About this event
Sound Water Stewards is excited to join new partner organization Pacific Mammal Research (PacMam) to have an opportunity to conduct marine mammal field research. PacMam is a 501c3 non-profit organization based in Anacortes, Washington, dedicated to understanding more about marine mammal populations in the Salish Sea and passing on that knowledge through scientific publications and education. Founded in 2014, PacMam is one of only a handful of organizations worldwide conducting long-term non-invasive research and monitoring of harbor porpoise populations. They are also one of the few marine mammal research organizations that conduct their surveys on land instead of on a vessel.
Visit this link to learn more about PacMam!
Their research is weather dependent, and is not conducted during rain. If the weather calls for rain on Thursday October 1st, the fieldtrip will be rescheduled for Friday October 2nd or possibly the following week. After purchasing your tickets, please monitor your email for updated time, address, and information closer to the date.
Purchasing Tickets:
$79: Each ticket includes payment to Pacific Mammal Research and support for Sound Water Stewards.
Fees & Receipt: A ticket processing fee of $4.10 is charged for this event. After your purchase, you will receive a confirmation email with ticket details. Please note that ticket sales are final unless the trip is cancelled, but can be transferred.
What To Expect:
This fieldtrip will begin with an informational presentation about PacMam and the animals they study. Then we will be splitting up into 2 groups. Group 1, lead by Research Director Dr. Cindy Elliser, will be hiking out to “research rock” located just above the water of Burrows Pass. The 10 minute hike out to the research area has many roots and rocks, multiple changes in elevation, and a big climb back up the hill once the field session is over. Those who do not feel comfortable hiking this trail can join group 2, lead by Research Assistant Ciera Edison (also known as your new SWS Administrator). She will be leading the same field session as the other group but instead from the observation point up located on WA Park loop road. This vantage point sits directly above the location where PacMam conducts their research and does not require hiking. This view point does have rocks that can be a tripping hazard so watch your step as you walk the 30 yards from the car to the viewing area.
What To Bring/Wear:
To make the most out of this fieldtrip, be sure to bring your spotting scopes, binoculars, or long-lens camera. You may want to bring a legless folding chair or foam pad to sit on since the field session will be approximately 2 hours long. The ground is not level in most places, so sit and/or stand with caution. Come dressed for the weather, whether that means sunglasses and sunscreen, or a wind breaking rain jacket and gloves.
Contact:
If you have any questions about this fieldtrip opportunity, please contact Ciera Edison at administrator@soundwaterstewards.org
