Name: Science Pub Talk: Sea Otters
Start: 2026-06-02T19:00:00-07:00
End: 2026-06-02T21:00:00-07:00
Location: McMenamins Mission Theater

Tue. June 2 | 7 pm - 9 pm
Restoring A Missing Keystone Species
With Chanel Hason, Marine Biologist, Environmental Educator, and Director of Outreach & Community Relations for the Elakha Alliance.
Tickets: https://tickets.omsi.edu/events/019de4b4-349b-e25b-318b-13176904d4fb
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 habitats.
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.
About Science Pubs:
Science Pubs are a casual lecture series located in fun venues across the region. Recommended for ages 10 and over.
$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. (https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/VP89lXDZR0a15fmbjKEHdw#/registration)
Questions? Email [email protected]
For ticketing questions, call 503.797.4000 x0