This year's Surfrider PNW Conference was a tremendous success, serving up waves of great presentations from chapter leaders up and down the west coast and delivering some quality swell here and there on Saturday for conference-goers. Nearly 60 chapter leaders came together in Yachats, Oregon, adjacent the spectacular Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve and nearby forested wilderness areas to participate in this year's event.
Participants came from as far south as San Diego and as far north as British Columbia, sharing knowledge and best practices on a range of Surfrider issues from coastal adaptations and climate change to chapter organizing discussions like volunteer recruitment, memberships and fundraising. The weekend kicked off with a 3-hour tour of the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve and adjacent Cummins Creek Wilderness Area and Audubon Sanctuary, where participants were rewarded with fantastic views of the coastline, wildlife and old growth forests.
A big shout out to all our participants and special thanks to all our presenters, it was a fantastic weekend because of all of YOU!
Photo: Phil Schlieder
Photos: Phil Schlieder
As a founding member of the Newport, OR Chapter, Charlie has greatly advanced our mission through ocean conservation as the Oregon Policy Manager. He’s led a critical role in ocean protection through strategic engagement of our Oregon chapter network in policy initiatives, grassroots campaigns and community-based projects. With a BS in Marine Biology and as a member of the Oregon Ocean Policy Advisory Council, Charlie’s ties to the ocean reach far beyond the Surfrider Foundation. He enjoys surfing, fly-fishing and loves cheese biscuits.