Sunshine and warmth continue into September. Upwelling is higher, yet low Fraser River flow reduces the likelihood of low-oxygen water moving into Puget Sound. Dissolved oxygen remains relatively high in Hood Canal and is lower elsewhere. Satellites show relatively warm water in the Strait of Georgia and Whidbey Basin and an extensive offshore bloom. Water temperatures also remain high in South Sound were red-brown plankton blooms and large smacks of jellyfish adorn the water surface. Explore what frequent blooms in smaller bays can tell us.
Sunshine and warm temperatures return after last week’s intense rain. The Puyallup and Nisqually Rivers are flowing high. Red-brown blooms and numerous patches of jellyfish remain strong in South Sound, Sinclair and Dyes Inlets, and Bellingham Bay, with brown-green blooms in Whidbey Basin. Macro-algae surface debris is very high in South and Central Sound. Hood Canal remains cooler but Puget Sound-wide temperatures are now warmer and less salty. Sea surface temperatures are above 15 °C, conditions favorable for some pathogens, and harmful algae blooms. Read about super colonies of by-the-wind sailors washing up on our shores.
Unusually warm water temperatures continue in central and south Puget Sound. River flows remain lower than normal, especially the Fraser and Skagit rivers. Thus, with estuarine circulation much weaker, Puget Sound waters stay put. Mats of organic debris persist in Central Sound near Port Madison. Red-brown and brown blooms are now very strong in southern inlets and jellyfish patches are exceptionally numerous and large. Explore media coverage of unusual Puget Sound conditions including jellyfish.
Air temperatures are warm and Puget Sound continues to show record high water temperatures. Some rain has returned to our region, yet river flows remain unusually low. Puget Sound is saltier than normal allowing oxygen-rich surface waters to more easily mix to greater depths. Lower oxygen was measured only in the Coastal Bays, Hood Canal, and South Sound. Large jellyfish aggregations continue in South Sound, the Kitsap Peninsula, and East Sound (Orcas Island). Sediment plumes in Bellingham Bay form unique patterns. Warm waters and sunny conditions fostered green tides, raising a stink along some local beaches.
A stunning view of a second large Noctiluca bloom captures the attention of many living near Puget Sound. Favorable conditions support several regional phytoplankton blooms. Red-brown blooms in Port Townsend, Discovery Bay and Bellingham Bay. Large algal mats or organic material particularly in Samish Bay. Jellyfish patches increasing in Budd, Totten and Eld Inlets.
EOPS_December_30_2015,
The year 2015 in pictures: Jellyfish patches persisted through the entire year in response to the exceptionally warm water caused by the Blob. Sediment loads are high as snow melts fast in the winter of 2015. Unexpected phytoplankton species occur in some bays in spring. Noctiluca, jellyfish and macro-algae appear in high numbers when rivers drop to record-low flows in early summer. Low river flows slow the renewal of in Puget Sound throughout summer and fall and jellyfish patches reach record highs.
Ecology Publication No. 15-03-080
EOPS_June_27_2016,
Record-breaking warmer and fresher water in Puget Sound. May-June conditions are more unusual than last year. Recent rain brought river flows close to normal but water exchange in Puget Sound remains weak due to low Fraser River flow. Phytoplankton blooms and organic material are visible in some areas of Central and South Sound but not in others. Noctiluca, while absent in Central Basin, was reported in unusual places. Jelly fish occur only in some south sound bays. Follow our BEACH program kick off, discover the Stinkworm, and find good underwater visibility for diving.
Ecology Publication No. 16-03-074
Sunshine and warm temperatures return after last week’s intense rain. The Puyallup and Nisqually Rivers are flowing high. Red-brown blooms and numerous patches of jellyfish remain strong in South Sound, Sinclair and Dyes Inlets, and Bellingham Bay, with brown-green blooms in Whidbey Basin. Macro-algae surface debris is very high in South and Central Sound. Hood Canal remains cooler but Puget Sound-wide temperatures are now warmer and less salty. Sea surface temperatures are above 15 °C, conditions favorable for some pathogens, and harmful algae blooms. Read about super colonies of by-the-wind sailors washing up on our shores.
Unusually warm water temperatures continue in central and south Puget Sound. River flows remain lower than normal, especially the Fraser and Skagit rivers. Thus, with estuarine circulation much weaker, Puget Sound waters stay put. Mats of organic debris persist in Central Sound near Port Madison. Red-brown and brown blooms are now very strong in southern inlets and jellyfish patches are exceptionally numerous and large. Explore media coverage of unusual Puget Sound conditions including jellyfish.
Air temperatures are warm and Puget Sound continues to show record high water temperatures. Some rain has returned to our region, yet river flows remain unusually low. Puget Sound is saltier than normal allowing oxygen-rich surface waters to more easily mix to greater depths. Lower oxygen was measured only in the Coastal Bays, Hood Canal, and South Sound. Large jellyfish aggregations continue in South Sound, the Kitsap Peninsula, and East Sound (Orcas Island). Sediment plumes in Bellingham Bay form unique patterns. Warm waters and sunny conditions fostered green tides, raising a stink along some local beaches.
A stunning view of a second large Noctiluca bloom captures the attention of many living near Puget Sound. Favorable conditions support several regional phytoplankton blooms. Red-brown blooms in Port Townsend, Discovery Bay and Bellingham Bay. Large algal mats or organic material particularly in Samish Bay. Jellyfish patches increasing in Budd, Totten and Eld Inlets.
EOPS_December_30_2015,
The year 2015 in pictures: Jellyfish patches persisted through the entire year in response to the exceptionally warm water caused by the Blob. Sediment loads are high as snow melts fast in the winter of 2015. Unexpected phytoplankton species occur in some bays in spring. Noctiluca, jellyfish and macro-algae appear in high numbers when rivers drop to record-low flows in early summer. Low river flows slow the renewal of in Puget Sound throughout summer and fall and jellyfish patches reach record highs.
Ecology Publication No. 15-03-080
EOPS_June_27_2016,
Record-breaking warmer and fresher water in Puget Sound. May-June conditions are more unusual than last year. Recent rain brought river flows close to normal but water exchange in Puget Sound remains weak due to low Fraser River flow. Phytoplankton blooms and organic material are visible in some areas of Central and South Sound but not in others. Noctiluca, while absent in Central Basin, was reported in unusual places. Jelly fish occur only in some south sound bays. Follow our BEACH program kick off, discover the Stinkworm, and find good underwater visibility for diving.
Ecology Publication No. 16-03-074
Warmer and sunnier days result in higher than normal river flows from the Skagit and Nisqually. Biological activity in the water column is high. Abundant organic surface debris in Hood Canal, Padilla Bay, and many Inlets. Red-brown blooms in South Sound, Discovery Bay, and regions of Bellingham Bay. Different blooms in Skagit Bay, Padilla Bay, and Sinclair Inlet. Jelly fish are numerous in all southernmost South Sound Bays. Hood Canal remains cold but Puget Sound-wide temperatures are now warmer and less salty. Data from the Victoria Clipper and our sampling in the Strait provides important information on water exchange with the ocean.
