Domino Effect

Just in this one picture of Arcata Marsh, a curious mind might
initiate a domino effect of questions. What types of clouds
are on the horizon? What is the salinity level of the water?
How many shorebirds can an area like this support?
The learning opportunities are endless!

I learned two valuable lessons today thanks to the great group of COASSTers that joined me for a focus group conversation in northern California. The first, and certainly most quirky, is that getting a group of folks together to talk about dead birds and what they mean is much more fun than it sounds! Second, I was reminded that there is absolutely never a reason to be bored. Ever. With regards to my second point, the volunteers I spoke with today all reflected that COASST has been one avenue through which to chase knowledge of all sorts, often kindling interests previously unexplored. Despite varied initial motivations to engage in the program, each has found that the consistent, purposeful, and focused trips to the same beach that the COASST program facilitates has not only enhanced first-hand knowledge about birds (both dead and alive), but also piqued all sorts of new interests. From coastal geomorphology, geology and aeolian sediment transport, to weather patterns and ocean currents, to riverine landscape change and erosion patterns, these COASSTers have found plenty to intrigue them while conducting their monthly surveys. Part of that, I suspect, is that COASSTers as a whole are a naturally inquisitive bunch. Nonetheless, having a reason (or should I say prod) to get out to the same stretch of beach at least once a month provides a unique opportunity to notice both subtle and not so subtle localized change. Those changes that only a regular visitor of a place would notice are what make COASST volunteers so valuable as members of a collaborative scientific research team. There is always the prospect that something new will spark a sense of curiosity, leading to further investigation, observation, and learning. Hence, I say, this crew of COASSTers has convinced me there is never a reason to be bored. Taking their example as a guide, I’m encouraged to open my eyes and ears more often so that curiosity can ignite a domino effect of lifelong learning.