Citizen Science at Otter Rock

Karen Driscoll teaching the public about tidepool life on Earth Day.\Photo by Dennis White.

Join Fawn Custer, along with highly knowledgeable volunteer Karen Driscoll, for a belated World Oceans Day celebration at the Otter Rock Marine Reserve (perhaps we can call this Oregon Ocean Day).  On Friday, June 15, beginning at 8 a.m., Fawn and Karen will provide information and training for CoastWatch’s citizen science projects, offer guidance in CoastWatch monitoring techniques, and lead tidepool explorations.  The event is free and open to all, families included.

Things kick off with a tidepool session, coupled with an explanation of our sea star survey, at 8 a.m.  At 9, Fawn will provide instruction in the marine debris survey, and at 9:30 she will introduce the beached bird survey.  At 10 a.m. the subject will be the marine mammal stranding survey, plus a more general discussion of CoastWatch and how to participate—questions welcomed!  All these activities will take place rain or shine—weather permitting, there will also be a table full of information.

To find Fawn and Karen, park near the public restrooms in Otter Rock and take the trail north to the beach from there.  You are welcome to attend for the entire morning, 8-11 a.m., or to drop in to learn about a particular citizen science project that interests you.  You can always identify Fawn out on the beach by looking for her signature orange rainpants.

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