Guided exploration at Point Whitehorn this weekend

By Alyssa Evans

Community members can explore Point Whitehorn Marine Park in a hands-on setting this weekend.

The annual What’s the Point beach exploration event goes from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 24, at the park, which is south of Birch Bay State Park. Admission is free and open to all ages.

Participants will be able to learn about intertidal creatures and seaweeds, birds, native plants, forest ecology, and local geology from naturalists, who will lead tours and answer questions.

Children may play naturalist Bingo while hunting for plants and animals. They will also be able to explore tidepools with storytellers. There will also be a booth with touchable marine animal pelts.

Point Whitehorn Marine Park features a 0.75-mile trail that goes through forested wetland and includes views at the top of the bluff overlooking the beach and the Strait of Georgia. The trail is wheelchair accessible.

The 54-acre park is part of the 227-acre Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve. Whatcom Land Trust took possession of the park in 2007 and transfered the land to Whatcom County Parks and Recreation. The trust has a conservation easement over the park, meaning the park has long-term protection.

Whatcom Land Trust and Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve Citizen Stewardship Committee sponsor the event. The Marine Life Center, Washington State Department of Natural Resources, Whatcom County Parks & Recreation and RE Sources for Sustainable Communities are partners of the event.

Participants are asked to bring picnic lunches and drinking water, outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes, waterproof sunscreen and bags to take trash out of the park. Pets should be left at home, as the park does not allow dogs.

Those interested are asked to RSVP at facebook.com/events/139319099952828/.