TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Introduction....................................................................................................................................... 3

 

Phase II Report.................................................................................................................................... 4

 

Appendices............................................................................................................................................. 9

WEBS Meeting Notes, Oct. 11, 2004............................................................................................................................................ 10

WEBS Meeting Notes, Apr. 29, 2005............................................................................................................................................ 13

WEBS Meeting Notes, Sept. 30, 2005........................................................................................................................................... 16

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WEBS Phase II Report

September 2004 – December 2005

David Heil & Associates, Inc.

 

 

 

Introduction

 

Early in 2004, a group of Netarts and Oceanside residents and stakeholders gathered to create a vision for the future of the area between Cape Meares and Cape Lookout – in general, Netarts Bay and vicinity. Netarts resident Jim Mundell brought the group together to develop an educational approach to community stewardship, and hired David Heil & Associates, Inc. (DHA) of Portland, OR to facilitate the process. The group named itself the Netarts Bay Watershed, Estuary, Beach and Sea (WEBS) Advisory Committee, and created a vision statement and implementation plan.

 

 

The Vision Statement

WEBS (Watershed, Estuary, Beach, Sea) is a community committed to sustainability through education. As a result of education efforts by WEBS, by the 2012, the Netarts Watershed will be recognized throughout the Pacific Northwest as a unique, pristine, and treasured ecosystem, providing opportunities for recreation, enjoyment, appreciation, and learning. Encouraged and led by WEBS, the local community will support and be engaged in the sustained stewardship of Netarts beaches, estuary, wetlands, and watersheds, resulting in their protection and preservation to provide a permanent habitat for wildlife, a resource for learning, a spectacular venue for recreation, a model for other communities, and a continuing source of enhancement of the local economy and quality of life.


 

 

DHA made recommendations for WEBS program development, and submitted a plan for the facilitation of that development to Jim Mundell. The plan was approved and DHA began working with WEBS to develop an education and community-based approach that would result in a “learning community” in the Netarts Bay area.

 

WEBS activities are planned in phases. The report from the initial planning period, “Netarts Bay Watershed Phase I Planning Report,” can be viewed at www.netartsbaytoday.org.


 

Phase II Report

 

 

The following report is organized by the elements of the Scope of Work in the Phase II Contract between Jim Mundell and David Heil & Associates, Inc. for the period September 2004 to December 2005.

 

 

1. Develop formal WEBS Advisory Committee structure and membership, and convene committee to initiate Phase II planning and implementation.

 

WEBS held three meetings during the period; recorded notes from each of these meetings can be reviewed in the Appendices, page 9. Official WEBS membership invitations were distributed in January 2005, requesting that accepting members choose a one, two, or three-year term to prevent all members from experiencing expiring terms simultaneously. Members accepting included:

 

One-year term (expires Jan. 1, 2006)

·         Chuck Beasley/Lindy O’Sullivan

·         Sue Cudd/Mark Weigardt

·         Barbara Phelps

·         Bob Rees

·         Bernie Wolff

 

Two year term (expires Jan. 1, 2007)

·         Pete Marvin

·         Mark/Louise Merkens

·         Lisa Phipps

 

Three year term (expires Jan 1, 2008)

·         Lenora Lawrence

·         Sam Mulder

·         Jim Mundell

·         Jane Scott

·         Mark Trenholm/Suzan Greenwood

 

New member Jim Young joined WEBS during Phase II.

 

 

2. Review vision statement and Phase I Report, including recommendations, proposed timeline, and strategies discussed to date.

 

The vision statement and Phase I Report, including DHA recommendations for Phase II and beyond, were reviewed at the October 11, 2004 WEBS meeting. Strategies to accomplish the elements discussed in the Phase I Report were reviewed and prioritized.

 

3. Articulate and prioritize specific program and community outreach strategies for initial development in each program area.

