Island County Marine Resources Committee (MRC) is an advisory body to county government established in 1999 and comprised of many community volunteers who represent diverse interests and industries, with the common goal to protect and restore marine resources in the Puget Sound area through scientific monitoring, restoration projects, and community education.

About Us
Photo credit: Rich Yukubousky
MRC Meeting
: Room B-102, County Annex Building, Coupeville
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Bull kelp bed at Ben Ure Island. Credit: Debra Paros

Bull kelp in Island County

Our bull kelp team conducts boat-based surveys of select beds around Island County to observe changes throughout the growing season, and compare results from year to year. We also utilize aerial photography to identify beds and measure the extent of shoreline with associated bull kelp beds.

Read all about the project and findings in our 2018 report. You can also check out videos of the variety of life observed within kelp beds on our project page!

2018 Kelp Report
Craig and Joy Johnson accept award. Credit: Joseph Sheldon

Craig and Joy Johnson honored as 2019 Coastal Volunteers of the Year!

Craig and Joy Johnson were selected as the 2019 Island County Coastal Volunteers of the Year. The Johnsons have worked as a team, donating valuable artistic and writing skills in support of many Island County organizations.

The Johnsons use their talents to educate the public about birds and wildlife along the shoreline, inspiring the protection and preservation of these creatures and their habitats.

Read More About The Johnsons And This Prestigious Award Here!