Getting Involved

 

Whether you want to collect data, lend a helping hand, or continue to learn, there are lots of ways you can get involved with science activities near you. Below are just a few groups doing amazing things. This is not an exhaustive list but a little of everything.  Find what excites you and get involved.

Community Science

  • Whale mAPP
    Whale mAPP is a collection of GIS-based web and mobile tools to allow citizen scientists to collect observations of marine mammals. 
  • Sea Lion and Seal spotter(pdf)
    Use this form to report pinniped sightings in the Columbia River Basin to Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife. 
  • Surfrider
    This foundation is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world's ocean, waves and beaches for all people.
  • King Tide Project
    Understanding and documenting the extent and impacts of especially high tide events is one way to highlight the need to prepare for the effects of future climate conditions. You are invited to participate in the project by taking pictures of areas impacted by king tides and sharing your photos.
  • Shark Sightings Report 
    Use this form to report any shark sightings in Oregon waters to OSU’s Big Fish Lab. These data are invaluable in learning more about shark movements and numbers in our region. 
  • iNaturalist Projects
    Projects let you pool your observations with other people on iNaturalist. Check out existing projects or start your own.
  • MidCoast Watershed Council
    Volunteers directly contribute to watershed restoration projects along the Oregon central coast.
  • Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST)
    In COASST, science is a team sport played by coastal residents and scientists working together to collect, verify, analyze, and communicate high-quality data of direct relevance to scientific understanding of system processes and function, and natural resource management and decision-making.  Check out volunteer training events.
  • Science Near Me
    Find a way to participate in science or serve your community by helping with a project near you.

Volunteering

  • Hatfield Visitor Center
    Engage with visitors from around the world as they explore exhibits about the natural wonders of the Oregon coast and cutting-edge marine research.
  • SOLVE
    SOLVE restores and preserves Oregon’s environment by mobilizing the power of volunteers and partners with the generosity of donors.
  • MidCoast Watershed Council
    Volunteers directly contribute to restoring watersheds within the program's working area.
  • Surfrider
    This foundation is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world's ocean, waves and beaches for all people.
  • Washed Ashore
    Art to save the sea.

Learn more

  • Hatfield Visitor Center
    Located in Newport, the VC welcomes visitors to learn about marine species, research and the local coastal environment.
  • Go on a QUEST
    Quests are fun, free-choice learning adventures that use clues and hints to encourage participants to discover the natural, cultural and historical "treasures" of place and community.
  • IndividuWhale
    This website lets people meet the whales of the PNW and learn about some of its most iconic gray whales.
  • Surfrider
    This foundation is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world's ocean, waves and beaches for all people.
  • Washed Ashore
    Art to save the sea.

 

* There are many groups where you can get involved in local science and volunteer activities. The presence of an organization on this list does not mean they are endorsed by Hatfield Marine Science Center.