As the Summer has all but wrapped up there is much to reflect on specific to the actions and efforts made by Surfrider Chapters in Washington. The change in weather doesn't limit those impacts but does provide a good time to reflect on 2014, and plan and prepare for 2015. See what's happening in your area below and attend a chapter meeting to get a better sense of whats happened at your beach, and how you can get involved with 2015 planning. In the months of November and December chapters hold annual planning meetings where ideas are shared, existing programs are evaluated, and new campaigns and programs are discussed. This time is ideal for members who otherwise have not been involved in a leadership role with a local program or campaign to step-up and work with their chapter on what they would like to see accomplished in 2015. This can be anything from Blue Water Task Force, Rise Above Plastics, fossil fuel export, or whatever the subject is that fits under the Surfrider mission of the protection and enjoyment of the worlds oceans, waves, and beaches.
Current existing programs and campaigns that maybe of interest are below based on specific chapters. For questions on these issues please contact Brice or even better, your local chapter! A summary of the major events of 2014 will be coming in the future months so keep an eye out for that newsletter or check back to find out all the goodness that happened in Washington.
South Sound: Blue Water Task Force water testing at 6 locations in the Tacoma area, monthly beach cleanups, and a reusable-bag initiative campaign in Tacoma.
Seattle: A Hold On To Your Butts (HOTYB) Program, active beach cleanups in the Seattle area as well as Westport, and a pending rain garden project in East Ballard.
Olympic Peninsula Chapter: Beach cleanups as part of the Washington CoastSavers organization, International Surfing Day, and maintenance of access spots at Crescents and the Elwa.
Northwest Straits Chapter: Blue Water Task Force, restoration of Whirlwind Beach, and regular beach cleanups.
Again, for more information or to share ideas on what you think your local chapter could get involved with in 2015 please attend a chapter meeting or get in contact with the chapter in your region.
