Kids on the Beach

Skagit MRC and partners hosted 40 eighth graders from Conway Middle School for the 

Skagit MRC and partners hosted 40 eighth graders from Conway Middle School for the Kids on the Beach program for the seventh year. This hands-on marine learning experience was led by Annie England, environmental educator at Padilla Bay Research Reserve.

Students collected data on forage fish eggs and fish diversity, learning to interpret their findings and create graphs. They explored the question: “Which area of Fidalgo Bay beach provides the best habitat, and how is it related to the health of the habitat on land?”

The program was made possible by the Skagit MRC, Northwest Straits Commission, Forage Fish Volunteers, Padilla Bay Staff, and the Samish Tribe, who provided access to the bay and support from their Natural Resource Staff. A heartfelt thank you to all involved in making this program a success!

Learn more about Kids on the Beach.

Education & Outreach

Clallam MRC participated in Forever Stream Fest on September 21st, setting up an educational table to showcase projects and local environmental issues. The MRC engaged with85 members of the public, raising awareness and fostering interest in marine resources.

On September 27th, the MRC attended the Dungeness River Festival, which drew over 1,200 attendees, including all 3rd-5th graders from Sequim. The educational table provided an opportunity to connect with young learners and their families, sharing important information about the MRCs initiatives with the community and promote the mission to protect and enhance the marine resources of Clallam County.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by and showed interest in the MRC’s work!

Learn more about Clallam MRC’s Education & Outreach

Great Islands Clean up

San Juan MRC, partners,  and 130 dedicated volunteers came together for the Great Island Clean up, a community-driven event, which spanned Orcas, San Juan, Shaw, and Lopez Islands.

This collaborative effort led to the removal of an impressive 1,072 pounds of litter from 66 miles of island roads and beaches. Participants even sorted through some of the trash and successfully recycled 100 pounds! A heartfelt thank you to all the volunteers who are helping to keep our islands litter- and plastic-free!

The fall monthly beach cleanups are underway, starting with the first one hosted by Orca Network. Next month, the San Juan County Sheriff’s Guild will take the lead for the cleanup. Stay tuned for more updates!

Learn more about  Plastic Free Salish Sea