 

At the October 11 meeting, WEBS prioritized a list of proposed strategies to implement through 2012 (Point totals for each reflect the relative strength given the strategy during the prioritization process.):

 

#1. Develop a first class website that includes natural phenomena including seasonal changes and bird sightings, events, information from research, links to local businesses, and other interesting material. (28 points)

 

#2. Develop a system of self-guided auto, bike and walking trails that interpret natural and human history and other subjects. (15 points)

 

#3. Develop a program for visitors that utilizes local citizen experts to interpret area natural history, natural resources management, and social history. (12 points)

 

#4. Develop thematic gatherings and events for families (such as “Welcome the Whales Day” model). (11 points)

 

#5. Develop a partnership with local schools to offer “service learning” opportunities that fit the WEBS vision to students. (11 points)

 

#6. Develop one or more education workshops in collaboration with State

     Parks or other local entity for families and children. (7 points)

 

#7. Develop a community education program (‘Salmonpeople” model or “Pledge Program” model). (7 points)

 

#8. Develop a system of trails and boardwalks to include such areas as Bay Road and salt march areas (a boat launch for non-motorized boats was added). (4 points)

 

#9. Develop a coastal history and archeology interpretive center at Cape Lookout State Park or other location. (1 point)

 

#10. Develop a “local authors” publication. (0 points)

 

 

4. Identify suitable funding source(s), strategic partners, and collaborators for prioritized strategies. Assist in establishing formal agreements where appropriate.

 

Initial steps were taken by WEBS and Tillamook Estuaries Partnership (TEP) to begin the formation of a coalition of Tillamook County schools, agencies, and interest groups to host “Salmonpeople,” a dramatic and educational program that emphasizes sustainable communities, using salmon as an icon.

 

The major web site development task of linking the site to existing research and other materials about the Netarts area presented two challenges: almost none of the existing research is digitized for web use, and space on the web site itself could not accomodate the numerous documents available. A partnership between Oregon State University Hatfield Marine Science Center Library at Newport, Oregon Sea Grant at Corvallis, and WEBS was formed with funding approval pending at this time. If approved, an exhaustive search of Netarts-related documents and research will be conducted, the resulting documents digitized and carried on the University web site, making them available as links on the WEBS website.

 

A partnership between Tillamook School District, South Prairie Elementary School, Hatfield Marine Science Center, TEP, and WEBS was formed to plan and implement a “Second Grade Day on the Bay” Day at Netarts Bay. This event is scheduled for April of 2006, and will bring second graders from South Prairie Elementary to the estuary and ocean for educational experiences.

 

An initial contact was made with Dr. Scott Carley, Knowledge Arts, Seattle, WA, regarding the possibility of creating a virtual field interpretation system that could be accessed either by web site or by hand-held device that would provide interpretive information for Netarts Bay and other Tillamook Co. estuaries and uplands. A similar effort in Bamfield, British Columbia, entitled “Bamfield Huu Ay Aht Community Archive & Adventure” (www.bhkadventure.com) is almost complete. WEBS is awaiting completion of that model before proposing a similar project for Tillamook County, in partnership with TEP.

 

 

5. Research and pilot highest priority strategies.

 

WEBS developed “Netarts Bay Today,” a unique website that informs interested residents, property owners, tourists and students about the many natural and cultural resources of the Netarts area. Working with Webmaster Jerry Reneau of Netarts, WEBS designed and is now creating informative articles, developing processes that will add local news and event updates, photo submission, and “guest book” entries to the site. WEBS members Barbara Phelps volunteered to be Netarts Bay Today’s first editor, and Jim Young is writing the articles. Additionally, as noted above, WEBS is hopeful that funding to make available research and other information available on the website will be realized.

 

WEBS member Barbara Phelps created the first trail guide, “Cape to Cape on Foot: Walking the Trails and Beaches of the Netarts Bay Watershed.” This brochure will be available on the WEBS website and will be printed for distribution at key locations in the county in the future.

 

WEBS has been included in the planning and development of the Tillamook County Recreational Water Trail. This county-wide effort is evolving and will include Netarts Bay in its initial development plan.

