Salish Sea News and Weather: April 2021

Friday, April 30, 2021

4/30 Redstem wild lilac, WA climate bill, Canada emissions, BC forest protest, Kurt Grinnell memorial, news week in review

Redstem Wild Lilac [Native Plants PNW]

Red Stem Ceanothus Ceanothus sanguineus
Redstem Ceanothus is also known as Redstem Wild Lilac, Redstem Buckbrush, Oregon Tea Tree, Northern Buckbrush, or “Soapbloom.” Sanguineus means blood red, referring to the stems or flower stalks. This species is native on both sides of the Cascades from British Columbia to northern California; eastward to western Montana, with reported occurrences in South Dakota and on the shores of Lake Superior in Michigan. (Native Plants PNW)

WA climate cap bill fractures alliances on its way to Inslee’s desk
A sweeping climate proposal from Gov. Jay Inslee has both fractured existing alliances and sparked new ones — among activists and oil refineries alike — on its way to becoming Washington state law. The divisive bill, now awaiting Inslee’s signature after passing the state legislature, puts a cap on how much carbon dioxide the state’s biggest polluters can spew into the air and makes it more expensive for them to do so. John Ryan reports. (KUOW)

Can Canada reach its emissions targets while still producing so much oil and gas?
Last week, the federal government vowed that Canada would reduce its carbon emissions by 40 to 45 per cent below 2005 levels by 2030. Climate researchers say that can't happen, however, without significant changes to Canada's oil and gas production, including the elimination of the industry subsidies that help support it. (CBC)

Activists to appeal injunction against old-growth logging blockades on Vancouver Island
A group of activists maintaining blockades aimed at preventing old-growth trees from being logged have filed a notice to appeal a British Columbia Supreme Court decision that granted an injunction against them. The Rainforest Flying Squad argues the court erred when it granted Teal-Jones Group an injunction against the blockades set up to prevent the company from accessing parts of its forest tenure on Vancouver Island. (Canadian Press)

Some 300 expected to celebrate life of Jamestown tribal leader
The life of the late Kurt Grinnell, a man whose life was wedded to the Salish Sea, will be celebrated Saturday morning in a public outdoor service on Jamestown Beach, a historical focal point of the Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe. Tribal planner Luke Strong-Cvetich said Thursday he expects roughly 300 friends, family and community members to attend. Paul Gottlieb reports. (Peninsula Daily News)

Salish Sea News Week in Review 4/30/21: Bugs Bunny Day, tsunami maps, Squalicum estuary, WA carbon cap, Bangor oysters, Puget Sound spring, baby sea stars, Jordan Cove LNG, glacier melt, WA climate bill, Canada emissions

Now, your weekend tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 224 AM PDT Fri Apr 30 2021
TODAY SW wind to 10 kt becoming W 10 to 20 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves 1 ft or less building to 1 to 3 ft in the afternoon. W swell 6 ft at 10 seconds. A chance of rain in the morning.
TONIGHT W wind 5 to 15 kt becoming to 10 kt after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 5 ft at 11 seconds. A slight chance of showers after midnight.
SAT W wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 5 ft at 10 seconds. A slight chance of showers.
SAT NIGHT W wind 5 to 15 kt becoming to 10 kt after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 5 ft at 17 seconds.
SUN Light wind. Wind waves less than 1 ft. W swell 5 ft at 15 seconds.

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Thursday, April 29, 2021

4/29 Western azalea, melting glaciers, derelict boats, Puget Sound recovery, shrinking salmon, green crab, sewage spill, BC Ferries, on-land fish farm

Western Azalea [Native Plants PNW]

Western Azalea Rhododendron occidentale
Western Azalea is native to the coasts of central and southern Oregon and California, in the Umpqua Valley, and the Siskiyou and Sierra Mountain ranges. There have been some anecdotal accounts in the Puget Sound region. (Native Plants PNW)

Satellites show world’s glaciers melting faster than ever
A new study of the world’s 220,000 mountain glaciers finds that they are melting faster now than in the early 2000s Glaciers are melting faster, losing 31% more snow and ice per year than they did 15 years earlier, according to three-dimensional satellite measurements of all the world’s mountain glaciers. Scientists blame human-caused climate change. Seth Borenstein reports. (Associated Press)

B.C. government puts $9.5M toward removing more than 100 derelict boats
Environment Minister George Heyman says the province is spending $9.5 million to address the "massive'' problem of marine debris along the coast. Four projects will share the funding to clean up 1,200 kilometres of coastline and more than 100 derelict vessels. The cleanup projects are being done by the Small Ship Tour Operators Association, the Wilderness Tourism Association, Coastal Restoration Society, Ocean Legacy Foundation and the Songhees Development Corp., with each receiving between $1.5 million and $3.5 million. (Canadian Press)

Rep. Derek Kilmer expresses optimism about future funding for Puget Sound recovery
Federal support for Puget Sound recovery is on the rise, and there is growing hope that the Sound’s ecological problems will receive increased consideration and funding, according to U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer, D-Gig Harbor. “With a (Democratic) majority in the House and the new Senate majority, and the White House, I think that we are going to see some progress,” Kilmer said, speaking Friday at the annual “Puget Sound Days on the Hill.” In support of his optimism, Kilmer pointed out that his PUGET SOS bill, which would create a new office for Puget Sound within the Environmental Protection Agency, has already moved out of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, where it passed with strong bipartisan support, a vote of 54-3. Christopher Dunagan reports. (Puget Sound Institute)

Salmon have shrunk so much that Whole Foods redid its guidelines
At OBI Seafoods, a sprawling operation with outposts throughout Alaska, there’s all sorts of extra machinery for workers to master. At Whole Foods Market, there are new guidelines for purchasing salmon from wholesalers. And at Ivar’s, a fixture on Seattle’s waterfront for eight decades, the chef is sending back skimpy salmon delivered to his kitchen. Kim Chapman reports. (Bloomberg)

European Green Crab trapping season starts in Drayton Harbor
Washington scientists are using information learned last year as they gear up for trapping the European Green Crab in Drayton Harbor this year. A team of researchers from Washington Sea Grant, Northwest Straits Commission and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) started setting traps the week ending April 16. Grace McCarthy reports. (The Northern Light)

1,655 gallons of sewage spills into Puget Sound after century-old mainline collapses at Alki Beach
Crews are repairing a century-old mainline that collapsed and caused about 1,655 gallons of raw sewage to spill into the Puget Sound. Seattle Public Utilities responded to the overflow at Alki Beach around noon on Tuesday and was able to stop the spill at about 6:00 that night. Franque Thompson reports. (KCPQ)

