When retired high school science teacher Mike Antrim moved from Southern California to Anacortes in 2016, he was eager to dive into the ecosystems of his new home. Through the Salish Sea Stewards program, run by Skagit County Marine Resources and the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Mike discovered Skagit Land Trust – and a calling to join our Great Blue Heron monitoring project at March Point Heronry.
Having once helped create a wetland haven for herons in Nebraska, Mike was excited to assist with heron monitoring in the Skagit. Through their home computers, Mike and other monitors operate the Trust’s three wildlife cameras and observe the birds’ intricate cycle of courtship, nesting, and fledging. “It’s always exciting to see newly hatched herons grow and interact with their siblings and parents,” Mike says.
When the nesting season ends, Mike joins the on-site nest count. “I find it amazing that one of the largest heron colonies on the West Coast is right here on Fidalgo Island,” he adds. For nine years, Mike has also participated in the Skagit Heron Foraging Study, run by the Wildlife Conservation Trust in cooperation with Oregon State University’s Department of Biological and Ecological Engineering.
Left: Nest count volunteers pose for a group photo, smiling from a day of sunshine, camaradarie, and fresh air. Right: A March Point heron hovers above its baby during nesting season in June.
In addition to all his heron-related efforts, Mike finds time to volunteer with the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Deception Pass State Park, and the Anacortes Community Forest Lands. Mike’s curiosity and dedication embody the heart of community science, which empowers community members to understand and protect local ecosystems. “By volunteering with Skagit Land Trust and other organizations, I have opportunities to both learn about and help protect our environment,” he says. “I want to help ensure that future generations have access to enjoy these natural lands.” Skagit Land Trust’s community is fueled by volunteers like Mike who bring their knowledge, talents, and time to support local conservation.
Are you interested in becoming a volunteer? You can visit our website to sign-up for a work party, or contact Stacy Dahl, our Volunteer & Education Programs Coordinator, to see how your skills can be used to further our mission of local conservation: stacyd@skagitlandtrust.org or call 360-428-7878 x212.