By Romy Carver; Photos & Video by Don Backman
Jim Mundell had a dream. The Netarts native sailed the world as a Merchant Marine, then retired back home in his beloved Netarts. He was a naturalist who believed in raising awareness, providing learning opportunities, and encouraging stewardship for Netarts Bay.
In 2000, he began the development of what would become Netarts Bay WEBS (Watershed, Estuary, Beach, and Sea). In 2006, he passed away, On October 17, 2006, weeks after his passing, Jim’s dream came true. WEBS became an official non-profit.
On Saturday, September 26, a crowd celebrated the legacy of Jim Mundell, and the 20th Anniversary of WEBS, in a sunny tent outside at The Bunker Grille in Idaville.
Jim’s legacy was the inspiration behind the event, with a video honoring his work, and emotional tributes by several people.
WEBS has a presence in Tillamook School District, has plans to expand to other districts, and now has nine core youth education programs. And it’s not just about the kids. WEBS has over 40 free community education stewardship classes, creating a multi-generational impact and ensuring the work continues for generations.
WEBS worked with a researcher who developed ways to harvest and use the invasive green crabs, and are partnering with the Schooner Restaurant to develop new food products from them. They have developed a partnership with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife which will result in Netarts Bay joining the phytoplankton monitoring program along the coast, being the only bay.
The 20th anniversary of WEBS coincides with the 10th anniversary of Executive Director, Chrissy Smith, who was honored at the event. She expressed deep gratitude for the community support that has sustained their efforts. And the community showed up. Organizers had hoped for about 75 people but double that number attended.
Longtime volunteer and retiring board member Clair Thomas was also honored at the event, which included live music, a silent auction, food, and activity tables with a variety of educational and fun activities.
Sponsors included Hampton Lumber, Tillamook Coast Oregon, Jacobsen Salt Company, Tillamook Anglers, Fibre Federal Credit Union, Berkshire Hathaway Real Estate, Tillamook County Creamery Association, and Pastega Family Trust.
To learn about WEBS events and volunteer opportunities, visit the events page: www.netartsbaywebs.org/events. Sign up for the WEBS newsletter here: https://netartsbaywebs.app.neoncrm.com/forms/volunteerinterest
