Learn About Coastal Processes
Puget Sound has over 2,500 miles of shoreline, more than a quarter of which has been hardened in some way over the last century. Most shorelines erode naturally, and we often forget that erosion is part of the processes that are creating our beaches. Our well-intentioned efforts to prevent erosion can have negative effects on both the ecology and geology of the beach. Learn more about these processes in our Shore Friendly Living video series.
This video was made in partnership with other Shore Friendly programs across Puget Sound.
The Northwest Straits Foundation, a Salish
Sea conservation organization, raises funds
to support locally-driven marine restoration,
stewardship and education programs.
Our award-winning projects in nearshore
habitat restoration and derelict gear removal
have restored the coastal environment in
Washington’s seven Northwestern counties.
Help protect our marine environment.
Get Involved
We work alongside citizen volunteers to collect meaningful scientific data to better understand the health of our shorelines and the physical and biological responses to the shoreline restoration efforts.
What we do
We play a vital role in the Northwest Straits Initiative; leveraging funding for, and collaboration in, conservation and restoration projects that are important to our communities.
Our Impact Annually
We foster collaboration and participation to restore and protect marine resources of the Northwest Straits.
Acres of marine habitat restored
Volunteer hours
Derelict fishing nets removed
Community Engagement
Volunteers are our most valuable resource! Muddy boots, expert knowledge and boundless curiosity are intrinsic to the strong citizen science and marine stewardship that define the Northwest Straits Initiative. We love what we do, and anyone can participate.
Derelict Gear Program
By removing lost and abandoned crab pots, fishing nets, and other gear, our Derelict Fishing Gear program has helped restore more than 820 acres of precious marine environment, saving nearly 470,000 entangled animals annually.
Shore Friendly – Shoreline Landowner Program
Approximately 27% of our region’s shoreline is modified with armor. Reducing shoreline armoring is vital to restoring the health of the Northwest Strait’s ecosystem.
Beach & Nearshore Restoration
We’re improving nearshore habitat for salmon, bull trout, and forage fish, upgrading public access, and increasing the beach’s resilience to climate change.
Story Map
Thank You to Our Partners
Every Contribution
Makes a Difference
Help protect and restore our local marine environment.
Contact
Northwest Straits Foundation
1155 N State St Ste 400
Bellingham WA 98225
(360) 733-1725
info@nwstraitsfoundation.org