BioBlitz at Roads End

Roads End beach seen from the headland to the north.\Photo by Linda Fink.

CoastWatch has taken on a significant challenge—organizing BioBlitzes for Otter Rock and Cascade Head marine reserves.  Participation by CoastWatchers and other members of the public is essential.  Make plans to get involved in this valuable, one-day citizen science activity.  (For the Otter Rock BioBlitz on July 14, see separate listing.)

The Cascade Head Marine Reserve BioBlitz takes place on Sunday, July 15, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.  Meet Fawn Custer, CoastWatch’s volunteer coordinator, at the north end of the beach (we’ll supply more exact directions later).  Fawn will provide a brief training at 9 a.m., before everyone heads to the tidepool area. The event is free, everyone is welcome, and those of any skill level can help.  (That said, you can increase your skill level by attending the more extensive training session offered at Beverly Beach State Park on the evening of July 13.  See separate listing.)

A BioBlitz is an intensive survey of a defined area on a single day (occasionally two), with the goal of identifying all the species to be found in that area.  It is a snapshot of biodiversity.  This BioBlitz focuses on the margin of the Cascade Head Marine Reserve, primarily the intertidal area.  CoastWatch will be collaborating with the Friends of the Cascade Head Marine Reserve on this event. 

The BioBlitz takes place during a low tide; come dressed in whatever you are comfortable wearing into the wet intertidal area, and come prepared for the weather (which may be cool and foggy in the morning at the shoreline on an otherwise warm summer day).  Water, snacks, binoculars, hats, and sunscreen are all advisable.  And by the way, black oystercatchers may be nesting just offshore at the time of the BioBlitz, and foraging in the intertidal, so please, no dogs at this event.  Note that it is a walk of about a mile from the Roads End State Recreation Site parking area up to the northern end of the beach where the BioBlitz will take place, so plan to arrive a half-hour or so ahead of the start time to allow for walking time to reach the site.

For more information, contact Fawn Custer, (541) 270-0027, fawn@oregonshores.org.