Surfrider chapters crushed it in 2016. There were milestone campaign victories, new programs, and not to mention a lot of good times at the public meetings, beach cleanups, and our networks events. Have a look back at 2016 by taking a gander at out annual review post from the previous year. With all that said, there ain't no stopping us now. Building off of this enthusiasm all five chapters and our Western Washington University campus club took part in 2017 annual planning, a first to have all participating.
While every chapter operates under the Surfrider mission each has it's own uniqueness, active programs, campaigns, and geographic area where they work. This is a large part of what makes our network strong, by doing impactful work right in local communities. With these dynamics each chapter approaches planning a little differently. Some do full retreats while others stick around their own locale and simply celebrate the process with a little post meeting lunch.
Third Annual NWS/WWU Planning Retreat Selfie
The chapter leaders who get involved with annual planning work hard and play hard. Despite going to the mountain or beach, hours long productive planning took shape to improve their capacity, identify gaps, and really get to the root of what they want and can achieve.
Capitol chapter sending it on and off the mountain.
The Capitol chapter took to the slopes on a sun-filled day at White Pass. After a day full of good times, and a few minor injuries, the chapter charged through with themes of growing their Blue Water Task Force (BWTF) program, seeing out "the cove" campaign, and an emphasis on growing their network by increasing outreach and membership recruitment.
The Northwest Straits chapter and WWU campus club focused on making sure regular sampling is conducted through their BWTF program to make the data as representative as possible. The WWU club added an emphasis on getting involved on the policy side of things and utilizing their campus network to help shape decisions in Olympia.
Seattle established a goal of building out their membership base to increase their capacity to conquer more cleanups, Hold on To Your Butts program work, and to see what ideas others in their community may be passionate about that the chapter can help see to fruition.
The OPC looks to grow their beach access and water quality work through increased sani-cans at various locations in the straits and by working with local landowners on access issues.
Finally, the South Sound crew brought it home with a goal of continuing their 2016 programs, such as Blue Water Task Force and monthly beach cleanups, and growing them in 2017. Additionally, significant community outreach to assist with the Tacoma Bring Your Own Bag Ordinance.
The strategizing didn't stop after the meeting.
2017 is looking bright for Washington chapters and there is plenty of room for growth in ideas and new members. For more information, contact your local chapter or WA Field Manager Brice Boland to learn how you can plug in to make your waterways and beaches more accessible and a little healthier.