EOPS_December_31_2016,
The year 2016 in pictures: After two years of very warm air and record high water temperatures starting with the Blob (2015) and followed by El Nino (2016), temperatures have fallen and remain slightly warmer than normal in Puget Sound. Very low summer river flows (e.g., Fraser River) reflect climatic predictions for the NW. Record temperatures and low salinities occurred alongside observations of abundant jellyfish, floating macro-algae, and Noctiluca blooms. Surprisingly, only South Sound developed very low summer oxygen levels in 2016. In the fall, La Niña came with a punch, rain increased, and air temperatures dropped. Will this be an unusual La Niña?
Publication No. 16-03-079
Warm air and water temperatures and offshore winds have persisted since fall. Numerous and sizable jelly fish patches are still present in southern inlets of Puget Sound. Coastal waters were colored in shades of gray to brown by sediment and humic substances. Phytoplankton blooms were restricted to the surf zone. We were treated to artful views of meandering sloughs and gullies on exposed mud flats during low tide in Willapa Bay, interspersed with the geometry of shellfish management. Brown pelicans: a story of recovery.
EOPS_May_2_2016,
Spring air temperatures are higher - it has been sunny and dry. The snowpack is quickly disappearing as temperatures are up to 7 °F warmer at higher elevations. Snowmelt-fed rivers are running very high. How does this affect water quality in Puget Sound? A strong spring phytoplankton bloom extends across Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Water temperatures are still higher than normal and jellyfish are already numerous in southern inlets. The high biological activity is causing organic material to drift at the surface and wash onto beaches. Do you know how fast a Sand Star can move?
Ecology Publication No. 16-03-073
The year 2013 in pictures: Low oxygen conditions persisted from January into August and broke a two year anomaly of more favorable water quality conditions (lower temperature and salinity and higher dissolved oxygen). Dramatic Noctiluca blooms appeared one month earlier than normal (May), lasted for two months and coincided with lower oxygen. Large jellyfish patches persisted over the winter but then were less visible for the rest of the year. Large drifting algal mats appeared in August.
EOPS_July_24_2017,
July had warm air temperatures, sunshine, and an abundant snowpack. Previous months had higher river flows (bringing freshwater) and weak upwelling (low delivery of saltier water) which resulted in very low salinities in Puget Sound, especially in the South Sound. Water temperatures are expected and warmer in Central Sound. Above normal sunshine has made Puget Sound biologically very active! Intense and unusual blooms color Hood Canal (coccolithophores) and south sound inlets. Large mats of organic material containing macro-algae drift at the surface. Many schools of fish are visible though jellyfish were absent.
Ecology Publication No. 17-03-071
Record warm water temperatures and low oxygen continue in Ecology’s Puget Sound marine monitoring station network. Record low stream flows result in visibly low river discharge into Puget Sound, in particular for the Puyallup River. Abundant sun and unusually warm water temperatures fuel phytoplankton blooms in many areas. Bright orange Noctiluca blooms are surfacing in the Commencement Bay area and around Port Madison. Finger inlets of South Sound support extensive patches of jellyfish.
Puget Sound is starting to normalize in response to fall conditions with cooler air temperatures, rain, and recovering river flows. We are seeing fewer algal blooms, jellyfish, and macro-algae as salinities become more normal. Yet warm waters persist and El Nino and the Blob are likely to affect Puget Sound throughout the winter. The Nisqually River fared better through the drought than other rivers and best management practices have been improving its water quality. EOPS and ferry monitoring gain recognition with a national award for innovation!
EOPS_July_20_2016,
Through June, air temperatures and sunlight were higher than normal. Recent rain generally improved river flows. However, the Fraser river flow remains extremely low, reducing water exchange with the ocean. Water temperatures are still breaking records, yet dissolved oxygen levels are normal. Coastal bays are influenced by upwelling and exhibit lower oxygen and higher salinities. Puget Sound algae are thriving with blooms observed in many South Sound inlets. Macro-algae is seen piling up on beaches and drifting in Central Sound. Jellyfish smacks are numerous in Eld and Budd Inlets. Our fliers notice seals hanging out at the beach!
Ecology Publication No. 16-03-075
Dr. Christopher Krembs, with the marine monitoring unit of the Department of Ecology, presented on the warm water conditions in Puget Sound. He discussed the impacts on marine food webs and potential scenarios in 2015. He presented at the June 2015 NRC meeting.
EOPS_September_26_2016,
September is jellyfish season and they are everywhere in southern Puget Sound! Sunny, warm, and dry conditions promoted strong late-summer plankton blooms in colors of red, green, and brown, now widespread in many bays. In contrast, Central Sound looks clear with low algal activity. Southern Puget Sound has large floating mats of organic material and developed lower oxygen in August. Meet the Critter of the Month - The Sweet Potato Sea Cucumber.
Publication No. 16-03-077
EOPS_August_28_2017,
Warm air temperatures, abundant sunshine, and drier conditions persisted. River flows are lower in the north. Puget Sound waters are still fresher than in the past 17 years from the combination of abundant spring rain and weak upwelling bringing less salty water from the ocean. July upwelling was stronger, however. Warmer water temperatures are notable in parts of Central Sound, accompanied by large rafts of drifting macroalgae. Diverse blooms in colors of green, orange and red-brown are present in many inlets. Jellyfish abundance is lower this year. Find out how we assess if the benthos is changing.
Ecology Publication No. 17-03-072
Eyes Over Puget Sound (EOPS) is a news report, and is made available within two days of observation.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/
We inform on current surface conditions in Puget Sound and links several scales of observation together. The report contains condition summaries, personal flight observations, aerial photographs, en route ferry data, satellite images, and mooring data collected by the Marine Monitoring Unit at Ecology.
Ecology's Marine Monitoring Unit conducts several marine observations with a sampling frequency of minutes to 1 month. We use our routine commute flight between Kenmore Airbase and Olympia to document current marine water conditions by camera and supplement the information with satellite images and en route ferry data between Seattle WA and Victoria BC. This program is an example to optimize monitoring resources. You may subscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listserv by going to this link:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
Eyes Over Puget Sound (EOPS) is a news report, and is made available within two days of observation.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/
We inform on current surface conditions in Puget Sound and links several scales of observation together. The report contains condition summaries, personal flight observations, aerial photographs, en route ferry data, satellite images, and mooring data collected by the Marine Monitoring Unit at Ecology.
Ecology's Marine Monitoring Unit conducts several marine observations with a sampling frequency of minutes to 1 month. We use our routine commute flight between Kenmore Airbase and Olympia to document current marine water conditions by camera and supplement the information with satellite images and en route ferry data between Seattle WA and Victoria BC. This program is an example to optimize monitoring resources. You may subscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listserv by going to this link:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
Eyes Over Puget Sound (EOPS) is a news report, and is made available within two days of observation.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/
We inform on current surface conditions in Puget Sound and links several scales of observation together. The report contains condition summaries, personal flight observations, aerial photographs, en route ferry data, satellite images, and mooring data collected by the Marine Monitoring Unit at Ecology.
