Education and training

We develop training to build skills and best practices to support local shoreline planners, wetland specialists, habitat biologists, and other resource managers. This training helps educate those who make decisions about the local environment.

When local land-use experts are better equipped, they can help communities avoid risks from natural hazards and help prevent resource damage. We prefer to empower citizens and governments through education and technical assistance over enforcing a violation after natural resources have already been damaged.


Coastal Training Program

Padilla Bay's Coastal Training Program is a nationally-recognized professional training offering about 25 training workshops a year to more than 600 shoreline planners and other coastal-resource managers and professionals statewide.

Many of the "hands-on" technical classes are taught by our staff to help stakeholders understand guidance, regulations, and science. This training, with more than 30 course offerings, supports various core elements of our mission. Courses include environmental negotiations and courses applicable to both Eastern and Western Washington.

Wetland education and training resources

We provide technical assistance and develop tools for the management, regulation, and stewardship of wetlands. Find wetland training, tools, and resources for local governments, consultants, developers, and landowners.

Shoreline and Coastal Planners Group

The Washington Shoreline and Coastal Planners group is an educational group of coastal planners working for the local and tribal governments, conservation districts, state and federal agencies, non-profit entities, and private consultants.

BEACH Program

From Memorial Day through Labor Day, our BEACH Program monitors the safety of saltwater swimming beaches in Puget Sound and the outer coast. Check your swimming beach for closures and advisories with our map-based application. Learn about bacteria levels at tested beaches and how to keep your favorite beach clean.

Education programs at Padilla Bay

The Padilla Bay Reserve offers a variety of educational programs for school groups, children, families, and adults. Our interpretive center features interactive exhibits, saltwater aquariums, and classrooms for learning about the Salish Sea and our unique estuary. Our educators are ready to share their love of the bay and their excitement about hands-on learning.

SEPA workshops and trainings

We coordinate with other agencies to provide trainings and presentations related to the SEPA review process. The basic full-day training includes SEPA overview and background, exemptions, threshold determination, and more.