Mile 225 - Otter Rock, Devils Punch Bowl SP - March 12, 2016

Report Details

In spite of the stormy weather the were 23 eager tidepool observers, all guests at Otter Crest Inn. There were very few mature sea stars, no immature sea stars; mussels and purple urchins were abundant; no sea birds arrival yet; numerous squid egg cases beached; normal algae, normal anemone/barnacle/sculpin populations observed; two areas of seal gatherings. Resident black oystercatcher and bald eagle not observed this day.

Conditions

Temperature: 45 F. Cloud Cover: Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Storm. Wind Direction: SW. Tide Level: 0.2 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 23. Tidepooling: 23. In spite of the stormy weather 23 people came from Otter Crest Inn to view tidal pools. Vertical tidal pools unavailable due to storm surge. Minus sea star population of 2012, casual observation of mussel and purple urchin seems increased. Sea bird arrival on Gull, Otter Rock and Whaleback rocks not apparent. No juvenile sea stars observed. Squid egg cases (100s) littered Marine Gardens flats.

Concerns

Apparent violations: Marine Gardens access asphalt path still closed due to erosion access only via Otter Crest Inn stairs; previous 4x4x3 concrete box closer to cliff.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 1.

Notable Wildlife

Ibid from previous comments. Small populations seals sunning themselves.

Driftline Content

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

Natural Changes

Newly exposed roots/trees falling, Visible retreat of solid bluff. Asphalt Marine Garden pathway closed due to erosion