As Bay Tours Coordinator, I have the privilege, through a grant from the California Coastal Conservancy, to play host to many members of our fine community by organizing activities around Humboldt Bay. This year, although different, was very much the same, thanks to our many community partners. Photo: Our last Madaket tour of the 2021 season was for staff and artists of Canvas + Clay Studio and Gallery. Here they are enjoying a fine day on the bay. Photo by Jasmin Segura.
With guidelines for public gatherings changing seemingly by the week, keeping up with the latest was no minor feat. While concerns for the public’s physical health was top priority, we couldn’t discount everyone’s mental health. Humans are a social species, so being able to safely enjoy Humboldt Bay and each other’s company was also important.
Even the most introverted amongst us needs meaningful interaction outside our household. Armed with this knowledge (and some funding), we managed to maintain our relationships with partner groups and individuals alike – and also develop some new ones.
With local bird nerd Janelle Chojnacki, we hosted small, masked, any able-bodied strolls along different parts of the Bay. Borrowed binoculars in hand, participants learned about visiting and native feathered friends in a safe and lovely setting. The Madaket was a terrific venue for many of our partner groups to gather, learn about and simply enjoy the beautiful environment we get to call home.
If your community organization is interested in getting tour groups on bay or Coastal Trail tours, please contact us at
