Petaluma Wetlands Alliance
We support Shollenberger Park, Alman Marsh, Ellis Creek Wastewater Treatment property, and future wetland sites in the Petaluma River watershed. We work with local governments, environmental organizations, and other groups to educate the public about the ecology and value of wetlands.
Photography courtesy of Bob Dyer, Tim Fleming, Gerald Moore, Len Nelson, Thomas Reynolds and Ron Storey
About Petaluma Wetlands Alliance
What is PWA?
Petaluma Wetlands Alliance (PWA) was formed by a concerned group of citizens who banded together in the late 1990’s during the planning and construction of a new wastewater treatment plant in Petaluma, California. We work with schools, government agencies and environmental organizations to help preserve wetlands habitat.
What are Wetlands?
Wetlands are among the world’s most productive ecosystems, providing critical habitat for many plant and animal species. In essence, wetlands are the zones between the land and large bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, or oceans, where water tends to stand for prolonged periods of time. Swamps, marshes and bogs are all examples of wetlands.
How Can I Help?
We’re glad you asked! There are a number of ways you can support the PWA. Financial contributions are always welcome. Since we are a 501(c)(3) organization, your donation may be tax-deductible. If you like to meet and talk with people, check out our our docent program. Or, pick up a shovel and come help us remove invasive weeds as a volunteer.
Latest News
From the editors at Petaluma Wetland Alliance
Restoring Sediment Pathways
Restoring Sediment Pathways: A Resilient Landscape Vision for the Adobe Creek Baylands synthesizes science and community priorities into a nature-based approach for improving the resilience and ecological functioning of, and community and Tribal access to, the Adobe...
Volunteer Training
Petaluma Wetlands Volunteer Training The Petaluma Wetlands Alliance 2026 Volunteer Training is underway! Yesterday, January 15, 2026, the trainee group headed to Shollenberger Park to learn more about our wetlands through discussion and fieldwork. What a perfect...
PWA Supports UC Davis Research
Petaluma Wetlands Alliance Supports UC Davis Research- The Petaluma Wetlands Alliance (PWA) has taken an important step in understanding how renewable energy projects interact with local wildlife. This year, PWA contributed $1,000 to support a research initiative led...
PWA Goes to Ellis Creek
Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility On Wednesday, June 11, a group of volunteers from the Petaluma Wetlands Alliance were led on a two-hour tour of the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Facility in Petaluma. Even after 16 years of operation, Petaluma’s sewage treatment...
Will the Herons Return to Nest?
By Linda Sheppard For many years, Great Blue Herons, Great Egrets and Double Crested Cormorants have been nesting in three eucalyptus trees at the Ellis Creek Water Recycling Plant. The nesting area is not visible to the public from the Ellis Creek trails because the...
Interactive Wetlands Education
By Gail Abrams Interactive Wetlands Education The PWA Cornerstone Program Did you know that most of our grants and contributions express a desire to support our 3rd Grade Wetlands Education Program? It is really through these early habitat experiences that nature...
How You Can Help Right Now
Join PWA
Get the Petaluma Wetlands Alliance quarterly newsletter sent directly to your inbox. Learn about our wetlands, keep abreast of the latest news, and find out about upcoming events
Volunteer
All of our members are volunteers, working together to preserve Petaluma’s public wetlands. Without your help, all of the gains of the last few years could disappear.
Donate
Your generous financial contribution provides critical support for our mission, including our work educating children about the value of our wetlands. Donate now with PayPal.
