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 SHUYAK Uncovered (July 19-27, 2008)

This environmental project aims to bring volunteers from all over the United States to take part in a marine debris clean-up at Shuyak island.   Volunteers will spend one week gathering marine debris, learning about is causes and effects on the food chain, and observing humankind's impact on the ocean world from the perspective of one of Alaska's most remote and beautiful shores.   This rich island is situated at the crossroads of the Gulf of Alaska, approximately halfway between Homer and Kodiak, Shuyak is known for it's abundant wildlife, inviting intertidal backwaters, dramatic tides and strong, nutrient rich ocean currents.  Almost the entire island is a protected Alaska State Park, and portions of the coastline are part of the National Maritime Wildlife Refuge.  During our week-long stay at Shuyak, periods of debris collection will be offset by guided trips by foot, kayak and skiff through the backcountry of this wild place.   Our team will be transported to Shuyak from Kodiak and back, and will receive meals and berthing aboard the MV Island C, an 83' yacht chartered for this expedition. 

A worldwide problem

Marine debris carries toxins through the marine environment, impacts wildlife, and detracts from the natural beauty of the coastline of every ocean in the world.   The islands of the Kodiak archipelago are host to hundreds of tons of marine debris, including plastics, bottles, cans, and derelict fishing gear from all over the Pacific.  Sources of debris range from all over the Pacific rim, from California to Korea. 

What we are doing

Through a grant from NOAA, the Marine Conservation Alliance Foundation and Island Trails Network are conducting a survey of marine debris and several targeted clean-ups on the islands of the Kodiak archipelago from the Trinity islands to Shuyak island. Through aerial surveys and a voluntary reporting system, we are  identifying which areas are most heavily affected by floating ocean waste, conducting large scale clean-ups of coastal areas, and educating the public about the impacts of marine debris on the natural world.  Learn more about the survey or make your own report of marine debris in the Kodiak archipelago.

How you can help

Join us for this nine-day volunteer opportunity in one of Alaska's wildest places.  The week's activities combine volunteerism with education and adventure, for an experience you can feel good about and will never forget.  Volunteers should be able-bodied, physically fit, and capable of sustained manual labor in harsh weather conditions.  Periods of rain, strong and gusting winds, and cool temperatures (nighttime temps in the 40s F) can make for challenging conditions, even in midsummer. 

The Goal

We measure success by the cubic yard.  We fill super full of the typically lightweight marine debris.  When full, the sacks average 200 lbs each.  Our goal is to fill 30 super sacks, totaling 40 cubic yards of debris, which will be returned to Kodiak on a contracted vessel. 

The cost

All participants will be asked to make a meaningful and substantial contribution to Island Trails Network to continue marine debris and other environmental stewardship projects in the Kodiak archipelago.  ITN staff can work with volunteers on a case-by-case basis to determine the appropriate level of giving.  As Island Trails Network is a 501(c)3 non-profit entity, the donation and all travel expenses are tax deductible.   There are 11 berths available and spaces will fill quickly.  Reserve yours today by emailing us or calling ITN Executive Director Andy Schroeder at 907-539-1979. 

July 19  

1500  Vessel tours & guest orientation.  Depart Kodiak.
1700   Whalewatching:  Marmot Bay
1900:  Dinner lecture:  Causes and Effects of Marine Debris in the North Pacific.
2200:  Anchor, Izhut Bay

Big Bay, Shuyak SP.  Photo courtesy Alaska State Parks.

July 22 

Marine debris deposit at St. Paul, Pribilof Islands.  Photo courtesy MCAF.

July 23

Banya at Big Bay Ranger Station.  Photo courtesy Alaska State Parks.

July 24

0057              Low Tide, 1.7 ft
0700               Breakfast
0702              High Tide, 12.0 ft
0800-1200    Marine Debris Clean-up , Wonder Bay (Team Orca).  (Goal:  3 Super Sacks)  Kayak/small boat tours (Team Otter). 
1200-1300    Lunch
1300              Low Tide, 1.6 ft
1300-1700   Marine Debris Clean-up , Wonder Bay (Team Otter).  (Goal:  3 Super Sacks)  Kayak/small boat tours (Team Orca). 
1900              Dinner & a movie
1924             High Tide, 13.6 ft


 

First Falls, Shuyak SP.  Photo courtesy Alaska State Parks.

July 26

View from "508", Shuyak SP.  Photo courtesy Alaska State Parks.

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Island Trails Network- PO Box 4371 - Kodiak, Alaska - 99615 - 907.539.1979 -  info@islandtrails.org