Changes to Sunshine Coast route will go ahead despite criticism, says BC Ferries
A trial to test major changes to BC Ferries' route from the Lower Mainland to the Sunshine Coast will go ahead, despite a petition gathering thousands of online signatures that criticizes the proposed changes, according the company's CEO. The details of the trial were announced last week, and quickly led to the creation of a petition, which among other things, suggests the plan "will cause Sunshine Coast residents unnecessary stress, undue hardship and will negatively affect thousands of Sunshine Coast residents' lives." Rafferty Baker reports. (CBC)

The salmon you buy in the future may be farmed on land
In a series of indoor tanks 40 miles south west of Miami, Florida, five million fish are swimming in circles a very long way from home. The fish in question are Atlantic salmon, which are far more typically found in the cold waters of Norway's fjords or Scotland's lochs. As the species is not native to Florida, and would be unable to cope with the state's tropical heat, the water tanks are kept well chilled, and housed in a vast, air-conditioned and heavily insulated warehouse-like building. The facility, called the Bluehouse, opened its first phase last year, and intends to be the world's largest land-based fish farm. Dan Gibson reports. (BBC)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 218 AM PDT Thu Apr 29 2021
TODAY Light wind becoming NW 5 to 15 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves less than 1 ft becoming 2 ft or less in the afternoon. W swell 4 ft at 11 seconds.
TONIGHT NW wind 5 to 15 kt becoming E after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 11 seconds. Rain after midnight.

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

4/28 Bitter cherry, baby sea stars, oil cleanup, drought, Jordan Cove LNG, BC caribou, native bees

Bitter Cherry [Native Plants PNW]

Bitter Cherry Prunus emarginata
As the common name suggests, the fruits of Bitter Cherry are very bitter. The fruit is inedible to people. Bitter Cherry is found from southern British Columbia to southern California along the coast through the Cascades and Sierra Nevadas; east to the Rocky Mountains of Idaho and Montana, and in isolated communities in Wyoming, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico. (Native Plants PNW)

Thousands of baby sea stars born at UW lab are sign of hope for endangered species
Just a few days shy of the first day of spring, scientists at Friday Harbor Laboratories on San Juan Island had reason to celebrate. Dozens of juvenile sea stars, no bigger than a poppy seed, had successfully metamorphosed from floating larvae to mini star — the important first step toward becoming an adult. Between now and then, these sunflower sea stars, the largest sea star species in the world, will grow up to 24 arms and a colorful body the size of a serving platter. Michelle Ma and Kiyomi Taguchi report. (UW News)

Specialty crew from Florida joins cleanup effort at site of Nootka Sound shipwreck oil leak
A specialty team from Florida has joined the efforts to clean up and contain an oil leak from a shipwreck in B.C.'s Nootka Sound, off the coast of Vancouver Island. The MV Schiedyk sank near Bligh Island in 1968 and has sat there ever since. When it went down, it had 35 tonnes of fuel on board. The leak, discovered late last year, has released up to 11 litres of oil into the water each day, according to Paul Barrett, federal unified commander for the Bligh Island shipwreck response with the Canadian Coast Guard. Courtney Dickson reports. (CBC)

Drought conditions arise, may spell trouble for summer
Despite a healthy amount of snowfall in the North Cascades over the winter and some recent rain, west Skagit County and surrounding areas slid last week into the “abnormally dry” drought category. The “abnormally dry” category is the least severe of five U.S. Drought Monitor categories. Kimberly Cauvel reports. (Skagit Valley Herald)

Jordan Cove on ‘pause,’ pipeline company tells court
The development of the Jordan Cove liquefied natural gas terminal [Coos Bay OR] is on pause, those behind the project told a court last week. The companies planning the export terminal and the 229-mile pipeline leading to it have been tight-lipped about the project’s future in light of recent procedural challenges, but said in a court document Thursday that development is on hold. Zack Demars reports. (The World)

New research shows continued habitat loss will drive caribou to extinction in B.C.
The endangered woodland caribou of Western Canada will be lost forever if direct action isn't taken soon, according to a new study funded in part by B.C., Alberta, and the federal government. The study shows that caribou have lost twice as much habitat as they've gained over the past 12 years. Research shows that logging, road building, forest fires and climate change are the main factors driving the increased rate of habitat loss. (CBC)

New survey offers a glimmer of hope for declining native bee populations
The tribulations of the honeybee are well-known, even if the origins of the mysterious colony collapse disorder that wiped out hives a few years ago are not easily explained. Then came our awareness of the afflictions of the bumblebee. Of more than 40 species of this beloved creature in North America, half are said to be in decline. One of the most vexing developments is the near disappearance of the once ubiquitous rusty-patched bumblebee over the past 25 years. Adrian Higgins reports. (Washington Post)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 236 AM PDT Wed Apr 28 2021
TODAY E wind to 10 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Wind waves 1 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 11 seconds. A chance of rain in the afternoon.
TONIGHT NW wind to 10 kt becoming SE after midnight. Wind waves 1 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 11 seconds. A chance of rain in the evening.

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

4/27 Salmonberry, Squalicum estuary, Pt Wells condos, WA census, TM pipe pause, tsunami maps, permafrost melt

Salmonberry [Native Plant PNW]

Thriving Together: Salmon, Berries, and People
The salmonberry plant has nourished and healed Indigenous communities of the Pacific Northwest coast for countless generations, but its significance goes far beyond its value as food. ‘Cúagilákv (Jess Housty) writes. (Hakai Magazine)

Little estuary to see big restoration investment
Restoration plans call for establishing a fish-friendly estuary at Little Squalicum Park on Bellingham Bay, where currently the stream is routed through the confines of a concrete culvert. Alex Meacham reports. (Salish Current)

Council affirms ruling against Point Wells condo project
The Snohomish County Council has once again sided with the county hearing examiner, who rejected a high-rise condominium proposal that has for years drawn criticism from neighbors and government authorities. The County Council voted 4-0 this month to uphold Hearing Examiner Peter Camp’s January ruling against the Point Wells development proposal, a mix of homes and businesses planned for an industrial site between Puget Sound and a steep hillside near Woodway. Council Chairwoman Stephanie Wright was absent and excused. Rachel Riley reports. (Everett Herald)

Washington grew but not enough to get another House seat, census figures show
The population of Washington state grew to 7,614,893 from 6,724,540 in the decade between the 2010 census and the 2020 census, which was released today. That’s a 13.2% increase in population, but it’s not enough for Washington to add to its 10 seats in the U.S. House of Representatives. The census figures are used for reapportioning seats in the U.S. House and in the Legislature. Christine Clarridge reports. (Seattle Times)

Trans Mountain pipeline construction ordered paused in B.C. bird nesting area
Environment and Climate Change Canada has ordered a halt to construction of the Trans Mountain pipeline through a forest in Burnaby, B.C., until the end of bird nesting season. The department said the order was issued following an enforcement officer's visit to the site prompted by complaints that nests of the Anna's hummingbird and other migratory birds were being damaged. Hina Alam reports. (CBC)

New tsunami maps show how water could reach Seattle, Everett, Tacoma after an earthquake
Bellingham, Olympia, Seattle, and Tacoma could see anywhere from six inches to 11 feet of water from a tsunami off the Washington coast. Glenn Farley reports. (KING)

Fighting the feedback loop: why scientists are sounding the alarm on Canada’s melting permafrost
Nearly half of Canada’s land mass lies above permafrost. As it thaws, greenhouse gases stored for centuries in the frozen ground are released and once-stable land is susceptible to collapse. Ainslie Cruickshank reports. (The Narwhal)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 249 AM PDT Tue Apr 27 2021
TODAY SW wind to 10 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 10 seconds.
TONIGHT W wind 5 to 15 kt becoming SW after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 10 seconds. A slight chance of rain.