 

As noted above, WEBS initiated and is now involved in the planning and implementation of “Second Grade Day on the Bay,” a day of field experiences for second graders at South Prairie Elementary in Tillamook. WEBS is collaborating with TEP, Tillamook School District, and Hatfield Marine Science Center in the effort that will include in-classroom experiences, training of high school students and WEBS members as interpreters, and a field day on April 19, 2006.

 

As noted above, WEBS, in collaboration with TEP, developed a coalition of local groups to host “Salmonpeople,” a theatrical event that includes seminars with K-12 students and teachers and community conversations that focus on community sustainability. Work to establish the coalition resulted in an initial planning meeting in January of 2006, and a schedule of events is being created.

 

 

6. Assist WEBS Advisory Committee in drafting and negotiating a formal administrative agreement with the Tillamook Estuaries Partnership that creates an operational supporting structure for WEBS long term activities.

 

A Memorandum of Understanding between WEBS and TEP was approved and signed on February 4, 2005, for a one year period. DHA signed the agreement as the WEBS Representative Agent.

 

 

7. Evaluate WEBS program effectiveness to date, including outreach pilot programs and the administrative relationship with Tillamook Estuaries Partnership, and review with WEBS Advisory Committee

 

The developing and ongoing nature of current WEBS projects has not offered an opportunity to do formal evaluation, however, anecdotal comments heard to date indicate that the Netarts Bay Today website is providing, or will provide, an unprecedented opportunity for community residents and others to learn about their own community; that “Second Grade Day on the Bay” and “Salmonpeople” have created considerable excitement in the local community; and the fact that WEBS Advisory Committee members remain interested and engaged in the organization all speak well of WEBS to date. If all goes as planned, Phase III (January 1 – December 31, 2006) will provide opportunities to conduct formal evaluation processes.

 

 

8. Assist WEBS Advisory Committee and Tillamook Estuaries Partnership in developing recommendations for Phase III WEBS programs, activities, and outreach expansion.

 

A proposed program plan for Phase III (January 1 – December 31, 2006) was circulated to the WEBS Advisory Committee for comment in December 2005, and subsequently formalized and sent to Jim Mundell for final approval in January 2006. Program elements include:

 

·         Facilitate communication and project work for Netarts Bay WEBS Advisory Committee.

·         Facilitate WEBS community outreach initiatives, to include the following components:

1.      WEBS general brochure development

2.      Utilization of area media opportunities, such as the Headlight Herald Newspaper, local radio, and local access cable television

3.      WEBS website promotion to selected target audience

 

·         Facilitate collaboration with Tillamook School District, TEP, and Hatfield Marine Science Center in the planning and implementation of a “Second Grade Day on the Bay” event.

 

 

·         Facilitate Salmonpeople event in collaboration with TEP, including planning and implementation for:

1.      In-classroom and/or community seminars

2.      Follow-up classroom and/or community meetings

3.      Multiple performances of Salmonpeople

 

·         Facilitate working relationship and formal Memorandum of Understanding between WEBS and the TEP to enhance ongoing financial and programmatic stability and cooperation.

·         Facilitate a general marine education workshop for area educators with marine education partners.

·         Complete Netarts Bay Today web site development.  Establish and coordinate editor, webmaster and other contributors.

·         Facilitate development of virtual website concept in collaboration with TEP and implement, if feasible.

·         Begin WEBS planning for special public event at Netarts Bay, target date to be spring of 2007.

·         Research opportunities to develop additional trail guides and implement if feasible, including possible collaboration with Tillamook Water Trails Project.

·         As opportunities emerge, develop supplemental proposals and implement projects as requested.  Additional costs associated with such proposals will be paid through an addendum to this initial Phase III proposal.

 

9. Assist WEBS Advisory Committee in recognizing accomplishments and celebrating successes, and review lessons learned from phases I and II. Finalize plan for Phase III. Complete Phase II report.

Phase III plan is finalized pending review and approval by Jim Mundell, and this Phase II report is completed. A WEBS meeting to review Phase I and II, discuss Phase III, and celebrate accomplishments is tentatively planned for late February or March, pending decisions and progress on several projects, and Jim Mundell’s availability to attend the meeting.

