to connect science and community to deliver real, measurable results.
This Impact Report highlights the actions and outcomes led by seven county Marine Resources Committees (MRCs), the NW Straits Commission, and our many partners. Together, thousands of volunteer hours, strong local partnerships, and essential federal, state, and county support made this work possible. THANK YOU to our partners, volunteers, and members. This work couldn’t be done without you.
The Northwest Straits Commission is a regional coordinating body comprised of people who care about the marine areas where they live, and who work together to protect and restore marine resources.
The Northwest Straits Commission carries out regional conservation projects and supports the work of seven Marine Resources Committees through funding, technical support, training and regional coordination.
Winter night tide pooling, Triopha catalinae also known as a sea clown nudibranch. (Caitlyn Blair).
Member Spotlight: Jeff Taylor
Become a Salish Sea Stewards volunteer and make a difference!
Registration is open through January 31, 2026. Find the registration link on the Skagit MRC website. Space is limited to 26.
2026 Salish Sea Stewards Training: Classes will be held Tuesdays, 1:00 pm-5;00 pm, February 10 - April 14, 2026. Most classes are held at Padilla Bay, with some field days.
Snohomish MRC continues its partnership with WSU Beach Watchers, offering quarterly beach walks throughout the year. These walks provide an opportunity for the community to explore the local shorelines and learn about marine ecosystems.
January 28, 2026 is the next Starlight Beach Walk at Edmonds’ Olympic Beach Park from 6:30pm to 8:00 pm. A free event for all ages.
San Juan MRC continues derelict vessel patrols despite intense wind, rain and storms. Kari Koski, San Juan County’s derelict vessel coordinator has been busy responding to incidents, following up with the owners of vessels of concern, and helping to move boats into Department of Natural Resource’s Vessel Turn-In Program. With the county boat out of commission, the MRC will conduct more shore-based surveys in the coming weeks.
Member Spotlight: Jeff Taylor
Get to know more about Jeff Taylor, who serves on the Jefferson MRC and is their representative on the Northwest Straits Commission.
Friday
January 30, 10:15 am - January 30, 2:45 pm
The meeting will be held in-person at the Stevens Center at Padilla Bay Reserve. Meeting materials are available here.
10441 Bayview Edison Road, Mount Vernon, WA, 98273
Friday
February 27, 10:00 am - February 27, 12:00 pm
This meeting will be held virtually on Zoom.
Meeting materials will be available the week of the meeting.
Thursday - Friday
April 2, 10:00 am - April 3, 3:00 pm
More details about the 2026 NWSC Retreat will be available in the coming months.
Forty-three Conway Middle School eighth graders explored marine science during the Fall 2025 Kids on the Beach program Oct. 23 at Fidalgo Bay…
The Northwest Straits environmental leadership award honors individuals that leave a lasting impact on our work in a way that helps us advance our…
The 2025 MRC Conference brought the NW Straits community together in Skagit County where we gathered at La Conner’s Maple Hall on November 7–8.
We’ve launched the updated SoundIQ! This interactive, map-based tool lets users explore and download spatial data on nearshore species and…