About Us
Friends of the Salish Sea
About Us: Who Are We?
Friends of the Salish Sea (formerly Friends of Skagit Beaches) was established in 2008. Our goal is to protect our marine shorelines and waterways through education, citizen science, and stewardship projects.
- We strive to increase public awareness & well protect the health of the Salish Sea.
- We aim to protect local wildlife like the endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales.
Our Mission & Values:
Our mission is to protect the wildlife who call the Salish Sea home from water pollution and negative human impact. We strive to reserve our marine treasures for today and for countless future generations to come. Since our creation in 2008, Friends of the Salish Sea has consistently taken action to help protect our natural habitat through various projects and initiatives. Whether its boots on the ground stormwater quality monitoring or youth outreach and public education, our volunteers know how to turn their passion into action.
Our Partnerships:
Friends of the Salish Sea works closely with volunteers and a number of organizations, both nonprofits and governmental agencies, to protect, restore, and monitor marine habitats in Skagit County. We have a number of partnerships that promote stewardship of our local natural resources. Our partners include Fidalgo Bay Aquatic Reserve, Anacortes Bay Wide Cleanup, and Monofilament Fishing Line Recycling.
Meet Our Team:
Our volunteers are a curious and hard working group. Whether it’s attending lectures or interpretive walks, counting species on the beach or birds in the bay, or explaining monitoring techniques to the public, we are curious and dedicated to learning and sharing our enthusiasm about the wonders of the Skagit County marine ecosystems and watersheds. Our Board of Directors is made up of members who volunteer their time and experience to the management and guidance of our organization.
Funding & Donations:
Our organization’s operations are funded by the Rose Foundation and the National Fish & Wildlife Foundation. This funding goes towards stormwater monitoring equipment, data managements, and outreach initiatives. Our project is powered by volunteers but has equipment, supply, and service expenses. Grant funding covers some of these expenses, but never all. Your donation will help us purchase bacteria supplies, meter probes, and heavy metal test strips.
