Trip Report

A killer whale and a juvenile gray whale (skeletons) were the greeters at the brand new Marine Life Center, located at the Charleston Marina and sponsored by the nearby University of Oregon Institute of Marine Biology. Obsidian bus riders had a peek at the new two story five gallery museum and aquarium two days before the grand opening. It was fun and educational to view the exhibits featuring the coastal ecosystem, local fishing industry, deep water habitat, marine mammals and diverse sea life. Institute Director Craig Young and Museum Director Trish Mace, as well as several students, were on hand to answer questions and explain exhibits. An excellent lunch was served in the school cafeteria. Professor Jan Hodder spoke about the Institute of Marine Biology, a U of O program, and shared information about the marine mammals at nearby Cape Arago. Our next stop was at the Cape Arago overlook to observe hundreds of pinnipeds (northern elephant seals, harbor seals, California sea lions and stellar seals) lounging on the beach and rocks of Simpson Reef and Shell Island. This rocky coastal area is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge. Al Solemon, a local volunteer, provided scopes for viewing. Naturalist, and fellow Obsidian, Rick Ahrens was very much appreciated as he shared information on several subjects throughout the trip. Best of all, the weather was warm and sunny in spite of predictions and secured the “no rain on my trip day” rule for the leader.