Friday Harbor Marine Health Observatory is a long term year-round research project that aims to create a measurement of the health of the Port of Friday Harbor by counting marine invertebrates throughout the year and noting changes in populations, diversity, location, and seasonality. Seven teams of 2-3 volunteers are each assigned a section of a dock, and once a month they monitor their section for about two hours. Monitors also collect environmental data such as water visibility, temperature, depth and weather, and take water samples to measure for water quality.
Project Goals To inspire appreciation of the amazing marine biodiversity in our own front yard. To inventory local marine diversity and share this knowledge with islanders, visitors, and other researchers. To teach responsible marine stewardship and foster respect for marine animals and plants. To improve our understanding of the human activities that affect local marine life so we as a community can work to reduce our environmental impact. To involve island schools in meaningful research and discoveries. To keep the waters of Friday Harbor clean and healthy. This waterfront is our window on the sea: a legacy making our community unique.
Friday Harbor Marine Health Observatory is supported by the Port of Friday Harbor and Kwiaht, a county-wide research cooperative.
