Mile 289 - Kincheloe Point, South Jetty Tillamook River - June 16, 2019

Report Details

This is a partial survey. In the spring, the southern end of Mile 289 was posted as a bird nesting area. Now the beginning of the restricted area is about a quarter mile closer to the jetty. The family dog always accompanies us on surveys and on previous reports, I strongly questioned why dogs were specifically banned even if they were leashed. I do have an answer now. State Parks say the presence of dogs even out of the fenced area and on leash spooks the nesting birds. Dogs are a big predator. Kites are banned since they too spook the nesting birds. They are similar to raptors. Autos and bikes are also disruptive. But I do qustion the effectiveness of the signage. The signs are small and up in the soft sand well away from the normal hard sand walking area. If you wanted to prevent encroachment, put up large signs in the parking areas warning walkers and bikers. (This trip is widely published as a great beach loop.)

Conditions

Temperature: 58 F. Cloud Cover: Partly Cloudy. Wind Velocity: Moderate. Wind Direction: N. Tide Level: 2.5 feet.

Human Activities

Many cars on the spit parking lot, but didn't see anyone at the end of the spit. (Mile 289)

Concerns

Apparent violations: none.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 18.

Notable Wildlife

None on mile 289. Walking back, I noted a group of 5 bald eagles feeding on a smaller unidentified mammal.

Driftline Content

Small rocks, Shells, Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt). nothing unusual. Lots of eel grass.