Tidal Exchange N e w s l e t t e r o f t h e E l k h o r n S l o u g h F o u n d at i o n summer 2013
Doing Good
Photo by Philip Knorr.
For Today, For Tomorrow
“Walking the same trails over and over as the seasons pass and the years roll by has deepened my connection – and my appreciation – for this special place.” - John Moir, volunteer Here at Elkhorn Slough we mean it when we say we’ve got something for everyone. The slough is rich in rare habitats that make it the perfect home for species found few places on earth. The slough spans from deep-sea canyons to rare wetlands to chaparral-lined ridge tops in just seven miles. This scenic diversity draws many people here again and again. And for some, it has inspired a deep desire to be involved through volunteer efforts. There are as many opportunities to serve as a volunteer as there are trees on the hills or fish in the sea. Volunteers help in the Education Lab, Visitor Center, native plant nursery, offices, and in the field. They pick up trash, plant seedlings, and nurture children’s minds. They lead interpretive walks and gather data for researchers. They inspire us every day with their dedication. This work adds up. Volunteers helping with bird counts or water quality measurements give researchers more time to analyze data and understand the slough’s ongoing evolution. Those assisting with administrative tasks like shredding old documents or stuffing envelopes enhance our efficiency. Lending a hand pulling invasive species from the ground make the land better able to support native species like manzanita, sky lupine, and coast live oak. As ambassadors of the slough, volunteers meet interesting people while sharing the natural history and importance of this amazing place. Volunteer John Moir loves leading tours on the Reserve’s trails and connecting with each new group of visitors, seeing the slough through their eyes and through their questions. Elkhorn Slough welcomes visitors from all over the world, but it’s the repeat visitors who let us know we are successful envoys. Volunteer Aneita Radov is always delighted to see children who have visited the Reserve on school field trips return with their families to share the experience. “I love to nurture visitors’ awareness of living on this beautiful planet,” she says. continued on page 4