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Avian Influenza Detected at Año Nuevo State Park

A small number of young northern elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park recently tested positive for H5N1, also known as bird flu. This is the first detection of H5N1 in California’s marine mammal population.

The risk of H5N1 to the public remains very low. We’re sharing guidance on how to protect yourself, your pets and marine mammals – and how you can help.

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Elephant seal
Trisha Brink

Trisha Brink

Associate Director of Learning & Development

As the Integrative Learning Manager, Trisha is passionate about using learning to grow communities by creating blended learning solutions that empower connection, retention and inclusion. 

Trisha has a master's degree in Education from the University of Washington and over 15 years of experience in the education technology industry. She brings a wealth of expertise as a previous learning designer with National Geographic Learning and Deloitte, as well as a former English professor at the University of Washington and Bellevue College.

A self-proclaimed “pinniped protector,” Trisha started as an educational volunteer with The Marine Mammal Center back in 2014 when she fell in love with northern fur seal patient Ziggy Star. She shares in the Center’s mission to educate the public about ocean conservation and climate change.

Trisha and her husband are avid travelers and enjoy sailing to new destinations. Her other hobbies include scuba diving, kayaking, yoga, meditation and snuggling with her two orange “Garfield-like” cats.


Areas of Expertise

  • Learning Design
  • Education Technology
  • Conservation Education