Olympia oyster restoration

Clallam MRC recently completed the next phase of their work at their 2024 Olympia oyster restoration site in Sequim Bay, a collaborative effort between Clallam MRC and the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe.

In early May, the MRC conducted a comprehensive survey of the Olympia oyster population to understand the size and number of oysters in the habitat. This data is crucial for assessing the progress of our restoration efforts and planning future initiatives.

In late May with the dedicated assistance of a Washington Conservation Corps crew, the MRC successfully spread 47 tons of Pacific oyster shell across the habitat. The shell, distributed in over 3,000 bags placed by barge earlier in the year, provides essential surfaces for young Olympia oysters to settle and grow.

The team of MRC staff and volunteers persevered through both rain and shine to ensure the success of this project. They are hopeful that their efforts will lead to a thriving population of young oysters in 2024, contributing to the health and biodiversity of Sequim Bay.

Thank you to everyone involved in this restoration work. We look forward to seeing more of the positive outcomes of this project in the coming year!

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Friday Harbor Open House

San Juan MRC recently participated in the annual open house at Friday Harbor Labs in late May. This event provided an opportunity for MRC members and staff to engage with the public and discuss the vital work they do and its connection to the marine science conducted at the labs.

The open house was big success. The MRC enjoyed a beautiful afternoon interacting with the community, sharing stories about their efforts, and answering questions from curious attendees. They also took the opportunity to distribute whale warning flags and stickers, raising awareness about marine conservation efforts.

With the summer outreach season just beginning, we're excited to announce that the San Juan MRC is finalizing the schedule for upcoming dock talks. These talks will provide further opportunities for community engagement and education about our marine environment. Stay tuned for more details, and we look forward to seeing you at future events!

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Kids on the Beach

Skagit MRC created the Kids on the Beach program in 2018, combining classroom learning with fieldwork, fostering a deeper connection to the environment. The program is now administered by staff from Padilla Bay Reserve, where its success has influenced other educational initiatives, highlighting its significant role in marine science education.

This spring, 250 students from three local schools (Concrete10-11th graders, Everson Elementary 4th graders, and Allen Elementary 5thgraders) engaged in the Kids on the Beach program, a hands-on science initiative at Bayview State Park. Under the guidance of volunteers from Skagit MRC, WSU Beach Watchers, Salish Sea Stewards, AmeriCorps and staff from Padilla Bay Reserve and the NW Straits Commission, students are guided in their data collection and other learning activities, exploring biodiversity and intertidal life.

Learn more about Kids on the Beach

Kids reach into the mud with beach science program
Skagit Valley Herald | May 23, 2024