Mile 21 - Pistol River SP south - January 17, 2014 | Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition

Report Details

We removed a minor amount of washed up "Oregon" debris and left a rubber tire that had washed up near end of mi 21-20 (rolled up to sand dune base). American made, Kelly Titanium, size R275-16We were happy to see Harbor Seals returning to the mouth of the Pistol, and much more bird activity at mouth (bathing).Bridge construction activity is waning, as crew is preparing to dismantle catwalk and finish cementing guard rails.River level seemed much higher due to last week's rains. Steelhead sighting was expected, and pleasant to see.

Conditions

Temperature: 44 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: NW. Tide Level: 2.5 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 1. Walking or running: 1.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 1. Cars/trucks on beach, allowed: 1.

Notable Wildlife

Many gulls were bathing at mouth of Pistol and disturbed once by Red tail hawk flying over area.One steelhead was observed at the mouth.Three harbor seals were present in the mouth and this is a relatively new sighting, as they have been largely absent since the bridge has been under repair. Now, activity at bridge is much reduced, with repairs near completion. One harbor seal followed us for at least 1/2 mile down to end of mile 21, curiously looking toward the TwoShermans.

Stranded Marine Mammals

Beach was relatively clear at the surface of active life (no obvious mole crabs or other crustaceans).

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Land-based debris (picnics, etc.), Shells, Small rocks, Wood pieces. We found a 16 inch rubber tire (for a small car) and rolled it out of tidal zone (end of mi 21 toward 20. Plastic bags removed.

Actions & Comments

Mile 21 showed some whole skeletal sand dollars. Sea gulls and sandpipers were present in the dozens (gulls were surfing above the first obvious wave break). Oystercatchers (1 pair) and gulls (multiple pairs) were present at end of mi, on Crooks Pt rocks. Much washed up driftwood present at end of mile 21-20.