Beach Watchers accepting applications through Feb. 23
Volunteer members of Washington State University/Island County Beach Watchers learn a lot about all aspects of island environments from marine mammals to watersheds to geology to composting. In exchange for the hours of free training, volunteers are expected to give 100 hours of service over two years.
“That may sound likt a lot of hours but it’s amazing how fast those hours go,” Beach Watcher Coordinator Dot IrvinAsk said. Irvin took over the position in October and is looking forward to going through training herself.
“I’m really excited about the training,” she said. “There’s so much to learn and the quality of instructors is staggering.”
Experts in various fields will teach the classes which include geology of the islands by staff from Bellingham’s Coastal Geologic Services, Padilla Bay and Breazeale Interpretive Center biologists from Skagit County, state park rangers, as well as professors from University of Washington who will discuss global warming and climate changes and state Department of Ecology staff.
“Beach Watcher training is all-around intensive information,” Irvin said.
A new class this year will be on marine estuaries.
“We’ll be taking people out to Deer Lagoon to see what’s in our on backyards,” Irvin said.
“Beach Watchers are a great group of people,” she said. “Since October, I’ve been astounded by their diversity and how much they all have to give.”
“People on Whidbey really want to get involved, see how to help and then find their niche. Beach Watchers helps them do that. The calibre of volunteers is mind-boggling.”
Irvin has lots of plans for the program which includes expanding programs for kids and adults this summer that will attract residents and visitors.
“It’s important for people to get close to animals and the environment,” Irvin said. “Otherwise how will they want to save environment?”
February 23 is the deadline for the next training class of WSU / Island County Beach Watchers. Applications will be reviewed and applicants will be scheduled for an informal interview. Class size is limited to 25. There is a $20 fee for the class to help off-set the printing of educational materials. Classes will meet every Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m.to 3:30 p.m. from March 8 through April 28. Monday classes are at Race Road firehall on Central Whidbey and Wednesday classes are at Trinity Lutheran Church in Freeland.
About one-third of the Beach Watcher training consists of guided field experiences to locations such as Deception Pass State Park, Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Preserve, Maxwelton Outdoor Classroom and the Penn Cove Shellfish facility.
Graduates of Beach Watcher training perform their volunteer service in a variety of ways that best fit their talents and interests. Examples include leading beach walks, giving nature talks or trolling the shorelines, picking up trash and ridding areas of noxious weeds. Some speak at schools and community meetings. All participate in surveying beaches.
To apply, go to www.beachwatchers.wsu.edu. Or call Irvin at 679-7391. Irvin’s e-mail is doti@wsu.edu.
