Mile 110 - Merchants Beach, Seven Devils State Wayside - September 16, 2007

Report Details

Great day to be on beach. Little wind and warm temperatures. Normal amount of kelp/algae, large number of crab casings and clam shells, small rocks and wood pieces. Many gulls roosting and feeding near surfline unconcerned about nearby human activity. Much more water drainage across beach from headlands indicating more moisture in area than normal for this time of year. Moderate human impact (14)-8 walking, 2 playing in surf and 4 picnicing. 6 dogs. Illegal campsite with canvas coverings, barbeque and empty beer cans and trash around it. ATV tracks at campsite. Tracks on prohibited beach coming from Whisky Run around point at low tide.

Conditions

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

Human Activities

Number of people: 14. Number of dogs: 6. Walking or running: 8. Playing in surf: 2. Other Activities: Picnicing -4. Tracks of large tire ATV in evidence at forementioned campsite. Coming from south access at Whisky Run during low tide around point. Camp needs to be removed.

Concerns

Fire

Apparent violations: Semi-permanent camp set up next to hillside where gorse vegetation is growing. State Parks should be notified. Camp approx. 1/2 south of 7-Devils Wayside.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 9. ATVs/OHVs on beach, prohibited: 1.

Notable Wildlife

Many gulls roosting and feeding near surf line. Several large jellyfish noted in surfline. Large number of crab casings and clam shells in evidence.No dead birds observed.

Dead Fish or Invertebrates

None noted.

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Shells, Small rocks, Wood pieces.

Man-made Modifications

None noted

Natural Changes

Similiar to last report

Actions & Comments

No action taken but would like to see Oregon State Parks notified about illegal campsite located 1/2 mile south of Seven Devils Wayside next to hillside and brush area. Campsite has canvas coverings, barbeque, and many empty beer cans and trash around it. Obviously used by illegal ATV'ers from Whiskey Run area at low tide.