SAND ISLAND NATURAL AREA PRESERVE
Features Protected: Seabird nesting habitat, western gull, brown pelican
Ecoregion: Northwest Coast (Grays Harbor County)
Site Description
This small sandy accretion island protects nesting seabird colonies, historically including Caspian terns. Bald eagles, double-crested cormorants, brown pelicans, brants, ring-billed gulls, sandpipers, and many other birds use the site. The island supports sand dune vegetation, and provides a haul out site for seals.
Science, Research and Monitoring
Public and private universities, other research institutions and individual researchers may contact DNR to propose a research project at the site. If you are interested in pursuing research at Sand Island NAP, please contact David Wilderman, natural areas ecologist, at david.wilderman@dnr.wa.gov.
Examples of research and monitoring projects that have been carried out at Sand Island NAP:
Environmental Education and Public Access
Currently no formal educational programs are available at Sand Island NAP. The site is seasonally overtopped and island sands shift continually. For more information, contact the DNR Pacific Cascade Region natural areas manager.