Mile 131 - Horsfall Beach, Oregon Dunes NRA - October 18, 2008

Report Details

This Coast Watch orientation hike was unusual in the discovery of a Bullseye Puffer fish, normally found in warmer waters, and an ailing California sea lion. The wreck of the Sajameco, a 324 foot Steel Steamer (3542 tons)built in 1920 was partly visible just at the Horsfall Beach access point. It wrecked in 1929. The bow and side walls were visible above the sand. Winter sand erosion and movement uncovered the wreck. Shells, animal casings, kelp/algae, small rocks, wood pieces and Styrofoam in the driftline. Western Gulls and Brown Pelican flying over beach and surf. Moderate human impact (8)-walking. Two dogs. Three ATV within allowed area.

Conditions

Temperature: 50 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Strong. Wind Direction: N. Tide Level: 1.0 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 8. Number of dogs: 2. Walking or running: 8.

Concerns

Disturbances: Disturbance/harassment of marine mammals

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 5. ATVs/OHVs parking: 3. ATVs/OHVs on beach, allowed: 3.

Notable Wildlife

Western Gull, Brown Pelican

Dead Fish or Invertebrates

Bullseye Puffer fish

Driftline Content

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

Man-made Modifications

Sand removal.

Actions & Comments

A sick California sea lion on the beach and the Bullseye Puffer fish have been reported by the Bilderbacks to the pertinent agencies. The sea lion was resting halfway up the beach, and we did not see it until it raised its head at a low-flying Coast Guard helicopter. The sea lion moved into the water at the approaching noise of three ATV driving south to pass between it and the water. The animal could not use its' hind legs to propel itself, which is an indication of an advanced bacterial infection. It disappeared into the ocean.