Coast Lines

Oregon is on the crest of a wave, a movement to capture energy from the sea. In fact, a 2004 study found that Reedsport was the best site in the whole nation for developing a wave energy test center. At Oregon State University, engineers have been investigating this technology for some time now, and their bright yellow test buoy, the SeaBeav, has been out collecting data in ocean waters.

After reading Jessica McElfresh's excellent story, you'll have a better understanding of how the technology works. It's exciting to think that we could power our homes and businesses with the awesome energy of the ocean. But it certainly deserves a careful approach, as wave energy parks may impact fishing and crabbing grounds that are essential to our coastal communities. Be sure to look for our follow-up story in the next issue, where we'll talk to the folks in Reedsport and get a close-up look at how a wave energy park could impact their community's economy.

Wave power was also responsible for the shipwreck, as well as the recent resurfacing, of the George L. Olson, which was uncovered by this winter's raging storms. Read Bob Schwemmer's story to get a first-hand account of how the wreck was identified. It's detective work at its best!

On a more playful note, you're sure to enjoy Paul Pintarich's great story on Rockaway Beach, a haven for vacationers for more than 100 years, and Judy Fleagle's story on sandcastle festivals, where you can try your hand at building an ephemeral masterpiece or just admire the work of others. And last but not least, we wanted to bring you up to date on our littlest editor, Genevieve Jackson. As you can see from the photos, she's really learning the ropes around here.

For a no-risk trial copy of our current issue, Click Here. If you like it, you will receive a full year (five more issues) for just $19.95, our special, introductory Internet rate -- a savings of $2.00 off the newsstand price!