Free Movie Screening Highlights Removal of Elwha Dam

“Hell-raising documentary film-making at its best.” -Sound on Sight

Wednesday, March 13, 7 – 8 p.m., Sea View Theatre

— from Justin Cox for SeaDoc Society —

Return of the River, official trailer www.elwhafilm.com from Jessica Plumb on Vimeo.

On Wednesday, March 13, head out to the Sea View Theatre on Orcas Island, where the SeaDoc Society and Camp Orkila will present a free screening of the award-winning documentary “Return of the River”—a story of hope, possibility and the removal of the Elwha Dam.

The free, family-friendly screening is part of SeaDoc’s Ocean Night series, which aims to inspire Orcas Island residents to know, connect and protect the Salish Sea. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the event runs from 7-8 p.m. The film’s creator, Jessica Plumb, will present the movie and do a short Q&A after the 50-minute movie. The concessions and bar will be open.

“Return of the River” captures the tenacity of individuals who would not give up on a river, like salmon on the long journey upstream to spawn. It is a narrative with global ramifications, exploring the complex relationship between communities and the environment that sustains them. 

The camera soars over mountain headwaters, dives into schools of salmon and captures turbines grinding to a halt as the largest dam-removal project in history begins. The film features people and perspectives on all sides of the Elwha debate, reflecting the many voices of the Elwha valley.

Ocean Night takes place on the first Wednesday every month through the Winter. The last three events have filled up, so arrive early, especially if you want concessions. This is the final Ocean Night of the season.

Sponsors: Dean and Audrey Stupke, Jim and Kathy Youngren, Barbara Brown, Barbara Bently, West Sound Marina, The Averna Family (Deer Harbor Charters), Madrona Inn Bar & Grill, Shearwater Kayak Tours, San Juan County Marine Resources Committee.