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
American Coot, Chapter 3 of Bob Dyer’s Blog
The American Coot is clearly both the American and Canadian coot by definition, the only coot around, and scientists says it hasn’t changed much in hundreds of millions of years. it is a Gruiformes, along with the rails, and Common Gallinule. Its average...
QR codes now available on Shollenberger Self-guided Tour markers
QR codes are now attached at each post of the Shollenberger Park Self-guided Tour. In addition to a scanning app, Smart phone users will need to install Dropbox (free) in order to open the pdf image. Use your smart phone to access information about Shollenberger...
Feather Fest 2017
From Peter Colasanti: On Sunday, April 15, PWA held our annual Feather Fest at Shollenberger Park. Over 20 avid junior birders attended with parents, siblings and other hangers-on in tow. Our President Al Hesla opened the affair with an explanation of our purpose and...
Miwok CA Indian Studies Class and Certificate Program
From Nora Pearl, May 2, 2017 CALIFORNIA INDIAN STUDIES PROGRAM MAPOM California Indian Studies Certificate Program in Partnership with the College of Marin and the Point Reyes National Seashore" (acronym: COMPS) Register by phoning 415-485-9305 or by...
Belted Kingfisher
Belted Kingfisher By Bob Dyer, April 2017, Chapter 2 of Bob's Birds Female Kingfisher with orange belt. The Belted Kingfisher is the only kingfisher seen in California. It is 13" long and weighs 5 oz. It has a rattling call you often hear before you see it. Like...
“The Sounds of Spring” article from Press Democrat, 4/20/2017
The sounds of spring Recordings of bird calls reveal hidden details about shifting state of native ecosystems By STEPHEN NETT FOR THE PRESS DEMOCRAT The drought has officially broken, the signs are everywhere. Lush grass carpets the hillsides, oaks are leafing...