Mile 227 - Cape Foulweather, Rocky Creek - October 22, 2020

Report Details

There were 6 people present, 2 fishing and 3 surfers likely resting and waiting to go out again. The surfers were located at an establish fire pit where soil erosion progresses slowly due to use. There were very few birds and no other marine creatures observed. Overall the area appeared lightly used with the exception of the trail to the tree stand and a trail going north from Rodea point parking area. Actually, other earlier established trails appeared to be filling back in with vegetation. Most of the vegetation appeared to be in as good or better shape than earlier visits. The exception was the area below the parking/observation area by Ben Jones bridge. Very little litter was observed. The tree stand is still a concern for safety reasons.

Conditions

Temperature: 38 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: SW. Tide Level: -1.0 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 5. Sitting: 3. Fishing: 2. The occupants of the parked vehicles could be identified as those people I mention, fishers or surfers.

Concerns

Apparent violations: Tree stand is still a concern. It appears to be used often and is not of sturdy construction. If it was to fail injury could occur. It is on the edge of a steep rocky drop which could prove fatal if someone was to tumble that direction..

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 4.

Notable Wildlife

3 gulls flying about.

Driftline Content

Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.). I cannot get too close to the shoreline but observations did not pick up much in the way of trash along the driftline.

Natural Changes

Erosion of vegetated foredune. The area below Ben Jones bridge parking/observation area appears to be sliding. People may be jumping the wall and walking on the soil that is sliding as evidenced by footprints and trails.

Actions & Comments

Most of the area looks to have had light use. COVID19 restrictions has likely been a contributor to what appears to be a mild recovery of vegetation in some areas.