🌊✨ Just wrapped up an incredible adventure on the Oregon Coast, and we couldn't be more excited to share it!
From the stunning views at Cannon Beach to the cozy vibes of Salishan Coast Lodge, our getaway was nothing short of magical. 🌅 We dove into the art of foraging—discovering the rich flavours of seaweed, digging for purple clams, and crabbing along the picturesque shores. Each experience was a delightful reminder of nature's bounty.
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, the Oregon Coast is calling your name! Read more below in this blog post for all the details on our foraging escapades and the best spots to savour the coastal treasures.
#OregonCoast #Foraging #CannonBeach #SalishanCoastLodge #UmamiShop 🐚🌊
Foraging seaweed along the coast can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to do it sustainably and safely. Here are some of the best methods for foraging seaweed:
1. Research Local Regulations: Before you head out, check local laws regarding foraging. Some areas have restrictions on the types and amounts of seaweed you can collect.
2. Choose the Right Tide: Low tide is the best time for foraging, as it exposes more of the shoreline and the seaweed beds. Plan your trip around the tidal schedule.
3. Use the Right Tools: Bring along a small knife or scissors for cutting seaweed, and a bucket or bag to collect your finds. Avoid using tools that could damage the ecosystem.
4. Identify Edible Varieties: Familiarize yourself with local seaweed species. Common edible types include nori, dulse, kelp, and wakame. Make sure you can positively identify them before consumption.
5. Harvest Responsibly: Only take what you need and leave plenty for the ecosystem. A good rule of thumb is to harvest no more than one-third of what you find in any given area.
6. Observe the Environment: Look for clean areas free of pollution or contaminants. Avoid foraging near industrial sites or areas with heavy boat traffic.
7. Rinse and Store Properly: After harvesting, rinse the seaweed in clean seawater or fresh water to remove sand and debris. Store it in a cool, shaded place until you can process it.
8. Learn from Experienced Foragers: Consider joining a local foraging group or taking a workshop to learn from those with experience.
9. Respect Nature* Always be mindful of the environment and the marine ecosystem. Leave no trace and ensure that your foraging practices do not harm the habitat.
By following these methods, you can enjoy a safe and sustainable seaweed foraging adventure!
The moon phase has a significant impact on tidal patterns due to the gravitational pull it exerts on the Earth's oceans. Here’s how it works:
1. Tidal Forces: The moon's gravitational force pulls water towards it, creating a bulge or high tide on the side of the Earth facing the moon. There is also a second high tide on the opposite side due to the centrifugal force created by the Earth-moon system.
2. Spring Tides: When the moon is full or new, the sun, moon, and Earth are aligned. This alignment results in the strongest gravitational pull on the oceans, leading to higher high tides and lower low tides. These are known as spring tides.
3. Neap Tides: When the moon is in its first or third quarter phase, the sun and moon are at right angles relative to the Earth. This position reduces the gravitational pull on the oceans, resulting in lower high tides and higher low tides, known as neap tides.
4. Tidal Cycle: Tides typically follow a cycle, with two high tides and two low tides occurring approximately every 24 hours. The timing and height of these tides can vary based on the moon phase, local geography, and other factors like weather conditions.
5. Lunar Cycle Influence: The complete lunar cycle lasts about 29.5 days, which means the tidal patterns will also change throughout this period, affecting activities like fishing, foraging, and boating.
Understanding the relationship between moon phases and tidal patterns is crucial for activities along the coast, such as foraging for seaweed or crabbing, as it helps in planning the best times for these activities.
Read more in our next blog post about our crabbing experience on the Oregon Coast!
