King Tide Preview Gathering

King Tide swamps Charleston shoreline.\Photo courtesy of Raincoast.

To prepare for the second round of the 2018-2019 King Tide Project, and put the photographs we’re collecting of the year’s highest tides in context, CoastWatch and our partner, the state’s Coastal Management Program, are hosting a special event on Friday, Jan. 18, 2019, at the OIMB Dining Hall. 

Doors open at 5 p.m., with the casual get-together, including appetizers, getting started at 5:30.  The Charleston Marine Life Center (63466 Boat Basin Rd.) is inviting participants to visit their facility, across the street, before the presentations begin, from 5-5:45.  Once the party gets started, we’ll view the best of the King Tide photos from the first round in December, learn about the project and its importance in documenting the highest current tides as a preview of sea level rise, and enjoy food and drink. 

We will also hear from speakers providing perspective on the project.  One of those speaking at this event will be Shon Schooler, lead scientist and research coordinator at the South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, who will discuss how sea level rise will affect Oregon’s estuaries. 

Our second speaker, Meg Reed of the Department of Land Development and Conservation, will provide a tutorial on the King Tide Photo protocols, discuss the nature of king tides, and explain the project's purpose and value.  This gathering will provide fascinating background information, and assist volunteer photographers in making a contribution to the last two rounds of the King Tide Project.  It should wrap up by 7 p.m. or so.

We have wonderful items donated for a raffle.  The event, aside from raffle tickets, is free and open to all, although donations are gratefully accepted.

RSVP respectfully requested by contacting Fawn.

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