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
Birds of the Month, AUG 2018
From Peter Colasanti, August 2018 August is the month when birding rises back out of the summer doldrums in the Petaluma Wetlands as birds that breed to the north start their southward journey to winter quarters. Fall migration is much more leisurely than spring and...
Green Heron Chicks
From Len Nelson: On the bird survey of Shollenberger of June 25th, a Green Heron nest was sited. Deb Sheppard got an image of 3 chicks in the nest and a hint of a 4th. I went back a few times to where she said it was located but failed to find it until yesterday, 7/2....
Midges surrounding turkey vulture
From Len Nelson: When I took an image of a Turkey Vulture (TV) on 6-22-18 in Ellis Creek, I only did so because it was nicely backlit on a post with its wings open. But, when I proceeded the image in PhotoShop and expanded its size, I clearly saw that the TV was...
Birding Petaluma Wetlands Through the Months: June
From Peter Colasanti: June is lovely. It's mostly spring, the days are the longest, we'll have clear skies at dawn. It's a great month to get married or go birding in other places. Sierra birding is best in June, the first two weeks are prime time to look...
Birding Petaluma Wetlands Through the Months: May 2018
From Peter Colasanti: Welcome to May, the breedingest month in the Petaluma wetlands. By May Day the early birds start hatching eggs while the late migrants are all freshly arrived and easy to find as they sing from high throne perches and assault...
Spring Feather Fest for Kids
Come join us for the 5th annual Petaluma Spring Feather Fest for Kids; a half day of birding designed for kids ages 6-12. On May 5th, at 9:00 A.M., we will go birding in teams of six kids each accompanied by experienced adult birders. We’ll observe nesting behavior...
How You Can Help Right Now
