Act
Harbor WildWatch
Learn how this grassroots organization began back in 2004 and how we got to where we are today. Harbor WildWatch was founded in 2004 by a Gig Harbor resident (Dee Dee Holser) who wanted to introduce the public to the wonders of the Puget Sound. Beginning with a few “touch-tank” events at the city pier, visitors were given the chance to see moon snails, sea stars, and nudibranchs up close and personal – while knowledgeable volunteers answered their questions and provided tips for improved stewardship practices. Community support for these fun, family-friendly events inspired the development of educational resources about the local marine life. This included a series of interpretive natural history signs placed in Gig Harbor and Key Peninsula parks and the publication of a natural history reference guide entitled Puget Sound’s Wildside. By 2009, additional programs were developed to focus on educating local youth to include a series of classroom workshops and a junior naturalist training program. In 2012, HWW’s first Executive Director was hired followed by the transition of three, part-time contractors to full-time staff positions. 2013 brought even more program expansion, including the debut of community science, internships, and new opportunities for disadvantaged youth.Browse all performers