Mile 110 - Merchants Beach, Seven Devils State Wayside - June 18, 2008

Report Details

Beach was clean and almost litter free. Very few people (7)-5 walking and 2 sitting) on the beach at this time of day which is the most pleasant time as there is little wind. Noticed very few birds and no mammals. Shells, animal casings, kelp/algae, small rocks, wood and ocean-based debris in the driftline. Tide was low and had opportunity to check rocks normally under water at normal tides. Noted several old rusted car engine blocks and axles apparently thrown off the cliff many years ago. Too bad there is not better access to this site with the price of scrap metal these days-- the metal would soon be gone. Noted five steel crabpot rings at the high surf line -- still there from last observation. Believe State Parks should investigate the apparent relocating or denied access to the Pacific Coast Trail. I am of the opinion that landowners cannot arbitrarily close off access if there is a public easement on the property.

Conditions

Temperature: 50 F. Cloud Cover: Partly Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Moderate. Wind Direction: NW. Tide Level: -1.0 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 7. Number of dogs: 6. Walking or running: 5. Sitting: 2.

Concerns

Litter

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 4.

Notable Wildlife

Very few birds noted either in water or on shoreland

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.), Shells, Small rocks, Wood pieces. Five steel crabpots at high water mark

Man-made Modifications

None noted

Natural Changes

Visible retreat of solid bluff.

Actions & Comments

I have noted the concern of Coastwatcher 109 about the apparent denied access to portions of the coast trail. The alternate route is poorly marked off the beach and the trail is in need of maintenance. I also went to the end of Tokyo Lane and found the locked gates with no trespassing signs. Also found the "No Parking" sign. I question that sign since it does not say it was placed by Coos County. Tokyo Lane is a public road isn't it?