Had a very satisfying day out in Bolinas working with some folks from Marin County Parks and their volunteers. The county was hosting an restoration day, focusing on removing some of the huge quantity of non-native ice plant growing on Kent Island (which is out in the lagoon, right across from the field station). Afterwards, Dan and I opened up the field station so the parks staff and all the volunteers could come and meet the critters.
First thing in the morning, we stepped into a rowboat for the long and arduous boat ride to Kent Island. There were times when I didn’t think we were going to make it, but through the valiant efforts of the county parks staff, we were safely shuttled across the wide expanse of lagoon. (The total distance by boat was maybe 20 feet). I’m quite certain this is the shortest boat ride I’ve ever taken. 😀
Out on the island, they gave us an orientation to the island and the work we’d be doing, and then we headed over to the northwest part of the island, and started pulling iceplant. It’s not the most difficult task, but I definitely got a workout. It’s pretty satisfying, though, to see the ice plant piled up at the end of the day. We also had some nice sightings: an Osprey overhead, and a lot of native plants. Plus, we found the skull of a Pacific Harbor Seal – a very interesting find!
After the work session, an impressive lunch was provided, and we ate in the shade of the non-native trees on the island (trees that are slowly dying, and won’t be replaced when they’re gone, allowing the island to return to a more historic state).
After lunch, we made the death-defying crossing back to civilization, and then it was time for some fun in the field station! All the folks from the parks as well as the volunteers were super excited about being able to visit the station for the first time. (“Wait? You mean we can GO INSIDE?” – Actual comment from one of the park staff). Everyone enjoyed the sea tables, and it was a great way to end our day. I expect that we’ll be collaborating with Marin County Parks many times in the future.
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