Ecology's Marine Monitoring Unit conducts several marine observations with a sampling frequency of minutes to 1 month. We use our routine commute flight between Kenmore Airbase and Olympia to document current marine water conditions by camera and supplement the information with satellite images and en route ferry data between Seattle WA and Victoria BC. This program is an example to optimize monitoring resources. You may subscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listserv by going to this link:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
At the end of summer, water temperatures are still high, and salinities and dissolved oxygen are low in Puget Sound. Both sea surface temperature and upwelling off the coast are elevated (PDO and Upwelling indices) and the the Fraser River flow is low. This combination makes it an interesting fall. Very dense and large patches of jellyfish appear in finger inlets of South Sound. Red-brown blooms also remain strong in South Sound.
Warmer and sunnier days result in higher than normal river flows from the Skagit and Nisqually. Biological activity in the water column is high. Abundant organic surface debris in Hood Canal, Padilla Bay, and many Inlets. Red-brown blooms in South Sound, Discovery Bay, and regions of Bellingham Bay. Different blooms in Skagit Bay, Padilla Bay, and Sinclair Inlet. Jelly fish are numerous in all southernmost South Sound Bays. Hood Canal remains cold but Puget Sound-wide temperatures are now warmer and less salty. Data from the Victoria Clipper and our sampling in the Strait provides important information on water exchange with the ocean.
EOPS_December_31_2016,
The year 2016 in pictures: After two years of very warm air and record high water temperatures starting with the Blob (2015) and followed by El Nino (2016), temperatures have fallen and remain slightly warmer than normal in Puget Sound. Very low summer river flows (e.g., Fraser River) reflect climatic predictions for the NW. Record temperatures and low salinities occurred alongside observations of abundant jellyfish, floating macro-algae, and Noctiluca blooms. Surprisingly, only South Sound developed very low summer oxygen levels in 2016. In the fall, La Niña came with a punch, rain increased, and air temperatures dropped. Will this be an unusual La Niña?
Publication No. 16-03-079
Warm air and water temperatures and offshore winds have persisted since fall. Numerous and sizable jelly fish patches are still present in southern inlets of Puget Sound. Coastal waters were colored in shades of gray to brown by sediment and humic substances. Phytoplankton blooms were restricted to the surf zone. We were treated to artful views of meandering sloughs and gullies on exposed mud flats during low tide in Willapa Bay, interspersed with the geometry of shellfish management. Brown pelicans: a story of recovery.
EOPS_May_2_2016,
Spring air temperatures are higher - it has been sunny and dry. The snowpack is quickly disappearing as temperatures are up to 7 °F warmer at higher elevations. Snowmelt-fed rivers are running very high. How does this affect water quality in Puget Sound? A strong spring phytoplankton bloom extends across Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Water temperatures are still higher than normal and jellyfish are already numerous in southern inlets. The high biological activity is causing organic material to drift at the surface and wash onto beaches. Do you know how fast a Sand Star can move?
Ecology Publication No. 16-03-073
The year 2013 in pictures: Low oxygen conditions persisted from January into August and broke a two year anomaly of more favorable water quality conditions (lower temperature and salinity and higher dissolved oxygen). Dramatic Noctiluca blooms appeared one month earlier than normal (May), lasted for two months and coincided with lower oxygen. Large jellyfish patches persisted over the winter but then were less visible for the rest of the year. Large drifting algal mats appeared in August.
EOPS_July_24_2017,
July had warm air temperatures, sunshine, and an abundant snowpack. Previous months had higher river flows (bringing freshwater) and weak upwelling (low delivery of saltier water) which resulted in very low salinities in Puget Sound, especially in the South Sound. Water temperatures are expected and warmer in Central Sound. Above normal sunshine has made Puget Sound biologically very active! Intense and unusual blooms color Hood Canal (coccolithophores) and south sound inlets. Large mats of organic material containing macro-algae drift at the surface. Many schools of fish are visible though jellyfish were absent.
Ecology Publication No. 17-03-071
Record warm water temperatures and low oxygen continue in Ecology’s Puget Sound marine monitoring station network. Record low stream flows result in visibly low river discharge into Puget Sound, in particular for the Puyallup River. Abundant sun and unusually warm water temperatures fuel phytoplankton blooms in many areas. Bright orange Noctiluca blooms are surfacing in the Commencement Bay area and around Port Madison. Finger inlets of South Sound support extensive patches of jellyfish.
Puget Sound is starting to normalize in response to fall conditions with cooler air temperatures, rain, and recovering river flows. We are seeing fewer algal blooms, jellyfish, and macro-algae as salinities become more normal. Yet warm waters persist and El Nino and the Blob are likely to affect Puget Sound throughout the winter. The Nisqually River fared better through the drought than other rivers and best management practices have been improving its water quality. EOPS and ferry monitoring gain recognition with a national award for innovation!
EOPS_July_20_2016,
Through June, air temperatures and sunlight were higher than normal. Recent rain generally improved river flows. However, the Fraser river flow remains extremely low, reducing water exchange with the ocean. Water temperatures are still breaking records, yet dissolved oxygen levels are normal. Coastal bays are influenced by upwelling and exhibit lower oxygen and higher salinities. Puget Sound algae are thriving with blooms observed in many South Sound inlets. Macro-algae is seen piling up on beaches and drifting in Central Sound. Jellyfish smacks are numerous in Eld and Budd Inlets. Our fliers notice seals hanging out at the beach!
Ecology Publication No. 16-03-075
Dr. Christopher Krembs, with the marine monitoring unit of the Department of Ecology, presented on the warm water conditions in Puget Sound. He discussed the impacts on marine food webs and potential scenarios in 2015. He presented at the June 2015 NRC meeting.
EOPS_September_26_2016,
September is jellyfish season and they are everywhere in southern Puget Sound! Sunny, warm, and dry conditions promoted strong late-summer plankton blooms in colors of red, green, and brown, now widespread in many bays. In contrast, Central Sound looks clear with low algal activity. Southern Puget Sound has large floating mats of organic material and developed lower oxygen in August. Meet the Critter of the Month - The Sweet Potato Sea Cucumber.
Publication No. 16-03-077
EOPS_August_28_2017,
Warm air temperatures, abundant sunshine, and drier conditions persisted. River flows are lower in the north. Puget Sound waters are still fresher than in the past 17 years from the combination of abundant spring rain and weak upwelling bringing less salty water from the ocean. July upwelling was stronger, however. Warmer water temperatures are notable in parts of Central Sound, accompanied by large rafts of drifting macroalgae. Diverse blooms in colors of green, orange and red-brown are present in many inlets. Jellyfish abundance is lower this year. Find out how we assess if the benthos is changing.
Ecology Publication No. 17-03-072
Eyes Over Puget Sound (EOPS) is a news report, and is made available within two days of observation.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/
We inform on current surface conditions in Puget Sound and links several scales of observation together. The report contains condition summaries, personal flight observations, aerial photographs, en route ferry data, satellite images, and mooring data collected by the Marine Monitoring Unit at Ecology.
