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
Pickleweed maintenance at Shollenberger Park
From Chelsea Thompson, City of Petaluma Public Works & Utilities Department: The Shollenberger dredge disposal site has maintenance requirements in order to be used for dredge disposal during dredge events on the Petaluma River. The Shollenberger Marsh Management,...
Birding Petaluma Wetlands Through the Months : November
From Peter Colasanti, 11-17 By early November most of the long distance migrant birds have taken the advice of their DNA and relocated to the longer and sunnier days of the neotropics. Soon to come will be those driven south by even...
Native Plants – Coyote Bush, Baccharis pilularis
Note open branching with leaves on exterior (leggy) forming a round shape. From John Shribbs, 11-17 A common native upland evergreen shrub in the aster family found in many habitats from Mexico to Washington. It is a secondary pioneer that is self-seeding in...
Birding Petaluma Wetlands Through the Year : October
From Peter Colasanti In October the migration of long distance landbirds is largely past, though some possibilities for finding vagrants remain, even in the Petaluma Wetlands. What's more noticeable is the arrival of some of our...
PWA Calendar Available at the Petaluma Visitors Center
The 2018 Petaluma Wetlands Alliance calendar is now available at the Petaluma Visitors Center. Each month on the calendar has a photo of a bird you are likely to see that month in the Shollenberger Park Wetlands. Brilliantly photographed by Bob Dyer, these photographs...
Chapter 6 of Bob’s Wildlife and Birds – Mute Swans
From Bob Dyer email 10-2016 MUTE SWAN The mention of “swans” in the mind of many adults, conjures up a mental picture, probably similar to the one above. These are the graceful creatures of fairy tales and legend. They are probably the most imaged bird in the...