Join Dr. Steve Webster and Mark Silberstein for a once-in-a-lifetime cruise to the enchanting Galapagos Islands. These seasoned naturalists will explore with you the life that inspired Charles Darwin to conceive the theory of evolution, transforming our understanding of how the world works. The trip is scheduled for July 13 - 23rd , 2009, and will be on board the Coral II. The cruise is limited to 18 passengers with modern and comfortable accommodations.

This year is an auspicious time to tour these rugged equatorial Islands: The 200th anniversary of Darwin's birth, the 150th anniversary of the publication of his book; the Origin of Species and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Darwin Research Station on the Galapagos.

We will snorkel with penguins, come face to face with the giant Galapagos Tortoises and see remarkable land and seascapes. Betchart Expeditions is arranging this expedition. They pioneered natural history tours to the Galapagos four decades ago and have crafted a superb itinerary.

The trip leaders, Dr. Webster and Mark Silberstein have both explored the Galapagos and between the two of them, have visited and spent considerable time underwater in seas from the Arctic to the Antarctic and have circled the tropics, exploring islands and reefs. Both are authors of books on marine and coastal biology and have taught diverse audiences. Dr. Webster is one of the founders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium where he served in a variety of key roles. Mark Silberstein is a biologist and conservationist who has worked to protect and restore Elkhorn Slough, one of California's last great estuaries. Both men are students of Darwin and are enthused about celebrating his birthday with you in the Galapagos Islands. The trip has been filling fast. Join us today!

Over the past month or so the Elkhorn Slough Foundation has been in the news in several local papers. Two of the stories featured our new land acquisitions and the importance for watershed land and the Elkhorn Slough to be conserved. Another article featured our most current restoration project at our Renteria property (pictured here).

All projects funded by California state bonds were called to an abrupt halt due to the state funding crisis. This impacted the Tidal Wetlands Project and the Azevedo Pond Restoration. The Tidal Wetlands Project is a long-term study and was able to make work adjustments. However, the effect on the Azevedo Pond Restoration was more drastic. The Azevedo project is stewardship construction work that could not be stopped immediately without destroying all the work that had been done (find out more).

To move the project to a point where work could be delayed until state funding issues were resolved; the Elkhorn Slough Foundation covered $35,000 in expenses. That money is now not available for other Foundation work.

Your donation today will help us cover that unexpected, but critically spent $35,000 expense.