YACHATS — Two summer-long programs about to start will explore everything from the wonders of tide pools to the needs and purposes of coastal marine reserves.
Both programs are hosted by the Cape Perpetua Collaborative.
The first gets underway Sunday at Smelt Sands Beach State Park in Yachats, just off the 804 Trail. Volunteers for the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve ambassador program will staff a table and answer questions ranging from the types of sea birds and mammals that inhabit the area to the geologic and cultural histories that have shaped the central coast region.
Days and hours the table will be staffed are subject to change without notice due to weather conditions but, generally, volunteers will be on for at least several hours, three or so days a week through Sept. 5. Scheduled days and hours are listed here.
The second program is a resumption of the group’s tide pool ambassador effort that debuted last summer. A total of 18 three-hour tours of tide pools at Bob Creek Wayside south of Yachats and at Yachats State Park are scheduled, with the first slated for 7 a.m. Thursday, July 14 at 7 a.m.
The popularity of the three-hour tours, which are limited to five tide pool tourists and require reservations, is evident in the fact that eight of the sessions have already sold out. Paid guides at each of the two locations lead the respective groups.
For anyone just showing up without a reservation, additional volunteer guides will be on hand to answer questions and help launch visitors on their own self-guided tide pool tours.
“Both of these programs allow us to promote awareness and the conservations needs of marine reserves,” said Katy Nalven, the Cape Perpetua Collaborative’s program manager. “This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the statewide marine reserve program, so that’s worth noting, as well.”
Tide pool tips:
- Leave animals attached to their rocks;
- Travel slowly and carefully;
- Expect to get wet;
- Bring your binoculars;
- Always keep an eye on the ocean;
- Always stay on marked trails;
- Tides of zero feet and lower are best for visiting tidepools.
Special restrictions prohibit or limit collection of intertidal marine life. For specific information, check the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife regulations for each site.
