Mile 7 - Ransom Creek, South Harris Beach SP - September 10, 2014

Report Details

A beautiful sunny morning was enjoyed by those who ventured out on mile 7 at 7:00 am at low tide (-0.1 FT). Most notable observation was the condition of two sea stars found on a rock (see photo) about 300 feet south of the northern end of mile 7. The sea stars appeared bloated, discolored, weak, and sickly looking. The physical appearance of these sea stars may indicate sea star wasting. Actually, I was told that these are leather stars, subtidal, and are not used to being out of the water and that they are probably just fine - thanks again, Fawn!One gumboot chiton (ID by Fawn Custer - thanks Fawn!) was found near waters edge about 500 feet to the south of the northern end of mile 7.

Conditions

Temperature: 56 F. Cloud Cover: Sunny. Wind Velocity: Calm/Light. Wind Direction: NW. Tide Level: -0.1 feet.

Human Activities

Number of people: 10. Number of dogs: 3. Walking or running: 10. One fire pit with collapsed driftwood structure nearby was observed about 1/4 mile from the northern end of mile 7.

Concerns

Apparent violations: 2 dogs were not on leashes.

Vehicles

Cars/trucks parking: 3.

Notable Wildlife

Six to eight sea lions on off-shore rocks in southern part of mile 7. In the same area on mile 7, several oystercatchers, cormorants, and gulls were observed.

Dead Fish or Invertebrates

Unusual concentration. Note: Two bloated, discolored, and sick looking sea stars (sea star wasting?) were found on a rock (see photos) about 300 feet south of the northern end of mile 7. Actually, I was told that these are leather stars, subtidal, and are not used to being out of the water and that they are probably just fine - thanks again, Fawn!

Driftline Content

Seaweeds and seagrass. Mesoglea jelly