Ecology's Marine Monitoring Unit conducts several marine observations with a sampling frequency of minutes to 1 month. We use our routine commute flight between Kenmore Airbase and Olympia to document current marine water conditions by camera and supplement the information with satellite images and en route ferry data between Seattle WA and Victoria BC. This program is an example to optimize monitoring resources. You may subscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listserv by going to this link:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
Eyes Over Puget Sound (EOPS) is a news report, and is made available within two days of observation.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/
We inform on current surface conditions in Puget Sound and links several scales of observation together. The report contains condition summaries, personal flight observations, aerial photographs, en route ferry data, satellite images, and mooring data collected by the Marine Monitoring Unit at Ecology.
Ecology's Marine Monitoring Unit conducts several marine observations with a sampling frequency of minutes to 1 month. We use our routine commute flight between Kenmore Airbase and Olympia to document current marine water conditions by camera and supplement the information with satellite images and en route ferry data between Seattle WA and Victoria BC. This program is an example to optimize monitoring resources. You may subscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listserv by going to this link:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
Eyes Over Puget Sound (EOPS) is a news report, and is made available within two days of observation.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/
We inform on current surface conditions in Puget Sound and links several scales of observation together. The report contains condition summaries, personal flight observations, aerial photographs, en route ferry data, satellite images, and mooring data collected by the Marine Monitoring Unit at Ecology.
Ecology's Marine Monitoring Unit conducts several marine observations with a sampling frequency of minutes to 1 month. We use our routine commute flight between Kenmore Airbase and Olympia to document current marine water conditions by camera and supplement the information with satellite images and en route ferry data between Seattle WA and Victoria BC. This program is an example to optimize monitoring resources. You may subscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listserv by going to this link:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
At the end of summer, water temperatures are still high, and salinities and dissolved oxygen are low in Puget Sound. Both sea surface temperature and upwelling off the coast are elevated (PDO and Upwelling indices) and the the Fraser River flow is low. This combination makes it an interesting fall. Very dense and large patches of jellyfish appear in finger inlets of South Sound. Red-brown blooms also remain strong in South Sound.
The ocean and air remain warm with sunshine and dry weather across the region. As a result, Puget Sound is a lot warmer going into the new year. Hood Canal is responding with temperatures warmer than previous measurements, breaking its low temperature stint. First signs of growing phytoplankton are coloring the water green. Patches of jellyfish are overwintering in finger inlets of South Sound. Tidal fronts and suspended sediment are visible amidst the stunning San Juan Islands scenery. A sediment-rich water mass is trapped in Rosario Strait. Check out the South Sound Estuarium and the many reasons we love Puget Sound!
The year 2014 in pictures: In 2014, Puget Sound and Hood Canal behaved distinctly different in temperature and dissolved oxygen. In Puget Sound, generally warmer conditions, abundant and diverse algal blooms, and large pools of organic material persisted along with lower oxygen, high jellyfish abundances, and a lot of suspended sediment. On the other hand, Hood Canal was colder, more oxygenated, and algae blooms were rare. People and planes: past and present.
The pattern of colder and fresher Puget Sound water persists. Jellyfish aggregations continue to persist in Budd Inlet. Debris lines are numerous and long. There are multiple oil sheens in Seattle waterways. CDOM (colored dissolved organic matter) sensor and en route ferry thermosalinograph provide an important tracer for freshwater entering Puget Sound from Whidbey Basin.
Puget Sound is feeling the heat! Starting in October, temperatures are the highest on our record since 1989. Salinity and oxygen are much lower. Recent rains have rivers flowing high. Aerial views show dramatic sediment loads from rivers mixing into otherwise blue water. But don’t be fooled – by summer, snow-fed rivers are expected to run significantly below normal, with implications for Puget Sound water quality. For details, explore the special Drought Effects segment. Spring blooms are visible only in some confined bays. Jellyfish are going strong in finger inlets of South Sound. Glimpse Puget Sound’s glacial history.
Abundant sunshine gives rise to large algal mats in South Sound, Hood Canal, and Sinclair Inlet. Red-brown algal blooms dominate in Budd, Totten, and Eld Inlets and jellyfish begin to increase. Northerly winds push algal blooms from Whidbey and Central Basins past Seattle and a bloom in northern Hood Canal southward. Satellite thermal imagery shows patterns of near-surface mixing and injection of nutrients into the surface layer. Glacial-fed rivers deliver glacial flour into Commencement Bay, stratifying the water and supporting different colored phytoplankton blooms (green, brown, and red). Since the beginning of 2013, dissolved oxygen is dropping below expected values.
Eyes Over Puget Sound (EOPS) is a news report, and is made available within two days of observation.
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/
We inform on current surface conditions in Puget Sound and links several scales of observation together. The report contains condition summaries, personal flight observations, aerial photographs, en route ferry data, satellite images, and mooring data collected by the Marine Monitoring Unit at Ecology.
Ecology's Marine Monitoring Unit conducts several marine observations with a sampling frequency of minutes to 1 month. We use our routine commute flight between Kenmore Airbase and Olympia to document current marine water conditions by camera and supplement the information with satellite images and en route ferry data between Seattle WA and Victoria BC. This program is an example to optimize monitoring resources. You may subscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listserv by going to this link:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
A stunning view of a second large Noctiluca bloom captures the attention of many living near Puget Sound. Favorable conditions support several regional phytoplankton blooms. Red-brown blooms in Port Townsend, Discovery Bay and Bellingham Bay. Large algal mats or organic material particularly in Samish Bay. Jellyfish patches increasing in Budd, Totten and Eld Inlets.
After 2-years of conditions favorable for water quality, with colder temperatures and higher oxygen, Puget Sound water conditions are closer to expected again. This year phytoplankton blooms and seasonal oxygen maxima are notable, while extensive Noctiluca blooms showed up early following a period high freshwater inputs and milder weather conditions. The Fraser River sediment influence is very strong north of San Juan Islands and warm, fresh water is entering Central Puget Sound from Whidbey Basin. In the past few weeks river flows and air temperatures have been higher than normal and now are decreasing.
After 2-years of conditions favorable for water quality, with colder temperatures and higher oxygen, Puget Sound water conditions are closer to expected again. This year phytoplankton blooms and seasonal oxygen maxima are notable, while extensive Noctiluca blooms showed up early following a period high freshwater inputs and milder weather conditions. The Fraser River sediment influence is very strong north of San Juan Islands and warm, fresh water is entering Central Puget Sound from Whidbey Basin. In the past few weeks river flows and air temperatures have been higher than normal and now are decreasing.
Air temperatures are warm and Puget Sound continues to show record high water temperatures. Some rain has returned to our region, yet river flows remain unusually low. Puget Sound is saltier than normal allowing oxygen-rich surface waters to more easily mix to greater depths. Lower oxygen was measured only in the Coastal Bays, Hood Canal, and South Sound. Large jellyfish aggregations continue in South Sound, the Kitsap Peninsula, and East Sound (Orcas Island). Sediment plumes in Bellingham Bay form unique patterns. Warm waters and sunny conditions fostered green tides, raising a stink along some local beaches.