Monday, April 26, 2021

4/26 Rhody, WA legislature, Bangor oysters, gray whale death, dam removals, HEAL Act, Puget Sound springtime, Cascadia renewables

Pacific Rhododendron [Native Plant PNW]

Pacific Rhododendron Rhododendron macrophyllum
The Pacific Rhododendron is also known as the Coast Rhododendron, California Rhododendron, or California Rosebay. Rhododendron macrophyllum literally means, “Rose tree with big leaves.” It is the state flower of Washington State. (Native Plants PNW)

As Washington Legislature wraps up, lawmakers pass a new budget, capital gains tax and clean-fuels standard
A full slate of legislation to overhaul policing. A pair of major climate-change bills. A new budget that expands child care, public health programs and a tax credit for low-income Washingtonians. A slew of equity initiatives. A capital gains tax. In any other year, one or of two of those sets of victories could be considered a major success for Washington’s Democratic state lawmakers and Gov. Jay Inslee. Joseph O'Sullivan reports. (Seattle Times)

Washington Legislature approves caps on carbon pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, giving big win to Inslee, environmentalists
The Washington Legislature has passed a new carbon-pricing bill, handing a major win to Gov. Jay Inslee and making the state only the second in the nation to have such an extensive climate-change reduction policy. The Senate on Saturday voted to approve Senate Bill 5126, sponsored by Sen. Reuven Carlyle, D-Seattle and requested by Inslee. Despite objections from Republicans, lawmakers passed it by a vote of 27-22. It now heads to the governor’s desk. Joseph O'Sullivan reports. (Seattle Times)

Navy, Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe dispute past, future of oyster beds in Bangor
How to measure the success of a recent oyster harvest by the Port Gamble S'Kllalam Tribe within the security fence of Naval Base Kitsap on the shore of Hood Canal? It depends on who you ask. The Navy boasted in a news release that the April 1-2 harvest produced 6,300 oysters and is a part of its work "with the tribes to ensure the Navy’s operations are conducted with minimal impact to Washington’s natural resources and environment." But the S'Kllalam Tribe did not see it that way. In a statement to the Kitsap Sun, the tribe said the Navy's release contained inaccuracies, and the tribe raised concern over the health of the beach where the harvest took place, saying it's at risk because of the upcoming construction of a new pier and trestle. Josh Farley reports. (Kitsap Sun)

Another gray whale stranding in Washington as unusual mortality event appears to persist
Another gray whale has died off the Washington coast. The animal was confirmed dead after stranding in the tidal areas of north Port Susan, east of Camano Island. A spokesman from NOAA Fisheries says the adult male was found in a state of advanced decomposition and remains in shallow water for now. The cause of death is under investigation but is complicated by the state of the whale’s body. Bellamy Paithorp reports. (KNKX)

Tepid approval of dam removals
Removal of the lower Snake River dams has garnered middling support from some officials on the North Olympic Peninsula, where two Elwha River dams were dismantled beginning 10 years ago in the largest project of its kind in the nation’s history. The Port Townsend City Council last week joined the Port Angeles City Council and Jefferson County commissioners in unanimously supporting Republican Idaho Congressman Mike Simpson’s Lower Basin Initiative. But the Clallam Public Utility District has voted to keep the dams, while the Sequim and Forks city councils and Clallam County commissioners have not weighed in on the issue. Forks and county officials said Friday they are tackling more important issues. Paul Gottlieb reports. (Peninsula Daily News)

State agencies will focus on improving environmental justice under new law
A person’s health should not be determined by their income, race or ethnic background nor by the neighborhood in which they live, according to basic principles of environmental justice. Yet studies have shown that these demographic groups tend to suffer from a disproportionate share of environmental problems — from toxic waste to air pollution to water quality. The HEAL Act, approved and ready to be signed by Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, is designed to address the problem in some ways. The legislation, Senate Bill 5141, requires state agencies to look for and try to reduce such disparities in normal agency operations, regulations and practices. Chris Dunagan reports. (Puget Sound Institute)

Ghost shrimp, humpbacks, tiny plankton: See Puget Sound surge with springtime life
Now is the sweet season, with its lengthening days and warm radiance of spring on Puget Sound. The return of the light is rousing the natural world from dormancy. Puget Sound is on the rebound, not only in the turn of the season, but in a resurgence of life. Today there are more humpbacks and gray whales, more harbor porpoises and seals, more sea lions and more orcas in these waters than a generation ago. These surging populations are the result of decades of protection. An exception are southern resident killer whales, an endangered species. They, and the Chinook salmon the southern residents primarily eat, are struggling for survival against an array of threats. Lynda Mapes reports. (Seattle Times)

Studies: Renewable electricity can slash Cascadia pollution, ward off climate change
New research shows that renewable electricity can move Washington, Oregon and British Columbia off of fossil fuels, do so at an affordable price, and create jobs along the way. After decades of reticence from fossil fuel producers and utilities, this may sound like a wishful vision. But building a cleaner and more equitable economy — and doing so in just a few decades to head off the worst effects of climate change — is backed by a growing body of regional and international studies. Peter Fairley reports. (Investigate West)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 156 AM PDT Mon Apr 26 2021
TODAY S wind to 10 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 9 seconds. A slight chance of showers.
TONIGHT W wind 5 to 15 kt becoming to 10 kt after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 9 seconds.

