Protecting Our Wetlands

Preserving our future

Dedicated 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,Ā  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

Fence Building

What is PWA?

Petaluma Wetlands Alliance (PWA) was formed by a concerned group of citizens who banded together in the late 1990ā€™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.

Song sparrow in wetlands

What are Wetlands?

Wetlands are among the worldā€™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.

Cleanup crew working in wetlands

How Can I Help?

Weā€™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

Upcoming Bird Events from Press Democrat

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:...

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Recent Bird Photos by Deb Sheppard

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...

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Common Gallinule

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...

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How You Can Help Right Now

Black-necked stilt wading in blue water

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 Petalumaā€™s public wetlands. Without your help, all of the gains of the last few years could disappear.

Closeup of muddy boots
Hummingbird gathering nectar

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.

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