Help represent the importance of Oregon Coastal Recreation

As a recreational user (we're talking about the ocean, not drugs), you may (should) be interested in how wave energy development will affect recreational opportunities such as surfing, kayaking, boating or diving along the Oregon coast. Surfrider Foundation, working in partnership with Ecotrust and Natural Equity, is collecting information on behalf of the state of Oregon to help guide the placement of wave energy facilities in ways that reduce the impacts to recreational users. To do this, we created an online survey to both map and gather information on the importance of recreational activities along the Oregon coast. By taking part in our survey, you have the opportunity to directly contribute to Oregon's wave energy planning process and provide decision-makers with information needed to identify and plan for multiple ocean uses.

If you enjoy and appreciate recreating along Oregon's coast, please participate in the survey and pass it along to everyone you know who shares a vested interest.

For more information, contact Gus Gates or Pete Stauffer.

Are we surfing in poo?

Oregon began to implement a statewide beach water quality monitoring program in 2003. The Oregon Beach Monitoring Program tests 81 sample locations at 25 beaches for the presence of fecal bacteria, and reports elevated levels to the public.

Before paddling out, it's wise to check for for current advisories:

North coast beaches

Mid coast beaches

South coast beaches

Every one of us can help protect Oregon's coastline

We may have frigid and sometimes sharky waters to contend with, but in terms of access, Oregonians are lucky. Thanks to the Beach Bill of 1967, 90% of our 362 miles of coastline is accessable. But with that priviledge comes the responsibility to protect it.

There are many ways to get involved to make a difference for our own sake, and for future generations. Start by joining Surfrider Foundation. Surfrider advocates for clean water, beach access, beach preservation and protecting special places – many of which happen to be our favorite surf breaks. And they are damn good at it.

The Surfrider Foundation's greatest strength is their grassroots, community-based focus and ability to act as local activists for the protection of the coast – YOUR coast. Contact your local chapter and get involved! You might even have a good time.

Portland Chapter
Newport Chapter
Suislaw Chapter
Washington Chapter Network

By the way, if you're interested in knowing how we came about our landmark Beach Bill, check out the 2008 documentary The Politics of Sand.

An online Costal Atlas is also available to the public that provides a wealth of information on coastal resources.

SOLV it!

Surfers need to always pack out what they pack in, but participating in SOLV Beach and Riverside Cleanup days is yet another way to pay our respect to Mother Ocean.

The next big event is scheduled for Sept. 25th.