Representatives of Surfrider Foundation spoke at city council on September 23rd, requesting the city's help and support in taking action to address the issue of Cowell's Beach being #1 on Save our Shores Beach Bummer list. The "Cowell's Working Group" was formed shortly thereafter, and our monthly meetings consisting of scientist, educators, engineers, and environmental activists from around Santa Cruz continue to produce results moving towards a solution.
The Blue Water Task Force continues to run strong and is gaining momentum thanks to the passion and dedication of the volunteer sampling/testing team on a weekly basis. We have added some new sampling spots throughout Santa Cruz, including an actual surf zone location at Cowell's in response to the needs of the Cowell's Working Group, and have found the "Surf Zone" to have consistently less bacteria present than the beach (sand) site.
Possibly most importantly, we have gone to various schools throughout the county, teaching and mentoring students who are the next generation of environmental activists and protectors of our oceans, coasts, and waterways. Above all, seeing kids get stoked on making a difference and being a positive change has been the most rewarding thing for me.
Sam Blakesley,
Blue Water Task Force Coordinator