Fish & Feathers Natural gifts to be thankful for

Published 9:37 am Wednesday, December 2, 2015

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we who live on the Peninsula often reflect on the reasons why we live here. We appreciate the environment that affects all of our lives.

The most obvious feature we live near is water; on the west we have the Pacific Ocean, which provides us with beautiful sunsets, the fury of the winter storms, unequaled salmon, halibut, bottom fish, albacore and Dungeness crab for both recreational and commercial fishing. Whale watching is also a spectator sport enjoyed by many, as gray whales pass on their way to and from Mexico.

Commercial fishing is the backbone of the Peninsula, providing many jobs for local residents. Recreational fishing and clamming also help support motels, RV parks, eating establishments, grocery stores, marinas and just about every other kind of business.

The Peninsula is bordered on the east by Willapa Bay, sometimes called one of the most pristine bodies of water in the U.S. It contains oyster beds, crab and salmon another commercial ventures that provide hundreds of jobs to support our economy.

The ocean and bay provide shelter to many species of ducks, geese and shorebirds during their migrations.

Eagles, once in short supply, have become a very common sight, especially while driving the beach. They can be observed perched on snags or feeding on carrion on the edge of the sea. They provide ample opportunities for camera buffs to test their skills in multiple settings.

Beachcombing is also a daily ritual for many — searching for the treasures that the ocean provides, including driftwood. The really lucky still occasionally find Japanese glass balls in all shapes and sizes.

Our diversity of wildlife is outstanding. The Long Beach Peninsula hosts many land animals, which you may be able to observe in their natural habitat. Elk, deer, raccoons, coyotes, skunks and other critters are obvious. The ever-elusive cougar is rarely seen, but we know they’re here.

Black bears are certainly a permanent resident and frequently are seen strolling with their cubs in search of food. By the way, Pacific County is sometimes said to host the second largest population of black bears in the mainland U.S., after an area in Pennsylvania.

But certainly the most prominent feature is the residents, the people who fill our daily lives. Many are retired and spend a wealth of time serving as volunteers in community service. The three fraternal lodges — Eagles, Elks and Moose — donate many thousands of dollars supporting children, handicapped patients, animal shelters, food banks, rescue personnel and countless other charities and services.

People are friendly on the street, in the stores and in general. You are met with a smile and greeting. They are helping, loving and, for the most part, very caring people.

That’s why I live on the Long Beach Peninsula and I love it!

Ron Malast can be reached at 665-3573 or raiders7777@centurylink.net.