Welcome Developments

When the pandemic compelled the closure of many public lands, including those of the Elkhorn Slough Reserve, our colleagues at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife began long-awaited improvements to Reserve facilities for the enjoyment and safety of visitors, as well as for the health of the surrounding habitat.

When you return, the first change you’ll see is the new approach and parking area. The new design allows schoolchildren and groups to safely board and disembark from their buses at a loading zone near the Visitor Center, without needing to cross traffic in the parking lot. In addition to improving safety, the design frees space by parking empty buses in a designated lot away from more convenient spots.

The new parking areas feature permeable materials that collect and naturally filter rainwater for our beautiful native landscaping, as well as for the plants and wildlife in the Visitor Center pond.

Among other changes you may notice are new staging areas and pathways — adorned with imprints of native plants and paw prints — a covered outdoor learning area, and a new outdoor amphitheater, for hosting programs and events for students and visitors. While the Reserve was closed, aging roofing was replaced and other features of the Reserve’s existing buildings improved. Still more enhancements are in the works, including a multimedia kiosk that will share the history of the Elkhorn Slough and its surrounding lands. Our hats are off to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for the transformative work at the Reserve.

So much has changed in the past few months, and we all appreciate your patience and support as we work together to enhance your experience at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve. We look forward to welcoming you back!