Mile 220 - Yaquina Head north, Schooner Creek south - April 16, 2010

Report Details

Very little sand on the beach right now. Winter erosion of the sandy bluff has been significant. Two staircases that lead to Skinner's landing and a neighborhood access are gone. There was a significant increase in the plastic debris, especially tiny pieces of plastic in the shoreline. Two neighbors were picking up the larger pieces of debris, but the size and amount of the smaller pieces prevented being able to remove this litter.

Conditions

Temperature: 50 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: S. Tide Level: -0.1 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 15. Number of dogs: 10. Walking or running: 9. Tidepooling: 4. Most people were exploring the low tidal zone. Two neighbors had garbage bags and were picking up the larger pieces of plastic debris on the beach.

Concerns

Disturbances: Shorebirds moving in response to humans/dogs

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 5.

Notable Wildlife

3 oystercatchters

Dead Fish or Invertebrates

1 dead sea star, 1 crab

Driftline Content

Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.), Marine debris (plastic, styrofoam, etc. washing in from the sea). An alarming increase in plastic debris--especially small pieces.

Natural Changes

Newly exposed roots/trees falling, Evidence of wave overtopping, Visible retreat of solid bluff. Two stairs that lead to land above were no longer there.