About Us
Mission
The Salish Sea Guillemot Network brings community science volunteers together to provide vital data that expands our understanding of Pigeon Guillemots, educates the public, strengthens our connection to the marine environment, informs conservation, and inspires stewardship.
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Our History
The pigeon guillemot breeding survey was initiated on Whidbey Island in 2004 by Frances Wood and Dr. Phyllis Kind. With support from the Whidbey Audubon Society, they developed a survey protocol and trained volunteers. The survey typically runs from June to August, depending on breeding activity, and is almost entirely conducted by community volunteers.
Over the years, more organizations have joined in to conduct the survey within their own regions. This expansion developed into the Salish Sea Guillemot Network (SSGN), a collective of independent coordination groups who conduct the breeding survey across the Salish Sea. As of 2024, surveys are being conducted in eight different regions, with ~260 volunteers network wide:
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Whidbey Island
Sponsored by Whidbey Audubon. Coordinators: Lee Badovinus and Michele Sakaguchi
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Clallam County
Sponsored by Clallam County Marine Resources Committee and Olympic Peninsula Audubon. Coordinators: Ed Bowlby and Robert Phreaner
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Camano Island
Managed by Sound Water Stewards of Island County. Coordinators: Melissa Cole and Dennis Johnson
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Kitsap/Bainbridge Island
Sponsored by Kitsap Audubon. Coordinator: Cindy Holtz
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Vashon Island
Managed by Vashon Nature Center with support from Vashon Audubon. Coordinator: Alex Brown
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South Sound
Managed by Nisqually Reach Nature Center. Coordinators: Anne Mills and Shannon Boldt
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Jefferson County East
Sponsored by Rainshadow Bird Alliance. Coordinator: Dr. Brenda Johnson
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San Juan County (on pause for 2026)
Currently looking for a coordinator!
Additionally, the SSGN collaborates with and receives support from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and D. Sarah Converse's Quantitative Conservation Lab at the University of Washington. We have had additional financial support from National Audubon Society and the Northwest Straits Initiative.
Interested in Getting Involved?
Find the closest survey region to you and fill out a volunteer application!