Elise Cope

This summer and fall, Friends of the San Juans is leading a series of shoreline restoration projects across the islands, from Shaw Island to Eastsound on Orcas. These efforts do more than meet the eye—they help revive the ecological function of our shorelines and strengthen the health of our island communities.  Thriving and balanced shoreline ... read more

During our recent Community Beach Walk in Eastsound on Orcas Island, Wolf Schmidt (Wasakalobo) joined local shoreline experts from Friends of the San Juans, Natural Systems Design, and San Juan County to explore coastal ecology, native vegetation, and habitat restoration. The event was part of our ongoing effort to connect community members with the knowledge ... read more

Speak up by July 31st! Help shape Washington’s oil spill response planning requirements and improve protections for Salish Sea wildlife, waters, and communities. Issue Overview Oil tanker traffic through the Salish Sea has surged since the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion was completed in May 2024. Washington State’s oil spill contingency plans need to be updated, ... read more

 You may have glimpsed something strange and beautiful around the San Juans: a pod of orcas twirling through the kelp, wrapping themselves in long golden fronds like playful dancers.  New research from the Center for Whale Research confirms what many Indigenous knowledge holders, islanders, and kayak guides have observed for years—Southern Resident killer whales use ... read more

 Are you looking for a meaningful, flexible way to support local environmental action this summer? Friends of the San Juans is seeking a Communications & Outreach Volunteer to join our team for a two-hour weekly shift, either in our Friday Harbor office or remotely. To help grow our community presence and impact, you’ll work directly ... read more

 Eelgrass is more than a plant. It’s a quiet, essential force holding our marine ecosystem together. Let’s protect it, together. At our recent Spring Open House, community members engaged with eelgrass in a whole new way through virtual reality, hands-on art, and powerful storytelling. We’re working to bring the power of eelgrass into view, not just ... read more

  San Juan Island Eco Club students and Friends of the San Juans celebrate a major policy victory in Olympia  Washington’s new Recycling Reform Act is now law, thanks in part to powerful student advocacy from San Juan County. Executive Director Eva Schulte of Friends of the San Juans was honored to represent Friends and ... read more

Friends of the San Juans is powered by people who care deeply about protecting the islands we all love. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just getting to know our work, volunteering is a powerful way to take action and connect with your community. There are many opportunities to get involved behind the scenes and ... read more

Stephanie Solien lives on Orcas Island and loves spending time on and near the water, beaches, wetlands and forests of the Salish Sea. She is passionate about working with diverse communities and the political process to drive positive change. She co-chaired Governor Inslee’s Southern Resident Orca Whale Task Force and was Vice Chair of the ... read more