Communities and the
Living Ocean
Coastal Communities and the Living Ocean
From Astoria to Gold Beach, coastal communities are connected with the ocean through history and livelihood. We have studied this connection and use the knowledge gained to help make the coast a better place to live.
The CRA Coastal Program works with a strong coalition of coastal conservation organizations with a focus on Oregon’s Marine Reserve program and coastal climate change impacts. At the CRA we explore two main issues: marine conservation and the impacts of climate change on coastal communities and environments. Our Coastal Program is headed up by Jim Carlson. Email him at jim.netarts@gmail.com to learn more and to get involved.
Stay connected through our Ocean News email digest and learn more about our Coastal Programs in the sections below.


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Oregon Coast Ocean News
A monthly email digest of the most important Oregon focused climate & ocean stories. This newsletter also features local events and updates from Oregon’s Marine Reserve program. Concise & relevant – don’t miss an issue.

The Ocean & Climate
Because of Climate Change, today the Oregon Coast is experiencing dramatic changes to our nearshore ocean environments and coast. These changes include rising sea level, hypoxic nearshore ocean waters, seasonal temperature changes, more acidic ocean waters, and changes in forest cover. We observe these changes everyday and prepare for the acceleration of these impacts on our communities, fisheries, wildlife, and coastal environments. Learn more about CRA’s Ocean’s & Climate work and how to get involved.

Ocean Science & Conservation
CRA works with a strong coalition of coastal conservation organizations working on Oregon’s Marine Reserve program. Learn about the Marine Reserve program and the important research and conservation being done on the Oregon Coast.

2008 Coastal Economy and Environment Report by the Coast Range Association
“This paper reports on the first phase of an economic analysis linking marine and marine influenced ecological conditions to the general coastal economy by exploring those ecosystem services that connect economy and ecology. We present the general concept of ecosystem services and discuss qualitatively their contribution to the coastal economy of Oregon. Specifically, we provide the background ecological economics framework in which the role of ecosystem services is assessed in their support of the coastal economy.”
Read the Most Recent Ocean News:
Oregon Coast Ocean News – New stunning videos of Cape Lookout and Cape Foulweather
It’s spring and there are many exciting educational events, trainings and action items for folks to support on the coast! CRA’s Ocean News is your curated source for all things conservation and climate on the Oregon Coast.
In March, the Coast Range Association partnered up with the Audubon Society of Lincoln City (ASLC) to produce two videos for their proposed Marine Conservation Area (MCA) designations for Cape Foulweather and Cape Lookout. Watch and learn more about these two beautiful sites ASLC submitted for addition to the Rocky Habitat Management Strategy inventory of rocky habitats.
Read MoreOregon Coast Ocean News – New Year Opportunities
All of us at the Coast Range Association appreciate the important advocacy work many individuals and organizations conduct along the length of the coast. Despite the hardships, 2020 was a strong year for coastal and nearshore conservation. But much work remains.
With nearshore rocky habitat planning and protection, continued opposition to the Jordan Cove LNG export terminal and the scientific assessment and public policy analysis of restoring and protecting a healthy sea otter population in Oregon, 2021 offers exciting opportunities.
Read MoreOregon Coast Ocean News – As temperatures rise, oceans are at the forefront of climate change
All of us at the Coast Range Association send our well wishes as we move through the anticipation of the final months of 2020. This year has been unprecedented in many ways, but we continue to fight for action on climate change, working to ensure our communities and the Oregon Coast are prepared during these times of change. We ask that you forward this newsletter to your friends and family across Oregon. With your help we can build informed and engaged communities that act on behalf of our coast!
Read MoreSignup for Ocean News
A monthly email digest of the most important Oregon focused climate & ocean stories. This newsletter also features local events and updates from Oregon’s Marine Reserve Program. Concise & relevant – don’t miss an issue.
Future generations depend on the action you take today

Donate
Consider making a generous donation today for advocacy, research and education from a perspective no other organization provides. Support the Coast Range Association’s Communities and the Living Ocean Program.