The weather changed from cool, cloudy and southerlies, to sunny warm conditions and light northerly winds on Mother’s Day. At the water surface, blooms and large debris lines occur in Bellingham, Padilla, and Samish Bays, Hood Canal, East Sound, and the Straits, as well as the finger inlets of South Sound. Large amounts of sediment-laden water from Port Susan are flowing into Central Basin. Turquoise water mixing to the surface in places around the San Juan Islands. After some trouble-shooting of the hardware and communication system, we will resume collecting Victoria Clipper data next week. Meet Eyes Under Puget Sound: Sediment Monitoring Program at Ecology.
EOPS_April_6_2016,
Despite warmer air temperatures, normal snowpack in the mountains suggest that summer freshwater flows into Puget Sound might be higher than last year. As of April, the spring plankton bloom has extended across Central and South Puget Sound. Ferry data shows chlorophyll increasing after March 25 and expanding across the area. With water temperatures above normal as a carry-over from 2015, jellyfish patches are numerous in inlets of South Sound and in Sinclair Inlet, unusual for this time of year. Check out the tiny burrowing ostracods as well as our Washington Conservation Corps Intern analyzing seawater oxygen.
Ecology Publication No. 16-03-072
Puget Sound conditions are normalizing after seven months of lower oxygen. Calm, dry, cool, and foggy mornings abruptly changed on October 28 to sun and strong northerly winds. Red-brown blooms and abundant jellyfish in south Puget Sound inlets appeared as we flew to the coast. Blooms were still visible near ocean beaches and inner bays. Grays Harbor had abundant surface debris with green algae in North Bay. We spotted red-brown blooms in rivers and sloughs in Willapa Bay, as well as schooling fish near sandbanks. Many patches of suspended sediment appeared in shallow water unrelated to tidal currents and remain unexplained.
A stunning view of a second large Noctiluca bloom captures the attention of many living near Puget Sound. Favorable conditions support several regional phytoplankton blooms. Red-brown blooms in Port Townsend, Discovery Bay and Bellingham Bay. Large algal mats or organic material particularly in Samish Bay. Jellyfish patches increasing in Budd, Totten and Eld Inlets.
A recent cold spell hits Puget Sound lowlands, interrupting this year’s warmer air temperatures. The warm ocean coincides with new maximum water temperatures observed throughout Puget Sound in October! Hood Canal’s higher dissolved oxygen and cold water anomalies are disappearing. November brings cold water from Whidbey Basin into Puget Sound with moderate levels of chlorophyll fluorescence. Abundant smacks of jellyfish in finger inlets of South Sound observed from our flight. Red-brown blooms remain strong in smaller bays of South Sound. Visible suspended sediments in the coastal estuaries from rain, wind, and waves. Playing in the water? Visit our BEACH program.
EOPS_November_22_2016,
ENSO is in a cold phase (La Niña) and it is wetter and warmer than normal. Strong precipitation in October greatly improved Puget Sound streamflows. At the coast, we had strong downwelling. As a result, water temperatures, salinities, and oxygen in Puget Sound are returning to normal. While surface water in Puget Sound has cooled, it is still warmer than in the Straits. Surprisingly, masses of suspended sediment occurred east of Steamboat Island in Totten Inlet. We continue to see large jellyfish aggregations in finger Inlets of South Sound and slowly fading red-brown blooms.
Publication No. 16-03-078
Warm waters from “The Blob” in Puget Sound combine with drought conditions as warm air has left little snow to feed the rivers. Water temperatures throughout Puget Sound are the highest in 25 years and oxygen is exhibiting record lows. High suspended sediment in the north is still coming in from the Fraser River. Otherwise, the surface waters appear very clear due to recent low river flows and weak blooming activity. A red bloom is present in Sinclair Inlet and in some confined bays. Patches of jellyfish, however, are going strong in inlets of South Sound and Sinclair Inlet. What does this all mean for salmon? Get to know some intertidal critters!
EOPS_October_6_2015,
Puget Sound is starting to normalize in response to fall conditions with cooler air temperatures, rain, and recovering river flows. We are seeing fewer algal blooms, jellyfish, and macro-algae as salinities become more normal. Yet warm waters persist and El Nino and the Blob are likely to affect Puget Sound throughout the winter. The Nisqually River fared better through the drought than other rivers and best management practices have been improving its water quality. EOPS and ferry monitoring gain recognition with a national award for innovation!
Ecology Publication No. 15-03-078
EOPS_December_14_2015,
As coastal and regional conditions gradually normalize in response to a fading Blob and increased rain, the big question remains. Will the snow in the mountains stay there or come down prematurely and lower salinity in Puget Sound like last winter? Cascade snowpack is currently below normal. The El Niño at the equator is still brewing! Major rivers transport large amounts of suspended sediments and soil into Puget Sound, also seen in our ferry sensor data. Our flight team gets in the pool for safety training.
Ecology Publication No. 15-03-079
Unusually warm water temperatures continue in central and south Puget Sound while Willapa Bay returns to expected water temperatures as a result of stronger coastal upwelling. Extensive mats of organic debris develop in many places, particularly in Central Sound overlapping with a fading Noctiluca bloom. King County confirms Noctiluca and shares plankton species information. Red-brown and brown blooms are going strong in southern inlets and around the San Juan Islands. Our inspiring WCC Intern gets on boats, into the air, and to the lab.
After weeks of clouds and warmer air, blue skies and cold temperatures set in. Strong tidal fronts and sediment-rich brackish plumes leave Whidbey Basin and move into Admiralty Reach. A pod of Orcas follows the edge of the plume heading north! Red-brown blooms continue in Henderson, Eld, and northern Budd Inlets. Long organic debris lines are numerous in northern Budd Inlet, Hood Canal, and in Central Sound north of Edmonds (Triple Junction). Conditions in the water column in Puget Sound continue to normalize after seven months of lower oxygen. Water is very clear for this time of the year, particularly in the north.
Sun and high air temperatures warrant en route ozone measurements for model validations. A furry visitor takes a rest on the float plane. Spotlight on our pilot, Joe Leatherman. High river flows lead to striking fronts of turquoise-colored water carrying glacial flour in many northeastern regions. Satellite and aerial images show widespread phytoplankton blooms in Whidbey Basin, Hood Canal, South Puget Sound, and West Bay of Orcas Island. Numerous large debris patches in Hood Canal, Central Sound, and South Sound Inlets. After two years of colder temperatures and higher oxygen, Puget Sound waters are returning to expected or lower dissolved oxygen levels.
Air temperatures have been slightly warmer and river flows are higher. Blooms are present only in Whidbey Basin and isolated bays. The water column otherwise is relatively clear. Sediment rich water is entering from the Stillaguamish River. Debris lines were visible in Hood Canal and North Sound. Multiple reported oil sheens seen in Lake Washington Ship Canal. Generally, the year 2014 started colder and saltier throughout Puget Sound. Oxygen is lower in Whidbey Basin, Central and South Sound, but higher in Hood Canal. Upwelling favorable conditions stimulate a spring phytoplankton bloom off the Washington coast.
River flows are above normal and air temperatures are increasing slowly. The spring phytoplankton bloom is slow to develop with visible blooms limited to smaller bays such as Sequim and Bellingham Bays. Noctiluca observed in East Sound on Orcas Island, coinciding with high numbers of jellyfish. Debris lines are mostly confined to Hood Canal. Pockets of colder water observed in Central Sound and Hood Canal, likely from the colder, saltier conditions that developed during the winter in the northern regions. Oxygen is variable yet close to expected ranges. Sizable oil sheens were sighted in Gig Harbor and Carr Inlet.
