Mile 171 - Heceta Beach South, almost to North Jetty - June 2, 2008

Report Details

Major increase of sand since last week. The bald eagle seemed quite unconcerned about tourists approaching somewhat for photos. The failing sewer system for the Driftwood Shores hotel complex has generated a noticable aromatic and visual algae bloom in the high beach area next to the buildings. The hotel has applied for annexation into the Florence municipal sewer district, and hopefully will be able to shut down the failed drain field by this fall, according to the local media.

Conditions

Temperature: 56 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: W.

Human Activities

Number of people: 7. Number of dogs: 2. Walking or running: 5. Fishing: 1.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 5.

Notable Wildlife

One mature bald eagle sitting on a driftwood windbreak structure watching the tourists watch him/her.

Stranded Marine Mammals

Total stranded mammals: 1. One decapitated harbor seal pup in surf line, on beach just north of the Siuslaw River North Jetty.

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Shells, Wood pieces. A few clear jellies

Actions & Comments

Major increase of sand since last week. The bald eagle seemed quite unconcerned about tourists approaching somewhat for photos.The failing sewer system for the Driftwood Shores hotel complex has generated a noticable aromatic and visual algae bloom in the high beach area next to the buildings.The hotel has applied for annexation into the Florence municipal sewer district, and hopefully will be able to shut down the failed drain field by this fall, according to the local media.