Wonders of the Salish Sea 2026

The Salish Sea is one of the largest inland seas in the world. Discover the wonders of this uniquely biodiverse, yet fragile, ecosystem with the guidance of scientists, naturalists, and environmentalists. The 4 week program is designed to foster a deep connection to the Salish Sea that, for many of us, is our home. Learners of all knowledge levels are welcome. The program is geared toward adults and youth.

REGISTER HERE!
The complete 2026 schedule is posted on our Blog Page.

The WSS 2026 host organization is Georgia Strait Alliance. Grounded in environmental justice, Georgia Strait Alliance (GSA) mobilizes and supports collective action for the protection of a Salish Sea teeming with life, where thriving and just communities live in balance with the environment.

The WSS 2026 partner organization is the Salish Sea Institute at Western Washington University. The Salish Sea Institute (SSI) was created to raise awareness and support the conservation of the Salish Sea. Through this work, SSI fosters meaningful connections across borders, disciplines, and systems to advance a healthy and just future for the Salish Sea.

Many thanks to GSA and SSI for their support!

Did you know that well over 200 people from both parts of this bi-national ecosystem—and beyond—join in every year!

Recordings of the presentations for 2022, 2023, 2024 & 2025 can be viewed here.

The 2026 poster photo was taken by Joan Lopez on October 7, 2021 in Georgia Strait, facing south, with Orcas Island in the background. The whale is a female known as BCZ0410, Anvil, named for a mark resembling a hammer and an anvil on the underside of her fluke. She would have been pregnant with her first known calf when the photo was taken. She had a calf in 2022 and 2024. Anvil is frequently observed throughout the Salish Sea during the feeding season. Many thanks to Joan for sharing this beautiful photo!

Questions? Comments? You can reach us at salish.wonders@gmail.com

Wonders of the Salish Sea takes place on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Coast Salish peoples. 

Study nature, love nature, stay close to nature. It will never fail you.
Frank Lloyd Wright

Photos courtesy of Susan Banjavich and Heather Wardle