 

 

Phase III and Beyond

David Heil & Associates believes that WEBS is meeting its goals and is well-positioned to have significant influence in the Netarts Bay area and Tillamook County. WEBS has connected to the community at many levels, and is building its base rapidly. Phase III will be an active implementation period, provide opportunities for WEBS to become more visable in the community, and test its ability to achieve its vision. With continued enthusiastic participation from the WEBS Advisory Committee, DHA anticipates a successful year in 2006.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Appendices

 

 

Netarts Bay WEBS Meeting Notes

October 11, 2004 Meeting

8:30-10:30 A.M. at The Capes

 

In Attendance: Beth Lambert, Lenora Lawrence, Mark Merkens, Louise Merkens, Jim Mundell, Barbara Phelps, Mark Trendholm, Bernie Wolff, David Heil, Bill Hastie

 

Facilitator Bill Hastie reviewed the WEBS Phase I Report. Bill examined the vision statement to identify three program areas, all of which overlap:

 

Bill and David discussed the general Phase I recommendations, including the need to establish a financial base in collaboration with Tillamook Estuaries Partnership (TEP). Also discussed were inclusive and non-threatening community involvement; collaboration with TEP, State Parks, Oregon State University Extension, and Tillamook schools; a strong educational approach, utilizing the area’s rich natural and social history as well as the arts; having a strong virtual presence (web site), formalizing advisory committee membership to include actual terms and reappointments; the value of evaluation as our programs evolve; working as a team and having fun.

 

The group agreed that the best way to approach our tasks was to form work groups around them. This promotes the tasks being shared and no one person having to shoulder most of the work.

 

Bill reviewed the promising funding sources identified in the Phase I Report. The group added several to that list:

 

Bill reviewed promising partners identified in the Phase I Report. The group added several to that list:

 

David and Bill summarized the schedule and tasks for WEBS Phase II:

 

October – December 2004

 

January – December 2005

 

Bill reviewed the education strategies discussed to date. The “strategy packages” were refined and additional strategies were added. The group then prioritized the list. Point totals were reviewed as assigned after the meeting. The results are attached.

 

                                                                                               

David and Bill reminded the group that none of the strategies were off the table. Rather, the prioritized list would be used to select which strategies to research further so that one or two of them could be developed and implemented during Phase II.

 

Other ideas and models discussed at the meeting include:

 

Next Steps: Bill and David will research the group’s five or six top strategies and recommend one or two to implement in Phase II.

 

David and Bill will be meeting with Tillamook Estuaries Partnership to formalize a financial partnership with WEBS, and propose a more formalized membership for participation with WEBS for the group’s approval.

 

The group consensus was to hold meetings on Friday afternoons if possible. No date was set for the next meeting, but it will likely occur before the New Year.

 

WEBS geographic coverage was not discussed due to lack of time, but Bill recommended “Cape to Cape” as the tag line.

 

Thanks to Lenora for making delicious muffins and coffee, and arranging for the Bridge House at The Capes. At one point, we had to rearrange the room due to beautiful morning sunlight coming through the windows – something none of us minded with fall progressing towards winter.

 

                                                                  

 

WEBS Phase II Prioritized Education Strategies

 

#1. Develop a first class website that includes natural phenomena including seasonal changes and bird sightings, events, information from research, links to local businesses, and other interesting material. (28 points)

 

#2. Develop a system of self-guided auto, bike and walking trails that interpret natural and human history and other subjects. (15 points)

 

#3. Develop a program for visitors that utilizes local citizen experts to interpret area natural history, natural resources management, and social history. (12 points)

 

#4. Develop thematic gatherings and events for families (such as “Welcome the Whales Day” model). (11 points)

 

#5. Develop a partnership with local schools to offer “service learning” opportunities that fit the WEBS vision to students. (11 points)

 

#6. Develop one or more education workshops in collaboration with State

     Parks or other local entity for families and children. (7 points)

 

#7. Develop a community education program (‘Salmonpeople” model or “Pledge Program” model). (7 points)

 

#8. Develop a system of trails and boardwalks to include such areas as Bay Road and salt march areas (a boat launch for non-motorized boats was added). (4 points)

 

#9. Develop a coastal history and archeology interpretive center at Cape Lookout State Park or other location. (1 point)

 

#10. Develop a “local authors” publication. (0 points)

 

(Developed 10-11-05)                              


                

WEBS Meeting Notes

April 29, 2005

David Heil & Associates, Inc.

