Shoreline landowners of San Juan County communities are invited to attend a free workshop on shoreline erosion management from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 14, at Orcas Fire and Rescue Meeting Room, 45 Lavender Ln., Eastsound. The workshop is free but registration is requested: call (360) 733-1725 or register online at www.surveymonkey.com/. The workshop is sponsored by the Northwest Straits Foundation and hosted by the San Juan County Marine Resources Committee. The format is a classroom-style presentation with time for questions, followed by a beach walk to see beach/bluff habitats and geologic processes. Topics include erosion management, alternatives to hard shoreline armoring, enhancing beach access and native vegetation for slope stability and habitat

Participants will learn from expert Jim Johannessen of Coastal Geologic Services about ways to protect their property from erosion and alternatives to hard armoring that can help prevent erosion while maintaining a healthy and vibrant nearshore habitat to benefit people and wildlife long term. Workshop attendees can apply for a free technical site visit from qualified professionals and receive management recommendations by private consultants for your specific property. Community members are encouraged to attend this workshop if they are a shoreline landowner who wants to learn more about ways to reduce erosion or address drainage or vegetation impacts, or if they are considering installing, removing or repairing hard armoring on their shoreline property. If you are a shoreline property owner unable to attend the workshop, you may learn more by contacting Lisa Kaufman, Nearshore manager, at kaufman@nwstraitsfoundation or (360) 733-1725. Pre-registration is requested by calling 733-1725 or at www.surveymonkey.com/.