Mile 123 - Bastendorff Beach east half, South Jetty Coos Bay - December 23, 2008

Report Details

A cool, but relatively calm day with a small number of people (10) and dogs (5) enjoying beach.There was a KEZI 9 Eugene newscaster's SUV on beach in violation of posted rule. The destruction of the foredune continues despite posted signs saying no driving on beach.Gulls, Canada Geese and a few pelicans were the only birds observed. Saw jellies for first time this winter, also huge bullwhip kelp in high concentrations, some with red algae growing along nearly their full length. There was also surf grass, eel grass and a few sea palms. Shells, wood pieces and land- and ocean-based debris in the driftline. Tide was out, and surf was quite high.

Conditions

Temperature: 40 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: SW.

Human Activities

Number of people: 10. Number of dogs: 5. The foredune is being demolished by vehicles. Our currently very high tides obliterate beach tracks, but even the rains fail to eliminate the ruts.Litter in parking areas, and on beach

Concerns

Litter

Apparent violations: KEZI 9 TV news vehicle on beach, newscaster indicated she knew she was in violation.

Disturbances: Shorebirds moving in response to humans/dogs

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 6.

Notable Wildlife

Small group of pelicans, 2 flocks Canada Geese, large numbers gulls.

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Land-based debris (picnics, etc.), Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.), Shells, Wood pieces. Dense areas of 25-50 ft bullwhip kelp, razor clam shells, cockle shells (old), sea palms, cloudy jellies 6-9" diameter

Natural Changes

Erosion of vegetated foredune. caused by trucks, SUVs etc

Actions & Comments

Have not taken action on foredune destruction, as I believe Robin Sears, Ranger, well aware of problem.High tides have deposited litter in foredune. We removed as much as possible.Shocked at TV news KEZI 9 having their vehicle on beach filming dogs. I spoke to news reporter about her vehicle being on beach in violation of posted rules. She responded "I appreciate your concern" twice, that was all.