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Beach Combing 101
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Unless you are a seasoned beachcomber you are in for for a little surprise when you discover that beach combing is serious business in some parts of the world. In London, you have to have a license to dig on the beach and the cost of the license is based on how far you want to dig. You cannot even apply for that license unless you have completed two years of beach combing and logging your treasures with the Museum of London . After two years, you can become a licensed mudlark. Only mudlarks eligible to do a proper dig on the shores of the Thames can become a member of the Society of London Mudlarks.
My research shows that there are no beach combing restrictions in Vancouver. There is 18 km of beaches open to the public here in Vancouver thanks to the foresight of the Parks Commissioners Office that bought up ocean front property for public use. I'm going beach combing prepared to find driftwood, sea glass, shells and any interesting articles that the sea decides to share. Winter is supposed to be a great time to scan the beach after a storm and at low tide.
It is a good thing that I am doing my homework before rushing willy-nilly into the sea. One needs to prepare for slippery surfaces and possible radioactive waste. I think that involves not picking up garbage but if I see any plastic it would be hard to resist the need to remove it before an otter chokes on or is strangled by a floating piece of plastic packaging.
Just the thought of a rogue wave has me concerned. It may be best to beachcomb with some company keeping a keen eye out for a tsunami-like wave. The tides must be anticipated and it is a must that you acquaint yourself with your local tide tables.
I want to investigate tidal pools and take pictures of my findings so a good digital camera is a necessity. Not every treasure is a good find. It would be wise to thoroughly investigate any item that you find before bringing it home. Some items come with occupants. Have you ever seen those videos of sea creatures squeezing themselves into the tiniest shells? Scary! This kind of surprise would not be good for me or the occupant. Say "Cheese"!
A successful search will require the proper gear and knowledge so as I learn more I will update the items on this list. The perfect list is always evolving. I'm a newbie so I'm taking my beach pail and plastic shovel, too. I wonder if there is a Vancouver chapter of Mudlarks.