 

Present: Chuck Beasley, Lenora Lawrence, Mark and Louise Merkens, Jim Mundell, Barbara Phelps, Jane Scott, Mark Trendholm, Jerry Reneau (webmaster), Bill Hastie (DHA)

 

Bill reviewed the prioritized WEBS strategies from the October meeting, and reminded members that all of the strategies are still “on the table.” (See list attached.) He reported that a number of opportunities have emerged that fit WEBS strategies well, and that in that light WEBS is proceeding on several fronts.

 

Bill distributed a Draft history of WEBS and briefly discussed the possibility of using it in a brochure or on the website itself.

 

Getting a website on-line and functioning remains the number one priority for WEBS. Jerry reported on his progress so far and asked for guidance to proceed. The group decided the following:

·         The domain name will be Netartsbaytoday matching the general theme of the site pages.

·         The home page needs an explanation of WEBS similar to the WEBS History Summary distributed earlier by Bill. The point was made that it looked too much like a “chamber of commerce” site at present.

·         Everyone liked the photo on the page.

·         “News Between the Capes” was changed to “News & Events Between the Capes,” reflecting a desire to make one section the place to go for information that has to be updated regularly. A link to the Headlight Herald was discussed as adding to the usefulness of the section. This would also contain a “pop up” window for WEBS information in addition to a statement/story about what WEBS is and how it is related to the web site. A calendar approach was suggested for this section (or create a “pop-up” window with a calendar) to reduce the need to update it as frequently (a calendar is never really out-of-date). Dates for the beach cleanup, whale watch, as well as local events such as native plant walks, volunteer firefighters breakfast, Whiskey Creek Fishing Day for Kids With Disabilities, and Cape Meares Annual Birding Extravaganza.

·         The sections “Nature & The Sea Between the Capes,” “Recreation Opportunities Between the Capes,” Villages Between the Capes,” and “Active Learning Between the Capes” would be more static information that did not require updating regularly.

·         Jerry will get an electronic version of the bird list from Cape Meares S.P.

·         For the “Recreation Opportunities…” section, it was suggested that the area is a great place to observe and photograph stars and planets.

·         For the “Villages Between the Capes” section, it was decided to create links to the Tillamook Chamber of Commerce website, and that we would not get into advertising business (WEBS could reconsider this in the future). Bill asked that the site identify which businesses were in the area from those outside, perhaps by listing them. “Community Update” sub-section was eliminated from this section since it would be covered in the “News & Events…” section.

·         In the “Active Learning between the Capes” section, we discussed the possibility of additional “Places to Visit” other than the two state parks. Possible additions included Whiskey Creek Salmon Hatchery, Whiskey Creek Shellfish Hatchery, and Stimson forests, but it was not known if they offered public tours. “Events, Tours and Excursions” was changed to “Tours and Excursions,” to reflect moving event news to the “News and Events…” section on the home page.

·         For the “Netarts History Files,” publications included the general history publication, “Tillamook Prehistory and Its Relation to the Northwest Coast Culture Area,”  “Natural History & Human Habitation of Netarts Bay” (1976), and the “Chinese Porcelains Report.”

·         For the “Netarts Research & Information” section, publications included the  “Littoral Cell Report” (2004), the “Netarts Community Plan,” “Tillamook County Futures Report” (2000), “Final Netarts Community Vision,” “Ecotourism in NW Oregon,” (1999), and “Netarts Watershed Assessment,” (1999).

·         The “Netarts Expressions” section was changed to “Expressions Between the Capes.”  This became the home of two new proposals: people could send their photos to be added to this page, and a “guestbook” where people could write their impressions of the area and submit them.