Executive Directors Chat Leveraging AI for Diversity, Equity, and InclusionTechSoup
Let’s explore the intersection of technology and equity in the final session of our DEI series. Discover how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can be used to support and enhance your nonprofit's DEI initiatives. Participants will gain insights into practical AI applications and get tips for leveraging technology to advance their DEI goals.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Francesca Gottschalk - How can education support child empowerment.pptxEduSkills OECD
Francesca Gottschalk from the OECD’s Centre for Educational Research and Innovation presents at the Ask an Expert Webinar: How can education support child empowerment?
Biological screening of herbal drugs: Introduction and Need for
Phyto-Pharmacological Screening, New Strategies for evaluating
Natural Products, In vitro evaluation techniques for Antioxidants, Antimicrobial and Anticancer drugs. In vivo evaluation techniques
for Anti-inflammatory, Antiulcer, Anticancer, Wound healing, Antidiabetic, Hepatoprotective, Cardio protective, Diuretics and
Antifertility, Toxicity studies as per OECD guidelines
A workshop hosted by the South African Journal of Science aimed at postgraduate students and early career researchers with little or no experience in writing and publishing journal articles.
A Strategic Approach: GenAI in EducationPeter Windle
Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies such as Generative AI, Image Generators and Large Language Models have had a dramatic impact on teaching, learning and assessment over the past 18 months. The most immediate threat AI posed was to Academic Integrity with Higher Education Institutes (HEIs) focusing their efforts on combating the use of GenAI in assessment. Guidelines were developed for staff and students, policies put in place too. Innovative educators have forged paths in the use of Generative AI for teaching, learning and assessments leading to pockets of transformation springing up across HEIs, often with little or no top-down guidance, support or direction.
This Gasta posits a strategic approach to integrating AI into HEIs to prepare staff, students and the curriculum for an evolving world and workplace. We will highlight the advantages of working with these technologies beyond the realm of teaching, learning and assessment by considering prompt engineering skills, industry impact, curriculum changes, and the need for staff upskilling. In contrast, not engaging strategically with Generative AI poses risks, including falling behind peers, missed opportunities and failing to ensure our graduates remain employable. The rapid evolution of AI technologies necessitates a proactive and strategic approach if we are to remain relevant.
1. September 16, 2014
Surface Conditions Report
Eyes Over Puget Sound
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Publication No. 14-03-077
Start here
Up-to-date observations of visiblewater quality conditions in Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca
MarineWater Condition Index
2. Personalfieldlog p.4
What is a phytoplanktonbloom,really?
Climateconditions p.6
Sunshine and warmtemperatures continue. The Fraser River
flow is below normal,PDO andupwelling are above normal.
Watercolumn p.7
As summer ends, temperatures are high in SouthSound. Low
dissolvedoxygenlevels are widespreadinPuget Sound, yet
remainhigh in HoodCanal.
Moorings p.38
At Mukilteo,continuous water temperature fluctuatedand
salinity declined. Upper mooringmeasuredstrongtidal effects.
Aerialphotography p.11
Numerous andlarge patches of jellyfishseeninfinger inlets of
SouthSoundand East Sound(Orcas Island). Red-brownblooms
remainstronginsmaller bays inside Puget Sound. Suspended
sediment fromNooksack andSkagit rivers are very visible.
Ferryand satellite p.40
Bloomincentral Puget Sound begins to fade as temperatures
cool. MODIS reveals extensivebloomat entrance to Strait of
Juande Fuca. Thermal imagery fromLandsat 8 shows relatively
warmwater inStrait of Georgia,Whidbey Basin,and finger inlets
of SouthPuget Sound.
LONG-TERMMARINEMONITORINGUNIT
Mya Keyzers
Laura Hermanson
Joe Leatherman
Skip Albertson
Dr. Christopher
Krembs
Guest:
Dr. Brandon
Sackmann,
Integral
Julia Bos
Suzan Pool
www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/eops/Previous Eyes Over Puget Sound reports:
Marine conditionsfrom 9-16-2014 at a glance
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
3. http://www.eopugetsound.org/Read about 2013 conditions in Puget Sound in the latest report from PSEMP
ThePuget Sound Marine Waters: 2013 Overview
• Informson the marine water conditions and
associated biota in Puget Sound. Itcompiles the
physical, chemical, and biological information
obtained fromdiverse marine monitoring and
observing programs.
• Represents a collaboration among agencies and
scientists forming a collective view of marine
water conditions to enhance the ecological
understanding of Puget Sound.
• Includes manyobservations from bacteria to
birds presented in context ofclimaticand
physical conditions affectingour water ways.
http://www.psp.wa.gov/downloads/psemp/PSm
arinewaters_2013_overview.pdf
FrontCoverPhoto Credit:JimDevereaux
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
4. All About Phytoplankton: Part 1
Haveyou ever looked at water fromPuget Sound under a
microscope? You may be surprised at whatyou see! Microscopic
single-celled algae called phytoplankton area crucial part of the
marineecosystem and are the foundation of the Puget Sound food
web. Two main types of phytoplankton arediatoms and
dinoflagellates.
Dinoflagellates are alsodiverse andcan
be brown,red, orange,or green.
Diatoms come inmany shapes andsizes,
andare usually green or brownin color. Diatomshavea rigid cell wall made of silica, can formchains, and
contain chloroplasts which make them purely photosynthetic. They
maketheir own food using sunlight.
Dinoflagellates have1-2 flagella that help them migrate vertically in
the water column and can formchains. Dinoflagellates havethe
ability to be photosynthetic, heterotrophic (consume other cells), or
even mixotrophic (able to photosynthesizeand consume other cells).
When it comes to the lower food web, dinoflagellates rule because
they are able to break all the rules!
Personal flight impression 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
5. Personal flight impression 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
What is a Bloom?
Blooms occur when planktonic cells divide at such high rates that their large biomass is
visible to the eye. This typically happens in the spring and fall when nutrient and
sunlight conditions are optimal.
While not alwaysvisible fromthe water, we can easily see the color and expanse of
bloomsfrom the air. The color is caused by chlorophylland other light-harvesting
pigments.
Themajority of blooms are not harmfuland are in fact naturally occurring. However,
excess nutrients (mainly nitrogen) can fuel blooms and have negative effects on water
quality. Over time, the location of blooms could indicate persistent nutrient sources.
Red bloom (dinoflagellatesand diatoms).
Green algal mats.
OrangeNoctiluca (dinoflagellate) bloom. Green diatom bloom.
Stay tuned for “All About Phytoplankton: Part2” next month!
6. Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Climateand natural influencesbefore 9-16-2014
Summary:
Air temperatures have generally
been above normal continuing the
trend of the past six months.
Precipitation has not occurred for
several days. The summer has been
dry, yet a few large rain events have
made it average normal.
Sunshine levels have been above
normal.
River flows are below normal for the
Fraser River, but near expected
elsewhere.
