Friends of The Salish Sea

At Friends of the Salish Sea, volunteers are at the heart of protecting our marine environment. Across multiple counties, we monitor stormwater pollution, support biodiversity, and educate and partner with communities to better understand and care for our local waters.

Your GiveBIG donation directly supports community science-equipping volunteers, expanding monitoring, and helping us turn data into action for healthier beaches, wildlife, and people.

The Stormwater Project engages trained volunteers to monitor pollution flowing from municipal stormwater outfalls into Puget Sound. By collecting consistent, high-quality data, this program helps identify water quality concerns and supports local efforts to protect marine habitats and public health. Data is shared with municipalities, agencies, and communities to inform solutions and improve stormwater management. We are currently active in 8 coastal cities throughout the Salish Sea and aiming to add more soon!

Stormwater Project Actions:

Monitoring of water quality at municipal outfalls

Collection of data including bacteria, turbidity, conductivity, pH, and dissolved oxygen

Community science that informs local stormwater management decisions and encourages stewardship

Data sharing with municipalities, agencies, and the public

The Biodiversity Project provides support to state programs that protect rare ecosystems, plant and animal communities, and species in Washington State. The Aquatic Reserves, Natural Areas, and Washington Natural Heritage programs are all within the Department of Natural Resources. 

Biodiversity Project Actions:

Support for assessment and inventory of threatened ecosystems

Support for volunteer stewards, community science, and educational

Research and monitoring to support adaptive management 

Restoration and invasive species management

The Lecture Series connects communities with experts to deepen understanding of the Salish Sea and the issues affecting it. Hosted in Anacortes, Edmonds, and Olympia, these events feature scientists, researchers, and professionals who share knowledge on marine ecosystems, conservation, and regional environmental challenges. Our lectures provide opportunities to connect science with local stewardship and provide experiences that inspire action and awareness.