Sound Waters University

Registration is now open for Sound Waters University 2022. SWU is a Journey of Discovery About Our Beautiful Natural World and the Salish Sea. The learning event consists of two parts:

• 13 virtual classes presented Sat, Feb 5, 8:30 am to 3:15 pm
• 4 field trips as add-ons, Sun, Feb 6

Hope in Action, the theme for Sound Waters University 2022, weaves a message of hope for the Salish Sea through education, research, and action. The symposium features distinguished environmental authors, change agents, researchers, and naturalists. Presentations and field trips deliver in-depth information about the area's wildlife and natural history to infuse registrants with hope for a flourishing Salish Sea.

Keynote speakers Lynda V. Mapes and David B. Williams are friends, colleagues and collaborators.

Lynda V. Mapes is the lead environmental reporter at the Seattle Times, covering native cultures, natural history and environmental topics. She is the recipient of numerous national and regional awards. Her latest book Orca: Shared Waters, Shared Home dives into the world of the southern resident killer whales, and reveals them as one of the most complex, intelligent societies on our planet. Lynda kicks off the day in the morning followed by morning classes.

David B. Williams is an author, naturalist, and tour guide, and he is a Curatorial Associate at the Burke Museum. His latest book, Homewaters: A Human and Natural History of Puget Sound is an exploration of the stories of this beautiful waterway. David takes an in-depth look at the history of the Sound and the interactions between people and place. His stories provide hope for further improvements to this diverse and resilient landscape. Follow him on Twitter @geologywriter. David starts off the afternoon followed by one more session.

Class topics include humpback whales, sea anemones, solitary bees, bull kelp, rockfish, cephalopods,  plus Leque Island estuary restoration, NW Indian College STEAM Education, and marine vessel impacts on orcas and other Salish Sea life.

View the schedule of the day's classes.

Register by Jan 5 to get early bird rate of $55 per person.

• Registrants will have access to video recordings of classes they missed or want to watch again.
• SWU offers a 50% Discount* for Students, Teachers, Military, Americorps with ID Number. A few full scholarships are also available to economically disadvantaged students. (*Not applicable for Field Trips.) To get the discount code, contact RegisterSWU@SoundWaterStewards.org or leave a voice message at 360-678-4401. Include your student or teacher ID and school name.

Sound Waters University is presented annually in February by Sound Water Stewards of Island County, a local non-profit organization. www.SoundWaterStewards.org