Protecting Our Wetlands
Preserving our futureDedicated to the stewardship, restoration, and expansion of wetlands and associated wildlife habitats by preserving our future through classroom and field education that inspires youngsters to become stewards of our wetlands.
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
Double-crested Cormorant
Photos and story by Len Nelson It is very rare to see a Double-crested Cormorant looking straight at you to appreciate why they are so named. A local bird that has an active colony nesting site in the trees on the far east side of Ellis Creek that is not in the...
Donation to COTS
We held a funding campaign for COTS Outreach a couple months ago and this week John Shribbs, President of PWA, delivered a $1400 check to Jeff Schuller, Outreach Coordinator. Also at the presentation were John Richards, Jerry and Anne Taylor with Len Nelson taking the...
2 Owls Now in our Eucalyptus Tree Owl Box at Ellis Creek WRF
We cleaned out all the owl boxes at the ECWRF just last month and the large Eucalyptus tree box is now occupied with two barn owls.
From Our Editors at Facebook
Petaluma Wetlands Alliance
Providing education in and stewardship of Petaluma's public wetlands: Shollenberger Park, Alman Marsh and Ellis Creek.
PETALUMA WETLANDS ALLIANCE BIRD WALKS UNTIL OCTOBER 2026
Celebrate the season with the final Petaluma Wetlands Alliance bird walks of Spring 2026. Get out and enjoy our beautiful wetlands with PWA Docents leading Saturday Bird and Nature Walks on the 2nd and 4th Saturdays of the month from October through June, 9–11 am. No reservations required. Meet in the respective parking lots to begin the walk.
• June 13 — Shollenberger Park
• June 27 — Ellis Creek Wetlands
Yesterday, I visited Shollenberger to monitor a nesting killdeer and was surprised to find she had a brand new chick and at least one egg.
So exciting!
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Bird count 5/28/26 shollenberger park
1. Killdeer with chick
2. American avocets
3. American white pelicans
4. Song sparrow
5. Red wing blackbird
6. Snowy egret
7. Great egret
8. Mallard
9. Northern shoveler
10. Mute swans
11. Tree swallows
12. Western gull
Insect Discovery Lab
Hosted by Petaluma Wetlands Alliance
May 16, 10–11 a.m.
Shollenberger Park
Gathering Circle
FREE Hands-on nature program for K–12 children and a parent with educators from SaveNature.org, exploring insects and other arthropods of wetlands and beyond. Space limited to 25 children. RSVP REQUIRED at petalumamuseum.com/events
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.
