Nearshore Ecosystem and Dam Removal

The video discusses the transformation of the Nearshore ecosystem, highlighting its critical role as a bridge between upland and marine systems. It provides a habitat and refuge for various species. The speaker shares personal experiences and observations over 21 years, noting the impact of the Elwha Dam removal. This project, the largest of its kind in the nation, has liberated sediment and wood, reshaping beaches and habitats, and restoring the ecosystem.

What is the primary function of the Nearshore ecosystem?

• To act as a bridge between Upland and Marine systems

• To provide a recreational area for humans

• To serve as a fishing ground

• To be a site for industrial development

How is the Nearshore ecosystem described in terms of its environment?

• A noisy and chaotic place

• A quiet oasis in a tumultuous world

• A barren and lifeless area

• A heavily polluted zone

How long has the speaker been involved with the Nearshore?

• 30 years

• 21 years

• 10 years

• 5 years

Which species are mentioned as being federally listed as endangered?

• Eagles, hawks, owls

• Dolphins, whales, sea turtles

• Shinook salmon, coo, steelhead, chum, bull trout

• Bears, wolves, foxes

What is one of the main purposes of removing the Elwha dams?

• To create more recreational areas

• To improve fish passage and liberate wood and sediment

• To build new infrastructure

• To increase water supply for agriculture

What are the liberated elements from the dam removal that contribute to the Nearshore?

• Oil and gas

• Metal and plastic

• Wood and sediment

• Water and air

How much sediment was trapped by the dams before their removal?

• Equivalent to one stadium full

• Equivalent to eight stadiums full

• Equivalent to twenty stadiums full

• Equivalent to fifty stadiums full

What is the significance of the Elwha dam removal project?

• It is a routine maintenance project

• It is a project to build new dams

• It is the smallest dam removal in the nation

• It is the largest dam removal in the nation and the first of its kind

What was the unexpected outcome of the dam removal?

• The fish population decreased

• The dams were rebuilt

• The Nearshore became the poster child for the project

• The ecosystem was destroyed

What is the expected result of the ecosystem after the dam removal?

• It will deteriorate further

• It will remain unchanged

• It will be restored

• It will become a desert