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
Bob Dyer Bench Memorial
On October 6, the Petaluma Wetlands Alliance will dedicate a bench at Shollenberger Park to honor Bob Dyer, a PWA board member and long time wetlands supporter. Bob took most of the photos on this web site and submitted regular articles to the FaceBook Page. He also...
Birding Petaluma Wetlands Through the Year : September
From Peter Colasanti, 09-17: September is the richest month for birding generally in Northern California, and that very wealth creates challenges. Populations of most species are roughly double those of the lean spring, but many are...
Chapter 5 of Bob’s Wetland History and our Birds – Great Blue Heron.
By Bob Dyer, from email sent out 9-2016 The Great Blue Heron (GBHE) is the largest heron (or egret) in North America. It varies from 45-54 inches tall. Weight depends upon location within the continent. This information is from Wikipedia. Oregon is the closest...
Rivertown Revival
The Rivertown Revival was a popular success for several thousand visitors came in a variety of steampunk outfits and costumes to ride giant sea saws, dance to music, play games, and get married for $5. We had a pretty darn good day thanks to all the docents who worked...
Miwok Lecture Sept. 18th
September 18th, Monday, 7 pm Petaluma Public Library Free “Learning from the Miwok Culture” We will explore the changing perspectives and environment of local California Indians from a Tribal point of view of historical, social, political and...
Great-tailed Grackle
Chapter 4 of Bob's Birds: Great-tailed Grackle, Quiscales mexicanus It has been named the "devil bird". From USA Today (2013): "When they arrive in flocks, they cause trouble. The Kroeger supermarket on West 43rd Street in...