GoFish

October 18, 2024

Living Islands began preparations for the much-anticipated crabbing weekend in Newport, Oregon. Guests were warmly welcomed and helped settle into their accommodations after what, for many, had been long journeys. We had begun organizing logistics for the weekend’s activities, ensuring every participant was ready to be a part of this amazing opportunity.

Part of the preparations included setting up some of the crab pots for the following day’s hands-on experience. Volunteers and staff worked tirelessly to gather last-minute materials and ensure everything was in place to make this event both enjoyable and educational.

October 19, 2024

The main event kicked off with a morning meeting. This was our opportunity to introduce attendees to one another, fostering connections among participants from diverse backgrounds who shared a love for the ocean and sustainable practices. We also provided an overview of the day’s activities and safety protocols.

The group then headed to the Newport Municipal Crabbing Pier and the beautiful Yaquina Bay for an immersive crabbing experience. With traps in hand and seasoned community members sharing invaluable insights, everyone got a chance to learn the ins and outs of crabbing. It was not just a learning experience but also a cultural exchange, where stories, techniques, and local knowledge flowed freely among participants.

After a much needed lunch break, the community reconvened for an enriching presentation from an impressive lineup of speakers. Representatives from the Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife, Oregon Sea Grant, Portland Harbor Community Coalition, the City of Portland, and Aunty Shirley De La Cruz shared their expertise on topics ranging from regulations and conservation efforts to sustainable opportunities in marine environments. This session offered a wealth of information that left attendees better informed and inspired to act as advocates & educators of the coastal ecosystem.

To round out the day, we enjoyed a communal meal—a chance to relax, mingle, and reflect on the day’s experiences. The shared meal fostered a sense of unity, emphasizing the importance of community in preserving our indigenous practices despite not being on our indigenous lands.

October 20, 2024

The weekend concluded with a final gathering, where we celebrated the success of the event and raffled off prizes. The gear raffle added a fun and competitive element, with items ranging from practical hand warmers and instant food packs to high-value prizes like machetes and commercial-grade crab pots. The excitement in the room was contagious, and everyone left with smiles and stories to share.

Before parting ways, attendees participated in a feedback session, sharing their experiences and offering suggestions to make future events even better. It was a heartfelt end to a weekend filled with learning, laughter, and new friendships.

Looking Ahead

The 2024 Crabbing Weekend was a resounding success, blending education, hands-on activity, and community engagement into a memorable experience. Living Islands is deeply grateful to all the participants, speakers, and volunteers who made this event possible. We can’t wait to see how we can build on this foundation for future events and continue fostering connections between people and the environment.