Visitor Center and Wetland Reserve Thrive Under Partnership

The Department of Fish and Game (DFG) congratulates the Elkhorn Slough Foundation (ESF) on its 30th birthday and wishes it continued success in helping protect one of California's greatest coastal wetlands.

Since 1982, DFG and ESF have worked in partnership to manage the restoration of the slough's habitats while providing public access, education and appreciation for an important estuary that is an integral part of the Monterey Bay region.

The majority of this collaborative effort is in the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve. The reserve is managed by DFG, which maintains the facility and leads the education and volunteer programs while overseeing research, stewardship and coastal training programs.

"The Elkhorn Slough Foundation represents the best of the best when it comes to protection and conservation of wetland habitats. I applaud their commitment and perseverance in helping to conserve one of California's last remaining estuaries," said Jeff Single, Regional Manager for DFG's Central Region.

ESF is dedicated to conserving and restoring the slough and its watershed. The foundation sees the watershed as a working landscape, where people, farming, industry, and nature can thrive together. The reserve's education program provides high quality science, tools, and techniques to further understanding of coastal watersheds. The visitor center explores the slough through a variety of creative exhibits, including a larger-than-life model of life in the mud.

Located near Moss Landing, the 1,700-acre reserve is the result of another partnership, one between DFG and the National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The reserve is one of 28 National Estuarine Research Reserves established nationwide as field laboratories for scientific research and estuarine education.

"We are thrilled and delighted at this acknowledgment from DFG," said Mark Silberstein, Executive Director of the ESF. "Without continued support from our partners from both the private and public sector, we would not be able to continue our efforts to protect the Elkhorn Slough environment."

The reserve features five miles of trails that meander through oak woodlands, tidal mud flats and salt marsh. It is home to hundreds of species, including sea otters, migratory birds and a variety of other terrestrial and aquatic wildlife. Additionally, the Elkhorn Slough is an important nursery for a large number of marine fish species.

To celebrate the Elkhorn Slough Foundation's 30th birthday, a celebration will take place today, November 2, at 7 p.m. at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This "Oaks to Otters" event will feature oceanographer Sylvia Earle as guest speaker. For more information about this celebration and the Elkhorn Slough Foundation, go to elkhornslough.org.