·         Sections describing Whiskey Creek Salmon Hatchery, Whiskey Creek Shellfish Hatchery, and area forestry operations were eliminated, since these sites will be addressed in some of the above sections.

·         Three other strands were added to the website, strands that would not necessarily occupy their own section, but that would be addressed throughout the site.

·         Stewardship of the area for residents and visitors

·         Safety practices wherever appropriate (Perhaps we should have an identified section for beach and water safety.)

·         Low impact practices for all activities

·         There is still interest in including a web cam image. Also discussed was the opportunity for “blogging,” although this is something that would have to be monitored closely.

·         The need to record the number of visitors to the website was expressed and remains a must. 

·         The idea of creating reciprocal links with other organizations was discussed, with SOLV as an example.

 

Other topics were discussed in less detail. Progress has been made in creating some interpretive experiences. Ed Armstrong of Tillamook School District and WEBS member Beth Lambert of OSU Extension are collaborating with WEBS to create a community interpretive program around Netarts Bay. Jim and Bill will meet with Ed and Beth and several area teachers on May 24 to plan a series of high school student and volunteer-led experiences for elementary school students in the late spring of ’06. Ed, Beth and WEBS will also collaborate on a summer program with Oregon Youth Conservation Corps (OYCC) youth who could lead interpretive experiences for visitors in the summer of “06.

 

Also discussed was the possibility of bringing “Salmonpeople” to the Tillamook area next year. “Salmonpeople” is a one-man dramatic presentation about salmon and the environment, coupled with presentations and activities in schools during the week prior to the performances.

 

Barbara briefly discussed her work with Bernie Wolff on her project to write a road/trail guide for a portion of the area. She is working on it now and will submit it to WEBS once it’s completed.

 

Mark briefly discussed the Tillamook County Recreational Water Trail effort led by Tillamook Estuaries Partnership and Marc Hinz of W.A.T.E.R. and Tillamook Bay Community College. Netarts Bay will be one of the first locations to get this trail on the map and functioning. Jim and Bill have been attending the planning meetings.

 

No date was set for the next meeting, but Friday afternoon remains the preferred day and time. Bill suggested a meeting in June depending on need.

 

Everyone took an extra cookie for the road and departed. Thanks to Lenora for securing the site!

 

 

 

 

 

WEBS Phase II Prioritized Education Strategies

 

#1. Develop a first class website that includes natural phenomena including seasonal changes and bird sightings, events, information from research, links to local businesses, and other interesting material. (28 points)

 

#2. Develop a system of self-guided auto, bike and walking trails that interpret natural and human history and other subjects. (15 points)

 

#3. Develop a program for visitors that utilizes local citizen experts to interpret area natural history, natural resources management, and social history. (12 points)

 

#4. Develop thematic gatherings and events for families (such as “Welcome the Whales Day” model). (11 points)

 

#5. Develop a partnership with local schools to offer “service learning” opportunities that fit the WEBS vision to students. (11 points)

 

#6. Develop one or more education workshops in collaboration with State

     Parks or other local entity for families and children. (7 points)

 

#7. Develop a community education program (‘Salmonpeople” model or “Pledge Program” model). (7 points)

 

#8. Develop a system of trails and boardwalks to include such areas as Bay Road and salt march areas (a boat launch for non-motorized boats was added). (4 points)

 

#9. Develop a coastal history and archeology interpretive center at Cape Lookout State Park or other location. (1 point)

 

#10. Develop a “local authors” publication. (0 points)

Netarts Bay WEBS Meeting Notes

September 30,2005

2:00 – 4:00 PM at The Capes

 

In attendance: Chuck Beasley, Lenora Lawrence, Jim Mundell, Barbara Phelps, Lisa Phipps, Bernie Wolff, Jim Young, Jerry Reneau (Webmaster), Bill Hastie (facilitator). 