Friday, April 23, 2021

4/23 Grunt sculpin, NOAA orcas, styrofoam, Earth Day2021, Megan Duffy, Kurt Grinnell, Rick Spinrad, BC climate, Dumbo Octo

Grunt Sculpin [Aquarium of the Pacific]

Grunt Sculpin Rhamphocottus richardsonii
Grunt sculpins, the only species in the family Rhamphocottidae, are unique looking marine fish. Distinctive characteristics include a large head that is about 60 percent of the body length, a long snout, and two bony ridges on top of the head. Instead of scales, they have small plates with many minute spines. (Aquarium of the Pacific)

NOAA unveils ambitious five-year plan to save Puget Sound’s struggling orcas
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) unveiled new “action plans” on Thursday, to ensure the recovery of five endangered species, for a list that includes Southern Resident orcas...In its action plan, NOAA detailed a five-year timeline to focus on four main factors: Protection from “harmful vessel impacts,” conserving the orcas’ critical food sources, gaining a better understanding of the species’ health needs, and raising awareness about “the recovery needs” of orcas through sustained outreach and education efforts. Nick Bowman reports. (My Northwest)

Bye-bye Styrofoam coolers: New Washington state law to ban sales of some plastic, require more recycled content in others
Reusing plastic to make new containers has long been much tougher. A bill to make it easier, introduced by [Sen. Mona] Das this session, has been passed by the Legislature and Gov. Jay Inslee is expected to sign it into law. State Senate Bill 5022 would require plastic containers for beverages, household cleaning products and personal care products sold in Washington state to contain up to 50% post-consumer-use recycled content by 2031, and also up the content of recycled material in plastic garbage bags. Hal Bernton reports. (Seattle eTimes)

Earth Day celebration calls on Port of Seattle for a pollution-free Salish Sea
A celebration of Earth Day in honor of the Salish Sea took aim at the Port of Seattle Thursday. Representatives of several groups, including 350.org and the Center for Biological Diversity, called attention to the port’s impact on marine life. Bellamy Pailthorp reports. (KNKX) Plastic to plywood: Earth Day event cleans Anacortes beaches of litter Kimberly Cauvel reports. (Skagit valley Herald)

For WA wildlife and spaces in danger, one woman paddles to the rescue
In May, Megan Duffy will lead the state’s Recreation and Conservation Office, a small-but-mighty division that funds everything from land acquisition to salmon recovery. Hannah Weinberger reports. (Crosscut)

Jamestown S’Klallam tribal councilmember dies
Kurt Grinnell, a Jamestown S’Klallam tribal council member and tribal aquaculture manager, has died. The Clallam County Sheriff’s Office said he died in a single-vehicle wreck on Mount Pleasant Road at about 4:12 p.m. Tuesday...Grinnell was elected to the council in October 2004, according to his biography on the tribe’s website at jamestowntribe.org/tribal-council... A longtime fisherman, he and his wife, Terri, owned Jamestown Seafood. He had served on the Hunting and Fishing Committee for 33 years. He was the policy liaison for the tribe’s Natural Resource Department and chaired the Natural Resource Committee. (Peninsula Daily News) Grinnell was a ‘tower of strength’ (Peninsula Daily News)

Biden taps ocean scientist Rick Spinrad to run NOAA
President Biden has picked Rick Spinrad, an oceanographer with decades of science and policy experience, to run National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the government’s leading agency for weather, climate and ocean science. The White House announced Spinrad’s selection along with several additional climate and environmental nominees, including Tracy Stone-Manning, a senior adviser for the National Wildlife Federation tapped to lead the Interior Department’s Bureau for Land Management. Jason Samenow and Juliet Eilperin report. (Washington Post)

With ‘Piecemeal’ Budget, BC Is Headed Towards Climate Failure, Critics Say
Province’s investments are ‘very, very small compared to the challenges.’ Michelle Gamage reports. (The Tyee) Federal budget gives farmers leg up in reducing carbon pollution Ottawa pegs $270 million for ‘agricultural climate solutions’ to help farmers protect wetlands and adopt practices like cover cropping and rotational grazing. Sharon J. Riley reports. (The Narwhal)

Seeing Inside the Newly Discovered Emperor Dumbo Octopus
The discovery of the emperor Dumbo octopus stemmed from the use of nondestructive MRI and CT scans—techniques that could revolutionize taxonomy. Sarah DeWeerdt reports. (Hakai Magazine)

Now, your weekend tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 225 AM PDT Fri Apr 23 2021
TODAY W wind to 10 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 8 seconds. A slight chance of rain in the afternoon.
TONIGHT SW wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 10 seconds. A chance of rain in the evening then rain after midnight.
SAT S wind to 10 kt. Wind waves 1 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 10 seconds. Rain.
SAT NIGHT NW wind to 10 kt in the evening becoming light. Wind waves 1 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 9 seconds.
SUN SW wind to 10 kt becoming NW 5 to 15 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 9 seconds.

Thursday, April 22, 2021

4/22 Earth Day, US greenhouse gas, carbon surge, Tacoma fuel ban, recycling worth, Fairy Cr protest, SR3, no discharge

Flag of Earth [James Cadle]

Earth Day
Earth Day is an annual event on April 22 to demonstrate support for environmental protection. First held on April 22, 1970, it now includes a wide range of events coordinated globally by EARTHDAY.ORG including 1 billion people in more than 193 countries. (Wikipedia)

Biden commits the U.S. to cutting greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030
President Biden on Thursday declared America “has resolved to take action” on climate change and called on world leaders to significantly accelerate their own plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions or risk a disastrous collective failure to stop catastrophic climate change. In a show of renewed commitment after four years of the Trump administration’s unvarnished climate denial, Mr. Biden formally pledged that the United States would cut its emissions at least in half from 2005 levels by 2030. Lisa Friedman reports (NY Times)

Carbon emissions on track to surge as world rebounds from pandemic
Global carbon emissions are expected to surge this year as parts of the world begin to rebound from the coronavirus pandemic. They are on track to reach the second largest annual rise on record, according to a new projection by the International Energy Agency. Global energy demand is on track to surpass 2019 levels, alongside continued growth in alternative energies, the Paris-based organization found. Miriam Berger reports. (Washington Post)

Tacoma bans use of fossil fuels in new city buildings. Are commercial, residential next?
Tacoma is prohibiting all new city-owned buildings from using natural gas and other fossil fuels energy sources for heating, lighting and power and will explore a similar rule for new residential and commercial buildings. Tacoma City Council unanimously passed a resolution Tuesday that requires new city-owned buildings, and buildings undergoing major renovations, to use low-carbon fuels such as biodiesel, renewable diesel, renewable natural gas or electricity. The new policy will become effective Jan. 1, 2022. Allison Needles reports. (Tacoma News Tribune)

Is recycling worth it anymore? People on the front lines say maybe not
Recycling works, but it’s not magic. As America continues to lead the world in per capita waste production, it’s becoming more and more clear that everybody — from manufacturers to consumers — “over-believes” in recycling. This is a story about responsibility and what happens when everyone keeps trying to pass it off to the next person — and what happens, when finally, there is no next person. Annabel Edwards reports. (NPR)

Activists wait for RCMP to clear old-growth logging blockades on Vancouver Island
A group of activists say they have no intention of ending their anti-logging blockades on Vancouver Island, despite a court injunction and opposition from the political leadership of the Pacheedaht First Nation. Since August, dozens of people have blocked access to roads in Fairy Creek to prevent Teal Cedar, a division of the Teal-Jones Group, from logging the old-growth forest within its 595-square-kilometre tenure... When CBC News visited the area this week, activists, who call themselves forest defenders, said they and hundreds of supporters are ready to be arrested by the RCMP. (CBC)

