CoastWatch Clinic and Citizen Science Training

Port Orford Field Station.

Dawn Goley, a professor of zoology at Humboldt State University and coordinator of the northern California branch of the marine mammal stranding network, and Fawn Custer, CoastWatch’s volunteer coordinator, will meet with all comers on Friday, Dec. 15, in Oregon State University’s Port Orford Field Station (444 Jackson St.), from 11:30 a.m. through about 1:30 p.m.  If weather permits, this will be followed by a beachwalk.

Fawn will provide a general “CoastWatch Clinic”—a how-to-do-it review of the techniques for monitoring a CoastWatch mile.  This is a chance for south coast mile adopters to obtain any training they feel they need, and to hone their skills.  This is also an opportunity for prospective volunteers to learn about CoastWatch and consider adopting a mile.  Bring your questions!  The session will also focus on the King Tide photography project, as Fawn will provide pointers for those willing to volunteer themselves and their cameras for the third round of the project in January.

Dr. Goley will explain the importance of monthly marine mammal monitoring and opportunities for volunteers to help. CoastWatch has long collaborated with the Oregon Marine Mammal Stranding Network.  Goley is pioneering a new protocol for citizen scientists to use in monitoring for stranded marine mammals, which CoastWatch is beginning to assist with on the southern Oregon coast.

Weather allowing, participants can then head to the beach for some on-the-ground training and guided beachcombing.

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