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
Bird Resources from Press Democrat
SOUNDSCAPE ECOLOGY Wild Sanctuary Bernie Krause’s website of nature recordings and soundscapes, books, and information Website: wildsanctuary.com BIRD RESOURCES Daniel Edelstein’s WarblerWatch Tips for birding-by-ear, tours and classes Website:...
Upcoming Bird Events from Press Democrat
UPCOMING BIRD EVENTS Songbirds of Spring When: 8-10:30 a.m. Sunday, April 23 Where: Glen Oaks Ranch, Sonoma Land Trust outing Information: Learn how to identify birds by their songs and use your binoculars to get close-up views. Website:...
Recent Bird Photos by Deb Sheppard
From Deb Sheppard, visit to Shollenberger Park, April 14th: Like many of our birds at Shollenberger, the Eared Grebes are coming into their breeding plumage! During breeding season they display their golden plumes that give them their name Eared Grebe. The...
Common Gallinule
THE COMMON GALLINULE When I started "birding" about 20 years ago at Shollenberger, we called this species the "Common Moorhen". It was renamed the "Common Gallinule in 2011 by the American Ornithologists' Union. It is termed the most commonly seen rail species in...
2017 Feather Fest for Kids
We had 26 kids participating in this year's Feather Fest held at Shollenberger Park under very pleasant conditions. To sum up the day, I've added Peter Colasanti's NBB post: Hi All, The Feather Fest is a spring bird outing for young birders held in the Petaluma...
California alligator lizard
Photos from Urszula Dziri. Text by Pam Williams, John Shribbs, and Dave Barry. Urszula recently spotted a California alligator lizard at Ellis Creek. It was missing its tail, which is common. Pam and John did some research to identify it. Dave Barry stepped up with a...
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.
