Week one of the WSU Beach Watcher and Naturalist program is officially in the books, and I’m kicking off week two with even more inspiration and knowledge! This week’s session featured Heather Trim from Zero Waste Washington, who spoke about some of the latest environmental legislation being passed in Olympia. On top of that, I had my first shift at the Langley Whale Center, and to top it all off I saw Bigg’s Killer Whales right from shore!
Zero Waste Washington & Legislative Action
Heather Trim’s presentation was a deep dive into the policies that are shaping Washington’s environmental future. Zero Waste Washington is at the forefront of advocating for waste reduction, and some of the latest legislative efforts include:
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The Right to Repair Bill – A game-changer in reducing electronic waste by making it easier for consumers to fix their devices instead of replacing them.
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Plastic Reduction Initiatives – Tackling single-use plastics and pushing for sustainable alternatives.
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Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Programs – Holding manufacturers accountable for the lifecycle of their products, including recycling and disposal.
These policies are essential steps in reducing pollution and protecting Washington’s delicate ecosystems. Learning about these efforts reinforced just how interconnected our everyday choices are with the health of marine life and the Puget Sound region.
First Shift at Langley Whale Center
Sunday marked my first official shift as a volunteer at the Langley Whale Center! Walking into the center, I was immediately immersed in a space filled with knowledge, passion, and a shared love for marine conservation. My shift involved greeting visitors, answering questions, and learning even more about the local marine species and conservation efforts.
One of my favorite parts of the day was seeing visitors’ faces light up as they learned about the orcas that frequent the Salish Sea. It was amazing to share information and connect with others who are just as excited about these incredible creatures as I am.
Bigg’s Killer Whales in Langley!
As if my first shift wasn’t exciting enough, I was lucky enough to witness a pod of Bigg’s (transient) Killer Whales from shore! Seeing these apex predators in the wild was an unforgettable experience. The power and grace of these whales never cease to amaze me, and it was a perfect reminder of why I’m dedicating my time to conservation and education.
Final Thoughts
Between learning about policy changes that will impact Washington’s environmental future and witnessing firsthand the beauty of our marine life, this past week has been incredibly fulfilling. I can’t wait to continue my journey in the Beach Watcher program and at the Langley Whale Center, and I look forward to sharing more insights along the way.
Have you ever seen orcas in the wild? Let me know in the comments! And if you want to stay updated on my journey, be sure to subscribe to The Kelp Chronicles!
