Clay Myers at Whalen Island

Clay Myers State Natural Area at Whalen Island encompasses 20 acres of coastal estuary, tidal marsh, and sand spit near Sand Lake on Oregon's northern coast, preserving critical wetland habitat and providing opportunities for kayaking, birdwatching, and nature study. The park is named for Clay Myers, Oregon Secretary of State and conservationist who championed coastal protection. Whalen Island is actually a peninsula surrounded by estuary channels and wetlands at the confluence of Sand Lake with the Pacific Ocean. The natural area protects exceptional birdinghabitat, including nesting sites for seabirds and stopover areas for migrating shorebirds. Established to preserve sensitive coastal wetlands and estuarine ecosystems, the park demonstrates Oregon's commitment to protecting diverse coastal habitats beyond just beaches and headlands.

The estuary and wetlands support remarkable bird diversity, with over 100 species recorded including migratory shorebirds, waterfowl, herons, and songbirds. Great blue herons, great egrets, and green herons wade in shallow waters hunting fish and invertebrates. Migratory shorebirds including dunlins, sandpipers, and plovers feed on mudflats exposed at low tide, building energy reserves for long-distance flights. The estuary provides habitat for juvenile salmon and steelhead, Dungeness crabs, and various fish species. Harbor seals and sea lions occasionally enter the estuary from Sand Lake. River otters hunt along channels. The wetlands attract waterfowl including mallards, teal, and buffleheads. Songbirds inhabit marsh vegetation. The estuary's productivity supports complex food webs from microscopic organisms to top predators.

Vegetation reflects tidal marsh and estuarine plant communities adapted to salt water influence. Pickleweed, sedges, rushes, and salt-tolerant grasses dominate the marsh, creating dense vegetation that provides nesting cover and food for birds. The sand spit supports European beachgrass and scattered native dune species including beach pea and American dune grass. Willows and other moisture-loving shrubs occur along freshwater channels. Algae and eelgrass in tidal channels provide food and habitat for invertebrates and fish. The plant communities change with elevation and salinity gradients, creating diverse microhabitats. Invasive species including reed canarygrass threaten native marsh vegetation in some areas. The wetland plants provide critical ecosystem services including sediment trapping, nutrient cycling, and wildlife habitat.

The landscape at Whalen Island was shaped by coastal processes including tidal action, sediment deposition, and the formation of Sand Lake estuary. The sand spit formed through longshore transport of sediment by ocean currents and waves, creating a barrier that partially encloses the estuary. Tidal channels were carved by daily tidal flows moving water in and out of the estuary. The marsh developed as fine sediments settled in protected areas during slack tides, gradually building elevation and creating substrate for vegetation. The area demonstrates dynamic coastal processes with ongoing sediment movement, channel migration, and wetland evolution. Sea level changes over thousands of years have influenced estuary configuration and extent. The estuary system continues to evolve in response to tides, storms, sediment supply, and sea level.

Clay Myers experiences Oregon's maritime climate with cool, wet winters and mild, dry summers moderated by the Pacific Ocean. Average temperatures range from 45°F in winter to 62°F in summer. Annual precipitation averages 70-80 inches, concentrated October through April. Summer frequently brings fog and cool marine air. The estuary responds to both tidal cycles, which occur twice daily, and freshwater inputs from streams that vary with precipitation. Winter storms bring high waves, strong winds, and heavy rain that influence estuary dynamics. The protected estuary location provides calmer conditions than the open ocean, making it suitable for kayaking and wildlife observation even during periods when open coast recreation is challenging.

The Oregon coast has been home to indigenous peoples for thousands of years, with coastal tribes utilizing estuaries for shellfish gathering, fishing, and hunting waterfowl. The productive wetlands provided seasonal resources including bird eggs, waterfowl, and edible plants. European and American contact increased in the 19th century with maritime exploration and fur trading. Settlement brought agricultural development, logging, and eventually tourism to coastal areas. Sand Lake and surrounding estuaries saw some development but escaped the intensive alterations that affected many Oregon estuaries. Recognition of the ecological value of coastal wetlands led to conservation efforts. Clay Myers, a prominent conservationist and Oregon Secretary of State, championed coastal protection, leading to the park being named in his honor after his death.

Clay Myers State Natural Area at Whalen Island was established to protect the estuary and wetland ecosystem while providing opportunities for nature-based recreation including kayaking and birdwatching. The designation as a State Natural Area reflects emphasis on conservation over intensive recreation. Oregon State Parks manages the property to maintain ecological values while allowing compatible public use. The park honors Clay Myers's conservation legacy and contributions to protecting Oregon's coast. Development has been minimal, with basic access and kayak launch facilities but limited infrastructure to preserve the natural character. The park serves as an excellent example of Oregon's commitment to protecting diverse coastal ecosystems including the often-overlooked estuarine and wetland habitats that provide critical wildlife habitat and ecosystem services.

The primary attractions are kayaking in the protected estuary channels and exceptional birdwatching opportunities. The calm waters are suitable for kayakers of varying skill levels, allowing exploration of tidal channels, marsh edges, and observation of wildlife from water level. Birdwatching is outstanding year-round, with migratory shorebirds in spring and fall, nesting seabirds and songbirds in summer, and wintering waterfowl. A short trail provides marsh access and viewpoints. The park offers a peaceful, natural setting for nature observation, photography, and simply enjoying the sights and sounds of a coastal estuary. Tide-dependent access means timing visits with tidal cycles enhances the experience. The proximity to Sand Lake provides additional recreation opportunities including beach access and dune exploration.

Clay Myers State Natural Area at Whalen Island is located on Whalen Island Road off Galloway Road near Sand Lake on Oregon's northern coast, approximately 20 miles southwest of Tillamook. The small park features a parking area, kayak launch, and basic trail access but minimal facilities. Day-use only with no camping, restrooms, or water, visitors should come prepared. The park is open year-round with no entrance fee. Access to the estuary is tide-dependent, with kayaking best during higher tides. Visitors should check tide tables and be aware of tidal current dangers. The nearest services are in Cloverdale and Tillamook. The park serves primarily as a kayak launch and birdwatching destination for those seeking quiet nature experiences.

Management priorities include protecting estuarine and wetland ecosystems, preserving bird nesting and feeding habitat, preventing disturbance to wildlife during sensitive periods, and maintaining water quality. The natural area emphasizes conservation, with human use managed to minimize impacts. Invasive species control targets reed canarygrass and other plants threatening native marsh vegetation. The estuary provides critical ecosystem services including fish nursery habitat, nutrient cycling, sediment trapping, and flood attenuation. Climate change impacts including sea level rise, increased storm intensity, and changes in ocean chemistry are significant concerns for coastal wetlands. Monitoring tracks bird populations, water quality, and habitat conditions. Educational efforts emphasize the ecological importance of estuaries and proper wildlife viewing etiquette including maintaining distance from nesting birds and seals.