Locations
Marine Team ’08 conducted outreach programs at the following four locations. They are great places for both classroom fieldtrips and weekend explorations! Visit our resources pages and the following links for more information and don’t be afraid to get wet!
South Cove at Cape Arago
Fifteen miles outside Coos Bay on Cape Arago highway, the road ends, but the amazing habitat only begins. If you walk down the trail toward the sandy beach below, you will notice that there is an area of rocks that stretches half way across the shore and far into the water. At any low tide you can begin the see the biodiversity that this rocky intertidal supports. Here the Marine Team leads tidepool walks for the public, and inquiry-based lessons for school groups.
Sunset Bay
Twelve miles from Coos Bay lies Sunset Bay. This beach is great for tidepool exploration, or just hanging out on the sand and enjoying the calm waves. On the north side of the beach lays an area with flat rocks that are accessible to people of all ages. Here you can find a variety of intertidal plants and animals. The south side, which can only be accessed at lower low tide, is only for those explorers up for a challenge. Bring a pair of rubber boots and prepare to be amazed. The habitat extends into a wide rock shelf and a cobble field.
Simpson Reef
SEA information on Simpsons Reef
One mile north of Cape Arago is a place where you can see four species of marine mammals at once by merely stepping out of your car. Shell Island and Simpson Reef are resting spots for California sea lions, stellar sea lions, and elephant seal. In late April and early May the harbor seals give birth to their young right in plain view. There are also opportunities for whale and bird watching. During spring months the Marine Team does interpretation at the lookout and has spotting scopes that anyone can use. Shoreline Education for Awareness also works around the weekends to provide roving interpretation through the summer.
South Slough
South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve
Four miles southeast of Charleston on Seven Devils road is South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (SSNERR). Having both research and educational programs throughout the year, the reserve is a great place to learn about and explore estuary habitats. The 600 square mile reserve provides uplands, freshwater habitats, and tidelands perfect for class field trips and weekend hikes.