Discover how to protect, enjoy and appreciate the Salish Sea and its connected environments during Sound Waters, a one-day university featuring more than 60 sessions.

Sound Waters is presented by WSU Island County Extension Beach Watchers.

Register now for the annual educational presentation, which is set for Saturday, Feb. 4, at South Whidbey High School in Langley.

Learn about tides, creatures on land, sea and air, earthquakes, alternate transportation, Native life and culture, legislation affecting environmental policy, salmon recovery, local fishing, underwater photography, kayaking and more.

Learn what you can do around your home, yard and shore to make a positive difference to the health of local waters.

Choose from 20 or more offerings for each of three sessions.

More than 44 classes are new this year and six are intermediate to advanced programs. An extensive exhibit area will be open all day.

Sound Waters offers continuing education credits for teachers and a special registration fee for students.

The program opens with an address by Dr. Joseph Gaydos, chair of Puget Sound Partnership’s science panel. He will speak on how marine science can help the Salish Sea.

“This presentation will examine the merits and limitations of science while proposing realistic options for citizens to participate in, understand and use science as we all work to improve the health of the Salish Sea,” according to a press release.

Sound Waters is the first event to earn a Whidbey Green Seal certification sponsored by Sustainable Whidbey Coalition for implementing resource conservation measures, demonstrating a culture of environmental awareness in operational activities and practicing social responsibility in the community.

Sound Waters has partnered with Island Transit to offer ride service from ferry terminals and other stops. Sound Waters is registered at www.rideshareonline.com to connect carpools.

To register, see the class schedule and get more information, go to http://beachwatchers.net/sw_2012.