Overview
Island County encompasses over 212 miles of shoreline along Whidbey and Camano islands. More than 86,000 people call the county home, with Oak Harbor the largest city at over 24,000 residents. Military history runs deep on Whidbey Island, where the Naval Air Station is a major contributor to the Oak Harbor area culture and economy. Island County maintains a strong rural/agricultural base, and holds miles of pastoral scenery. The marine environment here is rich and productive, and many Treaty Tribes have Usual and Accustomed fishing areas in county waters.
The MRC has a strong focus on science, education and stewardship and intrinsic connection to the Washington State University Beach Watchers and Shore Stewards programs. These programs lend critical support to many conservation efforts around Puget Sound.
Island MRC is an advisory body to county government comprised of many community volunteers who represent diverse interests and industries, with the common goal to protect and restore marine resources in the Puget Sound area through scientific monitoring, restoration projects, and community education.