SR3 SeaLife Rescue Center brings critical care closer for Pacific Northwest marine animals
Even as human impacts cause increasing numbers of animal strandings along beaches in Washington and Oregon, there has been a gap in critical care for them. Till now, there was no marine wildlife hospital in either state dedicated to rehabilitating hurt or sick animals. Enter the SR3 SeaLife Rescue Center in Des Moines, which officially opens Thursday, marked by an Earth Day ribbon-cutting celebration and virtual tour hosted online at 2 p.m. SR3 stands for Sealife Response, Rehab and Research. Bellamy Pailthorp reports. (KNKX)

Mobile app helps boaters follow Puget Sound No Discharge Zone rule
Boating season is right around the corner, and knowing where to pump out your boat’s wastewater is important for following the Puget Sound No Discharge Zone (NDZ) rule. In August 2020, Washington Sea Grant, along with the Washington State Parks Clean Vessel Act grant program, announced that Pumpout Nav, a free app for boaters, had expanded to Washington state. This app is available for both iOS and Android and allows boaters to find one of nearly 200 pumpout and dump stations in Washington, along with hundreds of pumpout facilities in Oregon and California. (My Edmonds News)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 238 AM PDT Thu Apr 22 2021
TODAY SW wind 5 to 15 kt becoming E to 10 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 6 ft at 9 seconds. TONIGHT NW wind to 10 kt becoming SW after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 5 ft at 8 seconds.

Wednesday, April 21, 2021

4/21 Ginkgo, BC old growth, global warming, greenhouse gas, car pollution, Shell emissions, wildfire season, no Salish Sea

Ginkgo [Yale Environment 360]

The Life Story of The Oldest Tree on Earth
Revered for its beauty and its longevity, the ginkgo is a living fossil, unchanged for more than 200 million years. Botanist Peter Crane, who has a written what he calls a biography of this unique tree, talks to Yale Environment 360 about the inspiring history and cultural significance of the ginkgo. Roger Cohn writes. (Yale Environment 360)

No New Money for Old Growth Protection in BC’s Budget
Despite calls to end old-growth logging in B.C. and government promises to overhaul its forestry practices, there is no new funding for that transition in the budget announced today. Instead, the ministry responsible for B.C.’s forest management will see an overall drop in funding over the next three years. The budget comes seven months after the province released a strategic panel review on old-growth logging, which called for a paradigm shift to prioritize ecosystem health over the timber supply and recognize values like biodiversity, clean water and cultural resources. Amanda Follett Hosgood reports. (The Tyee)

Also roaring back from pandemic; earth warming emissions
Global warming emissions are expected to spike this year as the world emerges from the coronavirus pandemic and economies begin to recover. According to a Tuesday report from the International Energy Agency, an intergovernmental group based in Paris, worldwide energy-related carbon dioxide emissions could surge by 1.5 billion metric tons this year, following last year's decline due to the pandemic. According to the IEA, it would be the second-largest annual increase in emissions since 2010 following the global financial crisis of 2008-2009. Matt Ott reports. (Associated Press)

Biden will pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions nearly in half by 2030
President Biden will announce Thursday that the United States intends to cut planet-warming emissions nearly in half by the end of the decade, a target that would require Americans to transform the way they drive, heat their homes and manufacture goods. (NY Times)

Trump administration sidelined experts in writing car pollution rules, EPA watchdog finds
The Trump administration sidelined career staffers at the Environmental Protection Agency when weakening pollution rules for new passenger vehicles, according to a federal watchdog report. The EPA’s inspector general found top political leaders at the agency failed to properly document and consider the concerns of staff experts while unwinding standards for tailpipe emissions set under President Barack Obama. Dino Grandoni reports. (Washington Post)

Officials give notice to Shell refinery on emissions release
The Northwest Clean Air Agency issued Tuesday a violation notice against the Shell Puget Sound Refinery for the release of emissions in August and September. The refinery, on March Point near Anacortes, may face a financial penalty because of the incidents, which impacted the surrounding community including the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, the Skagit Valley Herald reported. (Associated Press)

Early start to Washington’s wildfire season has officials worried
The state Department of Natural Resources responded to 91 fires last week and is gearing up for what could be a bad season with a temporary burn ban on state lands in some parts of Western Washington and the Puget Sound area. The temporary burn restrictions on DNR-protected lands have extended to South Puget Sound in addition to the Northeast, Northwest and Pacific Cascade region, the agency said. Christine Clarridge reports. (Seattle Times)

Why We Should Stop Calling it the Salish Sea
The Salish Sea is a misnomer. The geographic term was put forward in 1988 by Bellingham marine biologist Ben Webber who, to focus popular attention on environmental issues confronting the region, believed that a single name would be more effective than having to separately identify the Georgia Strait, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Puget Sound (which extends southward from Port Townsend). The idea is sound; the use of the term is not. David Buerge writes. (Post Alley)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 253 AM PDT Wed Apr 21 2021
TODAY Light wind becoming NW 10 to 20 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves 1 to 3 ft. W swell 6 ft at 10 seconds. Areas of fog in the morning.
TONIGHT W wind 10 to 20 kt becoming SW to 10 kt after midnight. Wind waves 1 to 3 ft. W swell 5 ft at 9 seconds. Patchy fog after midnight.

Tuesday, April 20, 2021

4/20 Gumweed, Deepwater Horizon, First Nations fishing, Haaland revokes Trump, travel bans, fish out of water

Gumweed [Mary Jo Adams]

Gumweed Grindelia integrifolia
Grindelia integrifolia belongs to the sunflower family. These shrub-like plants grow to 2-1/2 feet in height and are laden with bright yellow sunflower-like blooms that reach a diameter of 2-1/2 inches. Immature flower heads have a bur-like appearance and exude a white sticky substance. This species blooms from June until November. Other common names for this plant are Puget Sound gumweed, resinweed, gum plant, and entire leaved gumweed. (Mary Jo Adams/Sound Water Stewards)

What was the Deepwater Horizon disaster?
On April 20, 2010, the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico exploded, killing 11 people. Two days later, the rig capsized, and the damaged pipe below the rig began spewing oil into the surrounding water. Oil continued to spill from the pipe for 87 days, releasing an estimated 377,514 metric tonnes into the Gulf. Jen Monnier reports. (LiveScience)

