Mile 109 - Whisky Run, Fivemile Pt, south end Merchants Beach - April 30, 2009

Report Details

Generally, considerable sand build-up by waves and also above high tide by wind. In one random spot at low tide there was about 1/2 inch of fine sand over a deep layer of pea-size gravel. A few wide swathes of small agates (see photos) on Merchants Beach just north of Fivemile Point. One dead Turkey Vulture. Many large flocks of Sanderlings foraging. Harbor Seals or sea lions on offshore rocks. Kelp (Alaria and Egregia) and small rocks in driftline. Plenty of people and vehicles on beach, but remarkably little debris or any other impact. One person using an elaborate sluice for gold.

Conditions

Temperature: 57 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Moderate. Wind Direction: N. Tide Level: -0.5 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 12. Number of dogs: 2. Other Activities: 1 sluicing for gold, 1 paraboard. One guy with very elaborate sluice for gold (see photo) with electric power from truck, water pumped from the creek, multi-stage trays and tanks.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 3. Cars/trucks on beach, allowed: 4.

Notable Wildlife

Many large flocks of Sanderlings browsing the surf line or headed north on the wing. The usual seals or sea lions on offshore rock. Alaria (Broad-winged kelp) and Egregia seaweed.

Beached Birds

Total dead birds: 1. 1 unknown, perhaps immature turkey vulture: mostly black, touches of gray and white; wingspan about 3 ft; thick, curved beak, gray, only a couple inches long, overlapping upper/lower bills; head red, bald; feet entirely missing.

Driftline Content

Small rocks. Very clean beach

Actions & Comments

Generally, considerable sand build-up by waves and also up against foredune by wind. In one random spot at low tide there was about 1/2 inch of fine sand over a deep layer of pea-size gravel. A few wide swathes of small agates (see photos) on Merchant Beach just north of Fivemile Point. Plenty of people and vehicles on beach, but remarkably little debris or any other impact.