Elkhorn Slough Foundation (ESF) has received $3.95 million in federal stimulus funds to support the Parsons Slough Project, a collaborative effort to preserve tidal marshes and other estuarine habitats in Elkhorn Slough. The Restoration Center of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, a bureau of the Department of Commerce awarded the funding. Elkhorn Slough's proposal was one of only 50 out of 841 proposals nationwide to receive funding. The Tidal Wetlands Project team led the planning effort that developed the project and secured the funding.

The Elkhorn Slough Tidal Wetland Project is a collaborative effort led by the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve in partnership with the Elkhorn Slough Foundation, the California Department of Fish and Game, and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

This two-year funding will support the restoration of the Parsons Slough's historic tidal range, which will help rebalance the ecologic processes that sustain wetland habitats. A sill, a tidal barrier similar to an underwater retaining wall, will be installed at the entrance to Parsons Slough. This structure, which will be several feet under water, will slow the movement of water in and out of the slough each day. It will reduce bank erosion, improving salt marsh survival throughout Elkhorn Slough. It should also retain freshwater runoff by reducing the tidal mixing, and retain fine mud, which can protect the coastal aquifer from seawater intrusion.

More about the funding and the project
Media coverage
More about the Tidal Wetlands Project

Hiking
The Reserve offers five miles of trails meandering through diverse wetland habitats. Escape from your busy, noisy everyday life and take a relaxing short stroll around the Five Fingers Loop or a longer trek to Hummingbird Island. Watch for leopard sharks as you pass by South Marsh. Observe owl nesting sites in the diary barn. You're sure to spot a wide variety of wildlife along the way. Walk the trails on your own or, to learn from an expert, take a docent-led tour. Tours are offered free of charge on Saturday and Sunday at 10am and 1pm. Tip: For an up-close and personal view of animals and landscapes, borrow a pair of binoculars from the Visitors Center.

Kayaking
Elkhorn Slough extends nearly seven miles inland from Moss Landing Harbor, making it an excellent spot to kayak. There are two launch sites-- at Moss Landing Harbor District Launch Ramp at the mouth of the slough and at Kirby Park on the east side of the slough. Bring your own kayak or rent from Kayak Connection or Monterey Bay Kayaks in Moss Landing. Kayakers commonly encounter otters, diverse bird species, and more. Tip: Elkhorn Slough Foundation members receive a 15% discount on kayak rentals at Kayak Connection (you'll need your ESF membership card to receive the discount).

Picnicking
Here's an alternative to yet another lunch in front of the TV. Pack a picnic and enjoy fresh air dining with a magnificent view of the slough. The Reserve has several picnic tables for public use. It's fun for the whole family. Tip: Stop by one of the farm stands along Route 1 and pick up fresh fruit and vegetables to accompany your lunch.

Photography
Visitors are awed and inspired by the slough's beauty. Grab your camera and capture the unique landscapes or abundant wildlife. Top slough destinations for photographers include the Reserve and Kirby Park. Tip: Enter your photos in our "Your Best Shot" monthly photo contest. The winning photo is featured prominently on our website.

Birding
Elkhorn Slough supports 346 diverse species of resident and migratory birds. On a recent ESF member birding walk, participants spotted more than three dozen species in a short time frame. It's no surprise that the slough is recognized as a globally important birding area. Keep track of your sightings by downloading a bird sightings list from our website. Tip: An expert birder leads a free early morning birding walk at 8:30am on the first Saturday of each month at the Reserve.

And, don't forget to stop at the store in the Visitor Center. Members receive a 10% discount on all purchases. Proceeds support the Reserve.

The State of California has put a hold on all contract services due to the current budget concerns. As a result the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve is without a cleaning crew for the Reserve offices, visitor center, and labs. We are now in need of a few basic supplies and are willing to accept donations of:

*Vacuum cleaner - (gently used would be fine)
*Broom and dust pans
*Static dusters
*GREEN cleaning supplies (sponges, multi-use cleaners, etc)
*Toilet paper

If you would like to donate any of these items please bring them to the Reserve's Visitor Center during open hours - Wed - Sun 9 to 5. We appreciate the help. Thank you.