Gray Whale Strandings in the PNW: A Conversation with John Calambokidis (hosted by Surfrider Foundation)
This year is on track to set the record for gray whale strandings in the Pacific Northwest. Hear directly from the scientist leading the on-the-ground response.
The Seattle chapter of The Surfrider Foundation is hosting a conversation with John Calambokidis of Cascadia Research Collective on Gray Whale sightings and strandings in the PNW. This year has been a record year for gray whale strandings in the Pacific Northwest. Arctic Amplification is a climate phenomenon that describes how the Arctic is warming dramatically faster than the rest of the planet. PNW whale populations are facing the consequences of climate change – the majority of the stranding deaths have been linked to malnutrition caused by these ecosystem changes in their Arctic feeding grounds which has affected the quality and abundance of their food source. Our waters also serve as a refuge and alternative feeding area for some of these whales as they attempt to adapt to this challenge; the presentation will include some of the dramatic footage and data about this phenomenon.
You don't need to be a whale expert to attend! This is a first-hand look at how Arctic warming is playing out in our own backyard, and a chance to hear directly from one of the leading researchers tracking it.
Drinks and light snacks will be provided.
Agenda:
4pm: Doors open
4:30 - 5:30pm: Talk + Q&A with John Calambokidis
5:30 - 6:30pm: Networking
The Surfrider Foundation:
The Surfrider Foundation Seattle Chapter is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the ocean, waves, and beaches of the Pacific Northwest, while also supporting Surfrider's global initiatives. (https://seattle.surfrider.org/)
John Calambokidis:
John Calambokidis is a Senior Research Biologist and co-founder of Cascadia Research Collective (https://cascadiaresearch.org/), a non-profit research organization formed in 1979 based in Olympia, Washington. John is an occasional Adjunct Faculty member at Evergreen State College and the author of the books Blue Whales and A Guide to Marine Mammals of Greater Puget Sound and over 100 technical reports and publications.
In addition to registering via Luma, please also sign a waiver via this Surfrider link. Waivers will also be available at the event if you did not get a chance to fill one out beforehand.
For any questions, feel free to reach out to Maria Travaille at mtravaille@seattle.surfrider.org.
By registering for this event, you agree to share your information with the event organizers, PNW Climate Week, and Climatebase / the Climate Week Network. You may receive updates from these organizations, and can opt out at any time in accordance with their respective privacy policies.