PDO remains in the warm phase and
upwelling is above normal for the first
time this summer, yet ocean intrusions
(using a new Intrusion index) of low
DO water have been sparse.
lowerhigher expected No data
New section! Climate and natural influences are conditions that influence our marine waters,
including weather, rivers, and the adjacent ocean (previously called Weather). For an explanation of
the figure, see: http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/eap/mar_wat/weather.html, page 26.
7. We use a chartered float
plane to access our
monthly monitoring
stations most cost
effectively.
We communicate data and
environmentalmarine
conditions using:
1. MarineWater
ConditionIndex
(MWCI)
2. EyesOverPuget
Sound (EOPS)
3. Anomaliesand
sourcedata
Fieldlog Weather Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Ourlong-termmarinemonitoringstationsinWashington
Starthere
Isl.
.
8. Salinity Variable Oxygen Stays LowerAugust2014: Temperature variable
Region
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Grays Harbor
Willapa Bay
North Sound
San Juan
Whidbey Basin
Hood Canal
Central Sound
South Sound
20142012 2013
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
20142012 2013
6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
20132012 2014
Physical conditionstracked in statistically historic context
In 2013, PugetSound waswarmer. Early 2014 started colder, and saltier with lower oxygen, then became fresher
dueto rain. At the end of summer, temperatures are high in South Sound and salinities and dissolved oxygen are
low in Central Sound. Hood Canal remains unusually cold and high in DO.
Fieldlog Weather Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
9. -25
-20
-15
-10
-5
0
5
10
15
20
25
-1.5
-1
-0.5
0
0.5
1
1.5
1945 1950 1955 1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000 2005 2010 2015
a) PacificDecadalOscillationIndex(PDO,temperature) (explanation)
b) UpwellingIndex(anomalies)(Upwelling,lowoxygen) (explanation)
c) NorthPacificGyreOscillationIndex(NPGO,productivity) (explanation)
NPGO(x10)
PDO/UpwellingIndex
Three-year running average of PDO, Upwelling, and NPGO indices scores
Ocean boundaryconditions have been favorable for water qualityin Puget Sound: (a)colder water (PDO),
(b)less upwelled lowoxygen and high nutrient ocean water reachingPuget Sound (UpwellingIndex),and
(c) higher surface productivityalongthe coast (NPGO). Where are we headingnext?
Fieldlog Weather Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
.
Theoceanaffectswaterquality: OceanClimateIndices
10. Explore the data
Is the food web changing in Puget Sound?
The story in5 min
Follow the experts
Hypothesis!
Should wepay
greater attention to
nutrientratios,
energy transfer,
and material cycling
in Puget Sound?
Noctiluca blooms are
a visible harbinger of
a changing microbial
food web in Puget
Sound waters.
11. Summary: Aerial photography9-16-2014
Numerousand largepatches of jellyfish seen in finger inlets of South Sound and East Sound
(OrcasIsland). Red-brown bloomsremain strong in smaller baysinside Puget Sound.
Suspended sediment fromNooksack and SkagitRivers are very visible.
Fieldlog Weather Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Start here
Mixing andFronts:
Developed frontsand mixing visible by colored surface water.
Debris:
Localized organic debris north and south of Lummi Island and
along tidal fronts.
Visible blooms:
Green-brown: Fidalgo Bay, SkagitBay, Saratoga Passage,
and PortSusan.
Red-brown: Budd, Eld, Henderson, Carr, and Sinclair
Inletsand Eagle Harbor.
Jellyfish:
Jellyfish patches large and numerous in southern inlets of
South Sound and East Sound (OrcasIsland).
BloomDebrisFront
Suspendedsediment:
Sediments in glacier-fed Skagit and Nooksack riversinfluence a
widearea.
Plume
Green: What is golf course,what is water?
Nothingat the surface inPort Gamble
Boat
Internal waves
Bloom
5 7
1 2 8 18
7 9 13 14
1 2 3 4 6 10 11 13 15 16 17
20
19
18
1 10 11 13 17 1918
12. Straitof
Juan de Fuca
San Juan Islands
Padilla Bay
Main Basin
Hood Canal
South Sound
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Observation Maps:
Afternoonflight,photos 9-20:
Overcast,hazy,calm
Flight Information:
Morningflight,photos 1-8
Overcast low visibility,calm
8
19
11
10
13 14
15
Aerial photography
and navigation guide
20
6
Centraland NorthSound
SouthSound
SeattleTides:H.tide:12:53PM11:25PM,,L.tide:5:08AM,6:36PM
7
12
Whidbey Basin
5
Flight route and fuelingstop
17
16
9
18
3
2
1
4
13. A. B.
Debris
Red-brown bloom and many patches of jellyfish.
Location: A.Cooper Point. B.Gull Harbor, Budd Inlet (South Sound),9:29 AM.
1 Aerial photography 9-16-2014 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Boat
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
Bloom
Debris
14. A. B.
2 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Red-brown bloom and many jellyfishpatches.
Location: A.Off Frye Cove. B. Near YoungCove Eld Inlet (South Sound),9:35 AM.
jellyfish
Bloom
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
jellyfish
Bloom
jellyfish
Debris
16. A. B.
4 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
Red-brown bloom inside the inlet.
Location: ScowBay, Marrowstone Island (CentralSound),10:14AM.
Bloom
boat
Bloom
17. 5 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Two distinguishable water masses outline surface water movements.
Location: Fort Ebey, AdmiraltyReach (Central Sound),10:21AM.
Ship
Front
Boat
18. Red-brown bloom traces patterns of water circulation in bay.
Location: Mud Bay,Lopez Sound (San Juan Islands),10:30 AM.
6 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Boat
Bloom
Bloom
Boat
19. Suspended sediment highlights mixing patterns of water entering from East Sound.
Location: Deer Point,Obstruction Pass (San Juan Islands),10:25 AM.
7 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
mixing
Plume
mixing
20. Numerous patches of jellyfish.
Location: Cascade Bay,East Sound (San Juan Islands),11:14 AM.
8 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Boat
jellyfish
jellyfishjellyfish
jellyfish
21. Two distinguishable water masses with sediment-richwater from the Nooksack River .
Location:Off Point Migley,Lummi Bay (North Sound),12:05 PM.
9 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Boat
Boat
Plume
Boat
Boat
22. 10 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Small red-brown phytoplankton bloom following local pattern of advection.
Location: Fishermans Cove,Whatcom ChiefFerry(North Sound),12:07 PM.
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Bloom
boat
Debris
boat
boat
23. 11 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Large patches of organic surface debris and phytoplankton-rich water leaving bay.
Location: OffSamish Island,Samish Bay(North Sound),12:50 PM.
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Boat
Bloom
ship
ship
24. Glacial-fedwater from the Skagit River drives estuarine circulation in Whidbey Basin in the summer.
Location: Swinomish Channel,Skagit Bay(WhidbeyBasin),1:22PM.
12 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
boat
SwinomishChannel
Skagit River
jetty
25. Skagit River plume flowing northwest next to near-shore phytoplankton bloom.
Location: Goat Island,Skagit River estuary(WhidbeyBasin),1:22 PM.