 

Bill reviewed the web site project and proposed a revision of the home page with some minor changes elsewhere. The revision gets some of the clutter off the home page, adds some photos, and enlarges the active map. It also allows the user to go directly to: News, Weather, and Tides. In addition, the user can click “Table of Contents” and go directly to the various categories established, eliminating one layer on our present site. Each category (such as Crabs and Other Shellfish”) would have a summary general introduction to it as well as the title and source of any reference about that subject. For instance, a section on “Netarts Bay Oysters” would have both the general info and reference “Genetics of the Pacific Oyster (a report written by OSU in 1973) just a click away.

 

In addition, users can go directly to the WEBS page if they choose to learn more about WEBS, go directly to a photo album or guestbook page to view or read, and learn how they can submit guestbook comments or photos. If any of you would like a hard copy of what’s planned, contact Bill and he will send one.

 

Bill listed three tasks that comprise the next steps in website development:

·         Enlist the help of a volunteer site editor. The editor job is a big one, and includes developing a calendar, and setting up a network to retrieve the latest events, bird/mammal sitings, tours/activities, volunteer opportunities, and other items of interest. The photos and guestbook entries could also come through this editor.

·         Write the general introductory pieces for the various categories on the website.

·         Review the present documents listed (plus several others) on the site, decide which ones should be carried on the site (in total or partially),

                                                    

·         Which ones are available electronically, which ones can be linked to, and which ones need to be digitized. 

 

Barbara Phelps volunteered to take on the editor position. Jim Young stepped up and agreed to write the general information pieces. Bill and Jim Mundell will conspire to review the references and get them on the website. All of these tasks will also involve our Webmaster, Jerry Reneau of course.

 

The following website suggestions also were discussed:

 

Bill and Jim discussed the planned “Second Grade Day on the Bay” program, set for spring, ’05. They have been working with Ed Armstrong of Tillamook School District, Hatfield Marine Science Center, the high school marine science teacher, and several South Prairie Elementary School educators to develop outdoor learning about the ocean and bay for 2nd graders. High school students and WEBS members, trained by Hatfield Marine Science Center staff, will team up to help the students learn more about the marine world at rotating stations. Hatfield and Northwest Aquatic and Marine Educators (NAME) will hold a teacher-training workshop on January 30, open to all teachers. A working group will soon meet to develop program details.

 

Bill gave an update on the “Salmonpeople” program. Bill and Jim met with Tillamook Estuaries Partnership earlier and agreed to work on the program. The plan is to develop a coalition of local organizations and business to help with the performances and related programs.

 

Bill reminded WEBS members that holding “Salmonpeople” events in the

                                                                                               

Community will help WEBS recognition in the area, and that deciding how that recognition should portray the organization would be in order. Members suggested the following ways to convey WEBS to the community:

·         Developing a relationship with the Headlight Herald

·         Develop and send news releases

·         Use local radio interviews

·         Have a presence at the county fair (August), perhaps in collaboration with the SWCD

·         Develop a WEBS brochure

·         Develop a press kit

·         Work with videographer Jane Scott to produce and informational video

 

Barbara Phelps discussed her “Between the Capes Trail Guide.” This in essence is the first WEBS publication. She asked all WEBS members to review it on her web site and send any revision to her as soon as possible. We will put it on our website as soon as this process is completed, then develop a plan for printing and distribution. View the guide at: http://www.geocities.com/nknbeachcombers/trail1.html

 

Bill shared a new concept in outdoor interpretation that can provide both a virtual tour of a landscape, and an actual tour that can be viewed with the use of a picture-capable cell phone. This technology is being developed in British Columbia and the Netherlands. Bill “discovered” it while at a NAME meeting on Vancouver Island, and is having discussions with one of its creators from Seattle about its use in the Netarts or Tillamook areas. The group concurred that we should share the information with TEP and perhaps State Parks to see if there is potential in Tillamook Co.

 

Bill reminded the group that some terms are “up” at the end of 2005 and hoped those members would continue to serve on the WEBS Advisory Committee. All welcomed new member Jim Young, of Oceanside, to WEBS.

 

We did not schedule the next meeting, however, it was tentatively set for early December.