Restoring A Missing Keystone Species
With Chanel Hason, Marine Biologist, Environmental Educator, and Director of Outreach & Community Relations for the Elakha Alliance.
About the Lecture
Sea otters once thrived along the Oregon coast, playing a critical role in maintaining healthy kelp forests. Their removal during the maritime fur trade left a missing link in Oregon’s nearshore ecosystem – contributing to unchecked sea urchin populations and declining kelp habitat.
In this engaging and science-based presentation, marine biologist Chanel Hason explores how sea otters function as keystone predators, the cascading ecological benefits they bring to kelp forests and estuaries, and what restoration could mean for Oregon’s biodiversity, fisheries, and coastal resilience. Attendees will gain insight into the collaborative, tribal-led efforts underway to develop a responsible reintroduction plan by the Elakha Alliance – and how restoring this iconic species could help rebalance Oregon’s underwater forests for generations to come.
Science Pubs are a casual lecture series located in fun venues across the region, recommended for ages 10 and over.
Tickets
$8 suggested donation | Advance tickets recommended
Zoom Option
If you are unable to join us in person, you can watch on Zoom. You must register in advance. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
About the Speaker
Chanel Hason is a marine biologist, environmental educator, and passionate ocean advocate serving as the Director of Outreach & Community Relations for the Elakha Alliance.
With a background that includes working with sea otters at the Monterey Bay Aquarium, conducting marine research on the Great Barrier Reef, and educating communities about the wonders of the natural world, Chanel brings science to life with energy and heart.
At Elakha, she leads public engagement efforts to support the restoration of sea otters to the Oregon coast – reviving an essential keystone species to help restore balance to nearshore ecosystems. Whether she’s giving a Science Pub talk, running a fundraiser, or tabling at community events, Chanel loves inspiring people to fall in love with sea otters and the kelp forests they call home.
Questions? Email sciencepub@omsi.edu
Ticketing questions call 503.797.4000 x0
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are unable to join us in person, you can watch on zoom. You must register in advance via the Zoom link above. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
To guarantee a seat at this event, we recommend you purchase your ticket in advance. Please show your ticket at the check-in table in front of the theater upon arrival.
We will always have tickets available at the door. They are first-come, first-served and admission will remain a suggested donation
Mission Theater offers pizza and sides, as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. No outside food or drink is allowed.
The Mission Theater is wheelchair accessible. They have a ramp leading to the theater’s side entrance on 17th Avenue; just let McMenamins staff at the front door know you need ramp access.
Street parking is available in the area surrounding the theater. Some spaces may be free, while others may require payment via Parking Kitty. Note that Parking Kitty does not require payment after 7pm.