First Nations on Vancouver Island celebrate B.C. Court of Appeal fisheries ruling
The British Columbia Court of Appeal says it expects Canada to remedy problems in commercial fishery regulations arising from a legal battle that was first launched in 2003 by a group of Vancouver Island First Nations. Justice Harvey Groberman wrote in a decision released Monday that while there is no demonstrated need to make mandatory orders, they would "remain available if Canada does not act diligently to remedy the problems." A three-judge panel of the Appeal Court unanimously upheld parts of an April 2018 ruling by the B.C. Supreme Court that found Canada's regulation and management of regular commercial fisheries unjustifiably infringed on the First Nations' rights to harvest and sell fish. In that judgment, Justice Mary Humphries gave Ottawa one year to offer the plaintiffs opportunities to exercise their rights to harvest and sell salmon, groundfish, crab and prawn in a manner that remedied those infringements. (Canadian Press)

Interior head Haaland revokes Trump-era orders on energy
Interior Secretary Deb Haaland on Friday revoked a series of Trump administration orders that promoted fossil fuel development on public lands and waters, and issued a separate directive that prioritizes climate change in agency decisions. Matthew Daly reports. (Associated Press)

BC Changes COVID Course: Travel Bans and Vaccine for Those Over 40
British Columbia will expand AstraZeneca vaccine eligibility to people over 40, extend current “circuit-breaker” restrictions through the May long weekend, and impose travel restrictions as COVID-19 cases begin to stretch hospitals to their limits. Moira Wyton reports. (The Tyee) State Department To Issue Travel Warnings Amid 'Unprecedented' COVID-19 Risks The U.S. State Department on Monday announced plans to expand travel advisories, urging U.S. citizens to stay home as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to pose "unprecedented risks" around the globe. Vanessa Romo reports. (NPR)

What To Do with Fish When the River Runs Dry
When people come to the aid of stranded fish, are the salvaged truly saved? Laura Trethewey reports. (Hakai Magazine)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 245 AM PDT Tue Apr 20 2021
TODAY W wind to 10 kt becoming NW in the afternoon. Wind waves 1 ft or less. W swell 5 ft at 12 seconds.
TONIGHT W wind 5 to 15 kt becoming SW to 10 kt after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 6 ft at 11 seconds.

Monday, April 19, 2021

4/19 Garter snake, WA carbon pricing, WA salmon season, Whatcom Cr hatchery, renewable energy, Betsy Weatherhead, whale culture, great shot

Garter snake [Burke Museum]

Garter snake Thamnophis sirtalis
Common Gartersnake coloration varies among localities, with up to 13 subspecies described based appearance across their North American distribution. In Washington, two subspecies can be found. The Puget Sound Gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis pickeringii, pictured), which is slender and black with turquoise or black bellies and bright yellow or turquoise dorsal and lateral stripes and occasional vertical red flecks on their sides The Valley Gartersnake (Thamnophis sirtalis fitchi), which often has more pronounced red blotches in on the sides, thicker yellow dorsal and lateral stripes, and often red bellies. (Burke Museum)

The future of WA transportation hinges on carbon pricing debate
Top legislators want to put a price on carbon to raise money for transportation projects. But with time running out, they can’t agree on the details. Melissa Santos reports. (Crosscut)

Washington salmon seasons tentatively set for 2021-22
Despite a strong projected coho return to the state’s ocean waters, this year’s Washington salmon seasons largely reflect continued low runs of some wild Chinook and coho stocks, especially in Puget Sound, state fishery managers announced yesterday. The state's 2021-22 salmon fishing seasons, developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and treaty tribal co-managers, were tentatively set Thursday at the end of a week-long Pacific Fishery Management Council meeting held via webinar. (WDFW/iFIBRE One)

These BTC students’ efforts ‘will have a cascading effect on future generations’ of salmon
At a fish hatchery near the mouth of Whatcom Creek, on land that was an indigenous village before white settlers arrived, biology students are working to boost salmon runs and help save the endangered Salish Sea orcas. “If we get back one fish that feeds somebody, we’ve done the right thing,” said Steven Solomon of Lummi Nation’s Natural Resources Department. Solomon told The Bellingham Herald that his great-grandfather lived in a small dwelling on the creek near Bellingham Bay in the early 1900s, and salmon provided food for all tribal members, not just his family. Robert Mittendorf reports. (Bellingham Herald)

Renewable Electricity Is Coming on Strong
BC and all of Cascadia could move off fossil fuels, say new models. Moving fast is key, say experts. Peter Fairley reports. (The Tyee)

White House removes scientist picked by Trump official to lead key climate report
Betsy Weatherhead, chosen to steer the government’s National Climate Assessment, has been reassigned to the U.S. Geological Survey. Jason Samenow reports. (Washington Post)

Photos: The Culture Of Whales
Brian Skerry says it was "the stuff of dreams" to be in the water with a nursing sperm whale. The National Geographic photographer and explorer dove into Caribbean waters to capture what he believes to be a unique image. He got within a few meters to get the shot...That moment produced one of several rare images in a new issue of National Geographic magazine, the culmination of Skerry's three-year project exploring the culture of whales. Taylor Haney reports. (NPR)

One Great Shot: When Dinner Will Not Go Gently
A photographer witnesses the struggle between a gull and a freshly hatched sea turtle. Jake Wilton reports. (Hakai Magazine)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 255 AM PDT Mon Apr 19 2021
TODAY W wind to 10 kt becoming E 10 to 20 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves 1 ft or less building to 1 to 3 ft in the afternoon. W swell 2 ft at 9 seconds.
TONIGHT W wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 11 seconds.

Friday, April 16, 2021

4/16 Green frog, WA electric vehicles, Canada subsidies, Vancouver Aquarium, people climate advice, Skagit Land Trust, life in plastic

Green Frog [Heidi Rockney/Burke Museum]

Green Frog Lithobates clamitans
Green frogs are not native Washington State; they are native to the Eastern United States. They prefer marshes, ponds, steam and lakes, typically with slow water with lots of plants. They have been introduced into two areas in Washington State—- Toad Lake in Whatcom County and Lake Gillette in Stevens County. (Burke Museum)

Washington sets ambitious goal: All new cars sold will be electric by 2030
In less than a decade, all cars and light-duty vehicles sold in Washington will be powered by electricity, not fossil fuels. That’s the goal set within legislation that has passed the state House and Senate. The 2030 timeline is now part of a bill that aims to prepare the state for a zero-emissions transportation future. It’s on its way to Gov. Jay Inslee for signing. The original Clean Cars 2030 bill would have mandated the goal. It is instead now a target. Bellamy Pailthorp reports. (KNKX)

Canada’s oil and gas sector received $18 billion in subsidies, public financing during pandemic: report
Despite long-held promises to phase out fossil fuel subsidies, Ottawa increased assistance to the industry in 2020 with public funding for pipelines, inactive well clean-up and policing of Indigenous opponents. Sarah Cox reports. (The Narwhal)

Vancouver Aquarium sold to U.S. tourism company
The Vancouver Aquarium has been sold to Herschend Enterprises, a privately owned tourism company based in the United States, to avoid shutting down as a result of financial losses over the past year. The aquarium announced the sale from Ocean Wise Conservation Association on Thursday, saying the deal was made "to save the aquarium from permanent closure as a result of severe financial challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic." (CBC)

