Mile 101 - Face Rock, Bandon Beach, Coquille Point - June 5, 2011

Report Details

Calm, overcast day with a lots of people (29). It was the first time we saw two separate groups of people climbing on offshore rocks. Attempted to notify authorities and spoke to one climber. Shells, kelp/algae, small rocks, and wood in the driftline. Beach debris was normal, although there were several sets of log shelters constructed. Observed a Black Oystercatcher and a Whimbrel. Found one dead breeding Brandt's Cormorant.

Conditions

Temperature: 65 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: NW. Tide Level: 4.0 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 29. Walking or running: 8. Playing in surf: 4. Playing in sand: 5. Sitting: 5. Fishing: 3. Two men fishing on offshore rock were motioned to. Since the incoming high tide had already isolated them, they decided to come off. No chance to talk to them. A second man was climbing on a large rock used by nesting seabirds earlier in the season. I motioned to him and called the Coos County Sheriff (Bandon Police referred me to ODF&W, closed on Sunday) who referred me to the Oregon State Police. Man eventually came down (had some difficulty), and I explained the basis for the regulations in the wildlife preserve, and he left the area. Left message with Sheriff - no State Police response.

Concerns

Climbing bluffs/seastacks

Apparent violations: Climbing offshore rocks.

Disturbances: Shorebirds moving in response to humans/dogs

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 10.

Notable Wildlife

One Whimbrel, one Black Oystercatcher

Beached Birds

Total dead birds: 1. Breeding Brandt's Cormorant

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Land-based debris (picnics, etc.), Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.), Shells, Small rocks, Wood pieces. truck tire with rim

Natural Changes

remnants of gorse fire at Coquille Point

Actions & Comments

Other than calling the Coos County Sheriff and speaking with the Oregon State Police regarding the rock climbers at the Face Rock Wayside, and speaking directly with one offender, no actions were taken. I read the posted regulations at the Face Rock Wayside; climbing on offshore rocks is not mentioned.