Where We Live
We live in the Skagit River valley and on islands just west of its delta. This map shows the rich tide flats, estuaries, and rocky intertidal beaches that comprise the 229 miles of marine coastline that are the focus of much of Skagit County Beach Watchers monitoring, restoration, and educational activities. However, Skagit County stretches far east to the glaciers, ancient forests, and wilderness of the High Cascades. The Skagit River flows through these rugged mountains before traversing the forested foothills and passing through the fertile Skagit Valley; ultimately emptying into Skagit Bay and Puget Sound.
Thus, we dwell within Puget Sound’s largest watershed and we recognize that fresh water from the Skagit and the smaller Samish River are important contributors to the health and diversity of Puget Sound. Five salmon and two trout species return to their birthplaces up these rivers, connecting the valleys and mountains to the north Pacific. Padilla Bay National Estuarine Reserve protects and studies Puget Sound’s largest eel grass meadow, where many marine species (such as juvenile salmon) spend at least some part of their lives.
For thousands of years Swinomish, Upper Skagit, Sauk-Suiattle, and Samish people have lived here. They are active today in protecting and restoring the Skagit marine environment.
Our parks and other public lands provide abundant opportunities to experience Skagit County’s miles of shoreline. Thus, you’ll often find Beach Watchers at these sites, providing Beach Naturalist programs; identifying and removing creosote, noxious species, and marine debris; and conducting surveys to document the rich biological diversity of our county. Check our calendar and come join us!