Mile 109 - Whisky Run, Fivemile Pt, south end Merchants Beach - March 24, 2009

Report Details

Kelp/algae and ocean-based debris in the driftline including a very large chunk of concrete-covered styrofoam, probably a floating dock. 20 Surfbirds on rocks in surf, flock of 134 Sanderlings and 5 Harbor Seals on offshore rocks. A few large clumps of kelp on beach, quite dessicated. Evidence of small fire in headland gorse near beach access (has been reported to State Parks). Moderate human use: 13 people, 3 dogs, 1 vehicle. Almost no trash.

Conditions

Temperature: 53 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Moderate. Wind Direction: N. Tide Level: 1.8 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 13. Number of dogs: 3.

Concerns

Fire

Apparent violations: Looks like someone tried to start a gorse fire, maybe 100 ft n of the access road.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 3. Cars/trucks on beach, allowed: 1.

Notable Wildlife

20 Surfbirds on rocks in surf, flock of 134 Sanderlings, and 5 Harbor Seals on offshore rocks. A few large clumps of kelp on beach, quite dessicated.

Dead Fish or Invertebrates

2 large medusae.

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.). A very large chunk of concrete-covered styrofoam, probably a floating dock