Research and Education

  Blue Coast led this Estuary and Salmon Recovery Program Learning Grant, which developed updated restoration design guidelines for the main channel entrance of barrier embayments in Puget Sound. This study ended in 2023 and the final report can be found here.  

 Blue Coast is leading this Estuary and Salmon Recovery Program Learning Grant, which is evaluating nearshore sediment transport in Puget Sound and developing a predictive model to be used for restoration design. This study is on-going and study information can be found here.  

 Blue Coast is leading this Estuary and Salmon Recovery Program Learning Grant, which is evaluating large wood in Puget Sound and developing guidelines for use in restoration. This study is on-going and study information can be found here.  

  Blue Coast is leading this Estuary and Salmon Recovery Program Learning Grant, which is starting in 2024. This work will combine what was learned about barrier embayments in the tidal channel design study and mapping work completed by others to develop the online beach strategies tool and create a tool that maps barrier embayments in Puget Sound to help guide restoration of this shoreform.    

 Blue Coast has worked with Mid-Sound Fisheries Enhancement Group, Northwest Straits Foundation, and the Stillaguamish Indian Tribal Community’s Shore Friendly programs to develop workshops and curriculums for virtual and in-person workshops and informational beach walks aimed at educating shoreline property owners about the ecological and physical processes at work on their shoreline. The workshops focus on coastal processes, nearshore ecology, vegetation, drainage, and shore protection.  

 Blue Coast is working with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, Department of Ecology, and Sea Grant to develop and teach four coastal training classes to educate professionals, regulators, and the public on methods of shoreline stabilization as alternatives to hard armor. Course 3 is on how to conduct a coastal site assessment including coastal processes, drainage, vegetation, cultural resources and infrastructure. Course 4 is on demonstration of need and alternatives analysis to determine shoreline treatments. Course 5 teaches techniques which can be implemented for erosion control and Course 6 is the effects of sea level rise and climate change as they relate to shoreline armoring.