Mile 325 - Clatsop Plains, Gearhart south - 04/19/2024 | Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition

Report Details

Unusually warm weather with temperatures in the low 70's made for a pleasant afternoon walk on mile 325. Spring shorebird migration is occurring, and I saw multiple species including whimbrel, greater yellowlegs, and snowy plover. This stretch of the beach was clean with little evidence of marine debris. Fierce winter storms have led to natural erosion of the dunes along the edge of the estuary on this mile. The moon was a waxing gibbous at 84.6% according to a lunar calendar, and prevalent even in the early evening sky. Beautiful views of Tillamook Head were seen looking south of this mile.

Conditions

Temperature: 72 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Moderate. Tide Level: 0.95 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 49. Number of dogs: 12. Walking or running: 21. Sitting: 21. Surfing: 1. Other Activities: 1 person crabbing, 3 riding bicycles on the beach, 2 clammers, and 1 surfer..

Notable Wildlife

Notable wildlife included 2 snowy plover (not banded), 2 whimbrel, 1 greater yellowlegs, large numbers of pacific loon flying north past the breakers, 18 Caspian tern, 4 turkey vulture, a great blue heron fishing in the estuary, an osprey, and a Northern harrier.

Driftline Content

Shells, Animal casings (e.g., crab, shrimp molt). The wrack line contents were mainly comprised of broken clam shells (bivalves), crab shells, and many whole Pacific sand dollars (Dendraster excentricus). Very little marine debris was noted on this mile.

Natural Changes

Erosion of vegetated foredune. Significant erosion of the dunes consistent winter storms, including multiple downed trees along the edge of the estuary.