dedicated regions in the U.S., only one is in Oregon, established in Lincoln City in 1976. The Cascade Head Marine Reserve was established to protect marine habitats, promote biodiversity and educate visitors. A portion of the biosphere reserve is a protected wildlife sanctuary. At low tide, you can peek into tide pools for anemones and sea stars. You can also spot gray whales migrating throughout the year. When visiting, keep in mind that hunting, camping, fires, bicycles, removal of foliage and dogs are not allowed (even on a leash). ART & NATURE PROGRAMS For an immersive experience, you can join seasonal programs and workshops provided by supporting organizations. The Cascade Head Biosphere Collaborative — in collaboration with Explore Lincoln City — offers naturalist- led hikes that explore the rare flora, fauna and geology of the biosphere reserve, along with current conservation efforts on the Salmon River. It also hosts afternoon and moonlit kayak tours, as well as a 45-minute boat ride around the estuary. You can take a deep dive into art and nature with some of the region’s premier artists. Duncan Berry, an artist who calls the biosphere home, offers seasonal workshops on gyotaku, the traditional art form of Japanese fish printing. The Sitka Center for Art and Ecology explores connections to nature through art with its workshop program that runs May through September. You’ll find over 100 artist-led courses that range from watercolor journaling in the forest to Native American basket weaving and woodworking. The historic Camp Westwind is set on 529 acres (214 ha) in the middle of the biosphere reserve and offers traditional summer camps for youth, teens and families with a range of activities from archery to arts and crafts. In April all are invited to attend a free Earth Day event with conservation talks, walks and other activities. In late autumn, the camp hosts two popular mushroom-foraging camps. Artist Duncan Berry Salmon River Estuary Sitka Center for Art and Ecology CLOCKWISE FROM LEFT: COURTESY OF DUNCAN BERRY; ALEX JORDAN; JOSH HAVELIND EXPLORELINCOLNCITY.COM 7
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