Protecting Our Wetlands
Preserving our futurePetaluma 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
Monthly Bird Survey at Ellis Creek: January 2019
Hi! We’re Miles and Teresa Tuffli of I’m Birding Right Now. Last year, we began volunteering for the PWA’s bird surveys. It’s been so much fun that we decided to document them. Below is the second of these installments. If you missed the first, you can read our...
Monthly Bird Survey at Shollenberger: December 2018
Hi! We're Miles and Teresa Tuffli of I'm Birding Right Now. Last year, we began volunteering for the PWA's bird surveys. It's been so much fun that we decided to document them. Below is the first of these installments. We'll keep you up to date with an in-the-field...
Great Blue Heron
Len Nelson sent me recent pictures of a Great Blue Heron preparing and then launching into flight. See series of pics below. Enjoying the Scenery. Get Ready. Preparing. Spread Wings. One last stretch. Thinking about it some more. Where to go next? Waiting for the...
Fall Petaluma River Cleanup
The Friends of the Petaluma River is conducting a Petaluma River cleanup on September 15th. Please see their website for details. friendsofthepetalumariver.org/events/#petalumarivercleanup
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....