We invite you to be a part of our ongoing efforts to protect the delicate habitat and diverse wildlife on Rat Island by joining our Docent Program in 2024.
Building on the success of our inaugural program in 2023, which was conducted in collaboration with WDFW and our State Park, we are excited to expand our team of dedicated docents. Last year, we saw the participation of 25 enthusiastic individuals, and we are eager to welcome more passionate volunteers this year.
Based on valuable feedback from our docents, we have made enhancements to the program. This year, the program will run from Memorial weekend through August, coinciding with extreme negative low tides that allow access to Rat Island by foot. Docents will be engaged in 4-hour shifts, providing an opportunity to stand, sit, and walk the spit while educating visitors and observing the island's unique wildlife.
Our Caspian Terns, in particular, depend on the crucial role of docents in their survival. With the Avian Flu devastating approximately 80% of the Salish Sea population in 2023, protecting their habitat has become more vital than ever. Rat Island offers one of the few remaining sanctuaries for these birds to breed without human intervention. Your involvement as a docent is instrumental in ensuring the continued existence of this vulnerable species.
To prepare you for this meaningful role, we offer comprehensive training conducted by a diverse group of professionals. This training equips you with the necessary information and tools to be an effective and knowledgeable docent, contributing significantly to the conservation of Rat Island and its wildlife.
May 2nd, 2024
Rat Island: The Avian Flu and it affects the Caspian Terns
Presenters: Scott Pearson & Tom Good
Scott and Tom discussed the ecology, life history, and challenges facing Caspian terns and other bird species in the Puget Sound region, as well as the impact of avian influenza on various bird populations. They emphasized the importance of preserving Rat Island as a natural habitat for animals and the role of citizen science projects in monitoring dead bird populations.
May 1st, 2024
Harbor Seals and Avian Flu Protocols
Presenter: Casey Mclean,
Executive Director and Veterinary Nurse, SR3.org
Exploring the challenges and realities facing harbor seal pups and their mothers, the annual molting process of adult seals, and the need for observing and reporting any signs of injury or illness in wild seals.
April 26th, 2024
Interpretive and State Park Training
Presenter: Kelsey Lang
Kelsey Lang, an interpretive specialist at Fort Flagler State Park, conducted a training session for Washington Fish and Wildlife volunteers on the importance of interpretation in connecting visitors with park resources and enhancing their recreational and educational experiences.
For any inquiries or to express your interest in this program, feel free to reach out to us via email.
April 15th, 2024
Learn all about harvesting clams on the beach at Fort Flagler
Presenter: Mike Zimmerman
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For any inquiries or to express your interest in this program, feel free to reach out to us via email.
March 20th, 2024
Review General Docent Training Video
Presenter: Deisy Bach, our Natural History Chair on
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For any inquiries or to express your interest in this program, feel free to reach out to us via email.
Friends of Fort Flagler has been working with Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife to provide some protection to Rat Island during the Caspian Tern nesting and Harbor Seal pupping season which occurs during July and August.
The goal is to have docents posted at the end of the Fort Flagler spit, across from Rat Island during extremely low tides. There will be signage discouraging folks from walking or kayaking on the island. The docents will take the opportunity to answer questions and talk about the value of protecting the habitat and wildlife, and how our presence may disturb the chicks and pups.
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