Mile 225 - Otter Rock, Devils Punch Bowl SP - February 2, 2016

Report Details

It was a blustery, cool day at Otter Rock. I used the Inn's staircase to access the north tidal area exposure as the marine garden asphalt walkway is badly eroded by high tidal waters. There were many seals high on normal tidepool areas, along with a single pup. The southern section of this mile was quite clear of any disturbance; the vertical tidal pool area even at low tide was unavailable for viewing. Normal driftline consisted of driftwood up against the cliffs. The American Bald eagle was wonderful to view.

Conditions

Temperature: 43 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Moderate. Wind Direction: SW. Tide Level: 0.6 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 5. Number of dogs: 1. Walking or running: 2. Tidepooling: 3. Given the blustery weather, I was surprised to see people looking at tidepools. There were seals visible.

Concerns

Apparent violations: Dog not on leash.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 5.

Notable Wildlife

Many seals were visible high on rocks, one baby. There was one American Bald eagle amidst many crows.

Driftline Content

Shells, Wood pieces. Driftline was high against the clifts. Asphalt walkway @Marine Gardens was damaged due to high tides.

Natural Changes

Major cracks appearing in bluffs, Newly exposed roots/trees falling, Visible retreat of solid bluff, Evidence of wave overtopping. Landslides/major boulder falls; Winter high tides have eroded much of the Marine Garden asphalt walk way. It is roped off to public.

Actions & Comments

I have photos of eroded beach, forwarded to Fawn Custer.