Port Townsend Marine Science Center

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Jacques Cousteau: The Sea King - A highly-praised biography of the famous ocean naturalist
Join us for a presentation by author Brad Matsen
When: February 13, 2010 4:30 pm
Where: Northwest Maritime Center, Maritime Heritage Building
Admission: $10, $7 for PTMSC and NWMC members. To register, call 385.5582 ext. 104.

Twenty years ago, maritime writer Brad Matsen hung out at the Port Townsend Marine Science Center, where he became acquainted with the Pacifi c spiny lumpsucker, one of the science center’s smallest attractions. That visit turned into “Shocking Fish Tales,” a classic little book about the wonders of the Northwest marine environment. Since then, Matsen has become a celebrated maritime writer, with books on salty topics ranging from commercial fishing to the sinking of the Titanic. Matsen will be available for a book signing following the presentation.

PTMSC ANNUAL MEETING
Tracking Blue and Humpback Whales: Latest Research
John Calambokidis, Cascadia Research Collective

When: Feb 20, 4 PM
Where: Port Townsend Yacht Club on Washington Ave, Boat Haven
Admission: Free to PTMSC Members, $7 to non-members
Recent studies are revealing secrets of blue and humpback whale migrations and underwater behavior. Using new tags attached with suction cups, this work is providing a unique view into the underwater lives of these giants – as well as the threats they face. In addition to photographs, John’s talk will feature new footage taken from the back of a blue whale.

Sunday, February 28 from 9:30 - 3 pm in the NHE, Ken Wilson will repeat his bird workshop called "Experiencing Seabirds" $25 fee. Current and prospective NHE docents will receive a free pass; they should consult with Jean Walat ext 112 to arrange. Participants should bring lunch and be prepared to carpool or drive to local bird viewing locations. Contact the Admin office, 385-5582 Ext 104 to sign up.

"How threatened are the Sound’s resident orcas? The largest member of the dolphin family and a major draw at marine parks, orcas (also known as killer whales) were listed as endangered in 2004. Six years later the future of these highly intelligent and social marine mammals, remains in jeopardy. Green Acre Radio brings us the story "Saving Orcas with 'The Whale Trail'", featuring Marine Program Coordinator Chrissy McLean at http://greenacreradio.blogspot.com

Free Science Classes
We are currently scheduling 4th and 5th grade classes from the North Olympic Penninsula to join us for free classes on Orca Communities and Orca Food & Habitat. Classes will be held from January 18 -February 26, 2010. Contact Jess Swihart for more information jswihart@ptmsc.org or 385-5582 x113

Hi PTMSC supporters!
It is once again time to solicit donors and donations for the annual Tides of March Benefit Auction. This major event funds outreach, education, and expanded understanding of the importance of our marine environment. Proceeds from the auction help fund scholarships and make hands on learning opportunities available to thousands every year. Click here for more info and donor forms.

Whale Camp

This summer, spend an exciting week on Puget Sound with marine scientists and artists, who will take you into the world of whales - orcas, minkes, grays, humpbacks and others. You'll engage in exciting, fun-filled activities that merge art and science.
Scholarships are available.
This week-long, residential workshop includes room and board: $695.
More info & Registration through Centrum

World's Oceans Face Plastic Pollution Problem -

Some scientists and environmentalists believe that more than 5 million square miles of the Pacific Ocean has become a soup of plastic confetti -- the remnants of plastic trash that travels on ocean currents from the world's shorelines. Now, researchers are trying to quantify the extent of the problem, and learn more about how plastic pollution affects fish, marine mammals and birds. NewsHour correspondent Spencer Michels reports.

PBS Report

In Search of Plastic Trash Staff Report | Skagit Valley Herald October 16, 2008

Beach Watchers volunteers Wednesday joined forces with staff from the Port Townsend Marine Science Center Wednesday to survey two Fidalgo Island beaches.

The volunteers screened sand and gravel from the shoreline, looking for pieces of Styrofoam, plastic bags, cigarettes and other plastic trash. The discoveries made by the Beach Watchers, a Washington State University group aimed at training shoreline stewards, will be used by researchers at the marine science center.

Puget Sound Partnership Video

"You stand on the ferry and look out at Puget Sound. It seems like a vision of pristine nature, but are you certain everything is as healthy as it seems on the surface? It might not be. And you might be falling victim to the problem of "Shifting Baselines"...."

People for Puget Sound Video

In a new video produced by People for Puget Sound, the artist Tony Angell says, “Puget Sound is like a peach. It looks great on the outside but if you cut it, it’s rotten on the inside…” Click on the link below to hear what’s at stake and what people can do to bring the Sound back to health. People for Puget Sound video