A first for Washington, locals advise lawmakers on climate change
Everyday people gathered for the first Washington Climate Assembly to learn about and decide which solutions to prioritize. Now, it’s lawmakers’ move. Mandy Godwin reports. (Crosscut)

Skagit Land Trust completes purchase of property at entrance to Samish Island
About a month after launching a campaign to raise money to buy 50 acres at the entrance to Samish Island, the Skagit Land Trust was able to purchase the property...The land will be managed with the neighboring Samish Flower Farm — about 34 acres the land trust purchased in 2019 — and a neighboring conservation easement as the Samish Island Conservation Area. Kimberly Cauvel reports. (Skagit Valley Herald)

The Plastic Cradles of Life
Trash heaps deep in the ocean have attracted an array of creatures to live—and even spawn—on them. Are these dumps actually biodiversity hotspots? Carolyn Wilke reports. (Hakai Magazine)

Salish Sea News Week in Review 4/19/21: Garlic Friday, Fairy Cr., BC herring WA WQ, Tacoma LNG, Cherry Pt tank farm, toxic rules, Fukushima water, orca tracking, Billy Frank Jr statute, Van Aquarium, WA electric cars

Now, your weekend tug weather--

West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 217 AM PDT Fri Apr 16 2021
TODAY SE wind to 10 kt becoming E 5 to 15 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 12 seconds.
TONIGHT E wind to 10 kt becoming SE after midnight. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 10 seconds.
SAT E wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 4 ft at 12 seconds.
SAT NIGHT Light wind. Wind waves less than 1 ft. W swell 3 ft at 11 seconds.
SUN E wind to 10 kt. Wind waves 1 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 11 seconds.

--
Mike Sato, Managing Editor
Salish Current (206) 229-2844
Real journalism. Local. Powerful.

Thursday, April 15, 2021

4/15 Spotted frog, Billy Frank Jr statue, Fairy Cr logging, orca tracking, social distancing, Gig Harbor Tik Tok

Oregon Spotted Frog [Heidi Rockney/Burke Museum]

Oregon Spotted Frog Rana pretiosa
The Oregon Spotted Frog is currently very threatened in Washington state, having disappeared from 70-90% of their range. They prefer marshes, wetlands, ponds, or other slow moving quiet water. (Burke Museum)

Billy Frank Jr. in, Marcus Whitman out as part of U.S. Capitol statue swap
...A bill signed by Gov. Jay Inslee on Wednesday begins the process of putting a statue of the late tribal treaty rights activist Billy Frank Jr. in the U.S. Capitol. The Frank statue would replace one of Oregon Trail pioneer Marcus Whitman. The larger-than-life bronze of Whitman has stood in the U.S. Capitol's Statuary Hall for nearly 70 years. Each state is allowed to represent itself on Capitol Hill by contributing two bronze or marble historical figures to the national statuary collection. Tom Banse reports. (NW News Network)

Split in First Nation membership over anti-logging blockades at B.C. old-growth forest
The dispute over blockades aimed at preventing old-growth trees from being logged in Pacheedaht territory on southwest Vancouver Island has revealed divisions within the First Nation's membership. A statement issued by two Pacheedaht chiefs this week says they're "concerned about the increasing polarization over forestry activities'' in the territory, and decisions about forestry must be made by the nation. But the Rainforest Flying Squad, whose members set up camp last August to block Teal Cedar Products from accessing proposed cutblocks in and around the Fairy Creek watershed, says they're not planning to leave. They say in a statement that Pacheedaht Elder Bill Jones and other members of the nation welcome the blockades, maintained largely by non-Indigenous people calling for an end to old-growth logging in B.C. (Canadian Press)

Tracking Orcas with Tech: ‘The Images Took Our Breath Away’
UBC scientists attached cameras to drones, and the whales themselves. Here’s the result. Kerry Banks reports. (The Tyee)

We could learn a thing or two about social distancing from animal kingdom
Scientists have found that many species in the animal kingdom, including several found in the Pacific Northwest, practice social distancing. Some species of insects, fish, monkeys, rodents, birds and bats all have been observed using forms of social distancing when illness or pathogens are present. Yes Burns reports. (OPB)

This Gig Harbor non-profit is teaching TikTok about the Salish Sea
On any given day, you may see Rachel Easton and Stena Troyer on any given Washington beach - peeking under rocks, picking up kelp and showing off crabby creatures on camera, all for the love of the Salish Sea...and Harbor WildWatch! Over the years, Harbor WildWatch has visited classrooms around Washington. Once the pandemic hit, though, they went completely digital - and in turn, have reached even more people thanks to TikTok. Ellen Many reports. (KING)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 219 AM PDT Thu Apr 15 2021
TODAY E wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 12 seconds.
TONIGHT Light wind becoming SE to 10 kt after midnight. Wind waves less than 1 ft becoming 1 ft or less after midnight. W swell 3 ft at 13 seconds.

Wednesday, April 14, 2021

4/14 Tailed frog, Phillips 66 tank farm, WA toxic rules, Hood Canal Bridge, Fukushima wastewater, 'murder hornets,' WA coast cleanup, gray whale infection, TM spill

Coastal Tailed Frog [Heidi Rockney/Burke Museum]

Coastal Tailed Frog Ascaphus truei
The Coastal Tailed Frog is found from the Cascade mountains to the coast; in higher mountain elevations, the population in southeastern Washington has recently been separated into a different species, Ascaphus montanus. It is one of the most primitive of all frogs and their closest living relatives are in New Zealand. (Burke Museum)

‘A Win for Whales’-Court pauses Cherry Point refinery expansion
Hailed as a victory for orcas, Whatcom County Superior Court rejected a project application from the Phillips 66 Ferndale Refinery to install a 300,000-barrel crude oil storage tank and an 80,000-barrel floating storage tank for fuel oil in a tank farm within the refinery at Cherry Point. The decision could require the Phillip’s 66 refinery to provide additional details about the purpose and specifics of the proposed storage facility. Tim Johnson reports. (Cascadia Weekly)

Revised toxic-cleanup rules will increase focus on environmental justice
Support for environmental justice is being carefully woven into new toxic-cleanup rules for prioritizing and carrying out cleanups at thousands of contaminated sites across Washington state. Chris Dunagan writes. (Puget Sound Institute)

Why Aren't Steelhead Making It Past The Hood Canal Bridge?
The Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe has been trying to figure out why juvenile steelhead are not getting past the Hood Canal Bridge. Traffic noise? Light pollution? Water quality? Wave action? Dissolved oxygen issues? Nope. Mostly, it’s the bridge itself. (NW Treaty Tribes)