13 NavigateAerial photography 9-16-2014
Bloom
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Plume
Debris
26. Sediment-richwater entering from Davis Slough by flowing over flooded mudflats.
Location: Livingston Bay,Port Susan (WhidbeyBasin),1:51 PM.
14 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
submergedgully
Plume
27. 15 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
A mix of sediment-and phytoplankton-rich water drifting southward over shallow water.
Location: Off Triangle Cove,Port Susan (WhidbeyBasin),1:53 PM.
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
Bloom
Davis Slough
StillaguamishRiver
29. Fishpen
A. B.
17 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Red-brown and golden-brown blooms along with small amounts of organic surface debris.
Location: A.Allen Point,B. Henderson Bay,Carr Inlet (South Sound),4:10 PM.
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
Bloom
Bloom
BloomDebris
30. Debris
18 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Red-brown bloom and patches of jellyfish.
Location: Over Woodland BayConservationArea,Henderson Inlet (South Sound),4:20PM.
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
boat
pilings Bloom
jellyfish
jellyfish
31. 19 Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Red-brown bloom and patches of organic debris outlining pattern of circulation in inner bay.
Location: Southern Henderson Inlet (South Sound),4:20PM.
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
Boat
Debris
Bloom
Boat
32. 20 Navigate
Red-brown bloom outlining pattern of circulation in inner bay.
Location:Southern Henderson Inlet (South Sound),4:21PM.
Aerial photography 9-16-2014
Bloom
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
33. NorthSound/SanJuan Islands
Numbers on map refer to picture numbers for spatial reference
Date: 9-16-2014
CentralSound
Aerial photography observations in Central SoundObservations in Central and North Sound Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
5
6
10
9
13 14
11
12
15
16
4
3
7
8
34. Date: 9-16-2014
Observations in Hood Canal and South Sound
Numbers on map refer to picture numbers for spatial reference
Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
SouthSound
17
18
19
201
2
35. Legendto map annotations
Comments:
Maps are producedby observers during and
after flights. They are intendedto give an
approximate reconstructionofthe surface
conditions onscales that connect to and
overlapwithsatellite images inthe sectionthat
follows.
Debris:
Debris canbe distinguished into natural and
anthropogenic debris floatingat the surface
sensu Moore andAllen(2000). The majority of
organic debris inPuget Sound is natural and
mixedwithdiscardedman-made pieces of
plastic,wood,etc. Fromthe plane,we cannot
differentiatethe quality of debris at the surface
andtherefore,call it for reasons of practicality
just “debris”.
S.L. Moore,M. J. Allen. 2000. Distribution of
Anthropogenic and Natural Debris on the
Mainland Shelf of the Southern California Bight.
Marine Pollution Bulletin,40(1): 83–88.
Navigate
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
36. Current Conditions:
Bloomin central Puget Sound begins to fade as
temperatures cool; max temperatures generally
<15 °C. MODIS revealsextensive bloom at entrance to
Straitof Juan de Fuca. Thermal imagery from Landsat
8 shows warmer water in Strait of Georgia, Whidbey
Basin, and finger inlets of South Puget Sound.
Brandon Sackmann
Contact: bsackmann@integral-corp.com
26 July2014
Hardware upgrades onthe Victoria Clipper IV
successfully restorednear real-time data collection
as of July 23, 2014; we are back online!
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Ferry and satelliteobservations9-16-2014
Starthere
16 September 2014
37. C. Weak tides in August and September associated with
warmer temperaturesin Strait of Juan de Fuca.
A. Strong algae bloom in central Puget Sound during
firstweek of September.
B. Stratification shows signs of weakening (temperature
is declining indicating mixing) and bloom is dissipating.
C. C.
B.
B.A.
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Ferry and satellite observations9-16-2014
3:47PM
Victoria Clipper rendezvous near Kingston
38. Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Ferry and satellite observations9-16-2014
MODIS-Terra (top) and MODIS-
Aqua (bottom) revealintense
offshorebloomnear entrance
to Strait of Juan de Fuca!
True Color Turbidity
Chlorophyll
Imagery obtained fromNASA’sOceanColor WEB
http://oceancolor.gsfc.nasa.gov/
39. Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Ferry and satellite observations9-16-2014
Thermalimagery fromthe Landsat 8
satellite show warmwatersthroughout
Straitof Georgia and Whidbey Basin (left).
Warmer temperatures werein finger inlets
throughoutSouth PugetSound; cooler
temperatureshighlight areas experiencing
increased mixing (top).
15 September2014
40. Mooring observationsand trends
9-4-2014 to 9-16-2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
2-6 m depth
Dissolvedoxygennot
measured
12-16 m depth
These plots show the
probability of
observationsover the
pasttwo-week period.
High probability shown in
warmcolors.
Left Panels: Density is
defined by salinity and
temperature.
Right Panel: Dissolved
oxygen concentration in
relation to salinity.
AtMukilteo, we observed strong tidal effects fromour upper mooring. On the lower mooring,
temperaturefluctuated, with a temporal pattern somewhat reverse of the daily tidal range. Technical
issues may haveaffected the near-bottomsalinity measurements. Variable winds and reduced river
flowslessen the export of freshwater leaving Puget Sound.
Dissolvedoxygensensor
issues; not presented
41. Mooring observationsand trends
8-17-2014to 9-16-2014
Click on icon to view real-
time data of the moorings
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Our mooringstation in Mukilteo is located
in WhidbeyBasin near Everett. It is also
located at the transition between
Possession and CentralSounds at a depth
that is influenced bythe Skagit and
Snohomish river discharges,prevailing
winds,and tidal mixing.
As the largest regional contributor of
freshwater to Puget Sound,understanding
the timingand magnitude ofthe Skagit
river flow is important.
We present data ofdailymeans for the
past 31 days. Data are plotted in Pacific
Standard Time. Wind dataare from Paine
Field in Everett. River flow data are from
USGS.
42. Mooring observationsand trends
Mukilteo2010 to 2014
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings
Pleasenote that data are provisional. Data are in GMT.
At the Mukilteo mooring,we use the near-bottom
sensor (12-16 m deep) to measure significant
inter-annualvariabilityin temperature,salinity
and dissolved oxygen.
Inter-annual variabilityis shown over a 4.5-year
period. All three variables showstrong
seasonality.
In 2014, trends in salinityand dissolved oxygen
appear to decline whereas trends in temperature
are similar to 2013. Our bath verifications
indicated the dissolved oxygen sensor failedin
earlyJuly and thus,dissolved oxygen data for July
2014 is from latter halfof the month.
44. You maysubscribe or unsubscribe to the Eyes Over Puget Sound email listservby going to:
http://listserv.wa.gov/cgi-bin/wa?A0=ECOLOGY-EYES-OVER-PUGET-SOUND
Many thanks to our business partners: Clipper Navigations,SwantownMarina,andKenmore Air.
We are looking forfeedbackto improve ourproducts.
Dr. ChristopherKrembs
christopher.krembs@ecy.wa.gov
Marine Monitoring Unit
EnvironmentalAssessment Program
WA Department of Ecology
Fieldlog Climate Water column Aerial photos Ferry andSatellite Moorings