Protecting Our Wetlands
Preserving our futureDedicated 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, 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
Secrets of Oak Woodlands
Welcome to The Reading Nook! by David SandriJune, 2023 Hello and welcome to this month’s The Reading Nook – a monthly book review from our library, along with newsworthy items to do with nature. Let’s get right to the book – Spotlight Book of the Month – Secrets of...
River Cleanup Success for Earth Day
Clark, Michael, Joanne and I met at Shollenberger Park at 9 am and went to the South trail near the river to start trash pickup where the prior cleanup left off. We made it to the river side trail where a lot of plastic stuff and other trash piled up on the high...
The Reading Nook, May 2023
Article by David Sandri, PWA Librarian* May 2023 Hello and welcome to the first post for The Reading Nook – a monthly book review from our library, along with newsworthy items to do with nature. Let’s dive right in (like a diving duck!) to our first book – Spotlight...
From Our Editors at Facebook
Petaluma Wetlands Alliance
Providing education in and stewardship of Petaluma's public wetlands: Shollenberger Park, Alman Marsh and Ellis Creek.
Yesterday, I visited Shollenberger to monitor a nesting killdeer and was surprised to find she had a brand new chick and at least one egg.
So exciting!
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Bird count 5/28/26 shollenberger park
1. Killdeer with chick
2. American avocets
3. American white pelicans
4. Song sparrow
5. Red wing blackbird
6. Snowy egret
7. Great egret
8. Mallard
9. Northern shoveler
10. Mute swans
11. Tree swallows
12. Western gull
Insect Discovery Lab
Hosted by Petaluma Wetlands Alliance
May 16, 10–11 a.m.
Shollenberger Park
Gathering Circle
FREE Hands-on nature program for K–12 children and a parent with educators from SaveNature.org, exploring insects and other arthropods of wetlands and beyond. Space limited to 25 children. RSVP REQUIRED at petalumamuseum.com/events
On Earth Day, PWA members had the pleasure of visiting Point Blue Conservation Science’s Petaluma headquarters for an inspiring tour.
Thank you to Lishka Arata, Communications Manager, and Dr. Leo Salas, Quantitative Ecologist, for sharing the incredible ecological work and science-driven projects underway. Originally founded in 1965 as Point Reyes Bird Observatory, Point Blue continues to lead the way in conservation and climate science.
Our group left informed, energized, and truly inspired.
Point Blue Conservation Science
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.