Japan To Dump Wastewater From Wrecked Fukushima Nuclear Plant Into Pacific Ocean
Japan's government announced a decision to begin dumping more than a million tons of treated but still radioactive wastewater from the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant into the Pacific Ocean in two years. The plant was severely damaged in a 2011 magnitude 9.0 quake and tsunami that left about 20,000 people in northeast Japan dead or missing. Anthony Kuhn reports. (NPR)

New rules aim to help Washington state fight ‘murder hornets’ and protect us from them
All species of hornets, including “murder hornets,” would be added to the list of quarantined pests under new rules being considered by the Washington state Department of Agriculture. A hearing will be held on the proposed rules on May 11. (Associated Press)

Washington coast cleanup set for Saturday
Eight thousand pounds: Piece by piece, it got picked up from beaches across the North Olympic Peninsula in September, making the coast cleaner. This Saturday, another Washington CoastSavers Cleanup will bring people out to the water, albeit to fewer beaches than usual. Diane Urbani de la Paz reports. (Peninsula Daily News)

Federal scientists keep an eye on tagged gray whale after possible infection
Federal scientists say a gray whale that might have developed complications from a satellite tag appears to be doing OK. It was tagged by NOAA Fisheries in September as part of a pilot study to track the movements of about 250 gray whales. Bellamy Pailthorp reports. (KNKX) Grey whale off Vancouver Island given antibiotics after lesions found around tag site (Canadian Press)

Failed fitting caused 190,000 litre spill at Trans Mountain site in B.C.
A Transportation Safety Board report says the failure of a fitting on a section of narrow tubing at a Trans Mountain pumping station in British Columbia was the cause of a crude oil spill last year. The investigation report into the spill on June 12, 2020, at the Trans Mountain Sumas pump station in Abbotsford confirms as much as 190,000 litres of crude, roughly 1,200 barrels, leaked when the fitting separated on the one-inch tube. (Canadian Press)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 255 AM PDT Wed Apr 14 2021
TODAY E wind to 10 kt becoming 5 to 15 kt in the afternoon. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 13 seconds.
TONIGHT W wind 5 to 15 kt easing to 10 kt after midnight. Wind waves 1 to 2 ft subsiding to 1 ft or less after midnight. W swell 3 ft at 13 seconds.

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

4/13 Red-legged frog, BC COVID, Fairy Cr protest, WA water quality, greenhouse gas, Tacoma LNG, wildfire smoke, crab factory, hybrid ermine

Red-legged Frog [Heidi Rockney/Burke Museum]

Northern Red-legged Frog Rana aurora
The Northern Red-legged Frog is found primarily west of the Cascade Mountains in Washington state. They prefer forest wetlands and quiet, permanent water and have been known to live as long as 15 years in the wild (in colder areas of range). They have very quiet voices and are not often heard by humans, sometimes calling underwater. (Burke Museum)

B.C. confirms 3rd wave of COVID-19 has arrived, as number of patients in ICU hits record high
Another 3,289 cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed in B.C. over the last three days and 18 more people have died, while the number of patients in critical care with the disease has risen to a record high, health officials announced Monday. Bethany Lindsay reports. (CXX)

As Fairy Creek blockaders brace for arrests, B.C.’s failure to enact old-growth protections draws fire
The Pacheedaht First Nation is asking protesters to withdraw from its territory, where a battle is brewing to protect some of the province’s last-remaining ancient trees. It’s a battle some say could have been prevented if the government followed its own advice. Jesse Winter reports. (The Narwhal) First Nation says old-growth activists not welcome in Fairy Creek area Darron Kloster reports. (Victoria Times Colonist)

Washington’s Water Quality Assessment offers insights into status of pollution
More than 2,000 segments of streams, lakes and marine waters have been added to the state’s massive list of water-quality data, allowing more Washington residents to take stock of pollution levels near their homes. The latest Water Quality Assessment for Washington waters, released for public review this week, covers 9,279 miles of streams, 434 lakes and 619 square miles of marine waters. One can use the statewide Draft Water Quality Atlas to zoom in on places of interest and review available information on a given water body. This vast database, which contains 65 million data entries, is managed by the Washington Department of Ecology. It is used to list polluted water bodies as “impaired” — designated Category 5 — if they fail to meet state water quality standards. If they are not so bad or data is insufficient, they may be listed in categories from 1 to 4. Chris Dunagan reports. (Puget Sound Institute)

Canada's greenhouse gas emissions increased slightly in first year of carbon tax: report
Greenhouse gas emissions in Canada ticked up slightly in 2019 — the first year that the national carbon pricing mechanism was in place — according to a new report published today by Environment and Climate Change Canada. Canada produced 730 megatonnes of carbon dioxide emissions in 2019, an increase of one megatonne — or 0.2 per cent — over 2018, which means Canada will have to do more in the years ahead to meaningful reduce emissions to meet the targets set at the Paris climate summit. The federal department said the economy grew faster than emissions did in 2019 — which means the country's "emissions intensity" is lower than it has been in the past. John Paul Tasker reports. (CBC)

The fight over Tacoma’s liquified-natural gas plant continues. Will permits be upheld?
Attorneys made opening statements Monday in front of the Pollution Control Hearings Board about whether the board should overturn permits for the liquefied natural gas facility on the Tacoma Tideflats. Environmental organizations and the Puyallup Tribe of Indians appealed to try to invalidate permits the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency issued for the Puget Sound Energy facility. They argue the agency underestimated the effects of the project on the climate and that changes to the design of the facility require additional review of health and safety impacts. If the board agrees, the Clean Air Agency would need to redo its environmental analysis and permit process. Alexis Krell reports. (Tacoma News Tribune)

How Dangerous Is Wildfire Smoke?
California Today: Ahead of a likely severe wildfire season, researchers suggest pollution from wildfires is more toxic than pollution from other sources. Jill Cowan reports. (NY Times)

Richmond crab processing factory fined more than $110K for obstructing inspection, other violations
A seafood processing company in Richmond and a commercial fisherman have together been fined more than $110,000 for violating Canada's Fisheries Act. On Sept. 8, 2018, a Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) officer inspected Tenshi Seafood Limited — a large crab processing, distribution and exporting plant. (CBC)

Scientists discover hybrid ermine species isolated in Haida Gwaii for 300,000 years
like creature has a new designation, according to a scientist from the University of Kansas. The Haida ermine is now one of three distinct ermines that can be found in only two places in the world. The mammal was first thought to be unique in 2013 but after examining its DNA and skull, scientists discovered that the animal is so vastly different from ermines found in other parts of the world, it is now considered to be its own species. (CBC)

Now, your tug weather--
West Entrance U.S. Waters Strait Of Juan De Fuca- 251 AM PDT Tue Apr 13 2021
TODAY E wind 5 to 15 kt. Wind waves 2 ft or less. W swell 2 ft at 16 seconds.
TONIGHT W wind to 10 kt becoming NW after midnight. Wind waves 1 ft or less. W swell 3 ft at 14 seconds.