Mile 257 - Porter Point, Nestucca River - September 6, 2008

Report Details

First report, but impression is bluff areas that now appear rural/pasture should be watched for new development. Beach slope is steep here with vegetation growing above upper beach level about 4', separated by a steep eroded cliff. Tides should be carefully consulted to gain access to small beach on south side of Nestucca River mouth, and to assure safety to pass Porter Point Rock. Access from Camp Winema is good - checked with camp office. Other than that, an interesting beach with plenty to see. Sand is coarse as one nears river, and darker.

Conditions

Cloud Cover: Foggy. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: NW.

Human Activities

Number of people: 5. Number of dogs: 1. Walking or running: 4. Other Activities: beachcombing.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 1.

Notable Wildlife

western gull (many)harbor seals hauled out/nearshore on north spit, Nestucca Bay = 110

Beached Birds

Total dead birds: 4. common murre = 4western gull = 1

Stranded Marine Mammals

Dead & decomposed pinniped, probably harbor seal at high drift line, about 600 yards south of Nestucca River mouth.

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass, Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt), Land-based debris (picnics, etc.), Ocean-based debris (from fishing boats, ship trash, etc.), Shells, Small rocks, Styrofoam.

Actions & Comments

chunk of cork material, layered with tar, about 2' X 3', Possible floating dock material. I will send photo when available.