May
Saturday, May 15
Hike, Bike, and Clean!
Dumbarton Fishing Pier Parking Lot, Fremont

9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

This event aims to bring together hiking and bicycling enthusiasts. Hike, Bike, and Clean! gets participants to see different areas in the refuge while conducting a cleanup along the trail. Bicyclists may ride up to 4 miles to the Alameda Creek Trail but can stop and return at any time. Meet at the fishing pier parking lot at the end of Marshlands Road 2.5 miles past the Visitor Center. Wear a shirt with long sleeves, long pants, sturdy shoes, and a hat. Bring gloves to pick up the trash. This event is weather permitting. Reservations are strongly recommended so that we can contact you concerning a weather cancellation. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363 for more information. Led by Brian and Katrina Higgins.
Cruisin’ Towards Restoration
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

The salt ponds of the South Bay are undergoing an amazing transformation! We’ll journey by van out into this unique landscape to discover the rebirth of the Bay’s edge through wetlands restoration. Recommended for ages 12 and over. Space is very limited. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call Jennifer at 408-262-5513 ext. 106.
Bike the Levees
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Join Ed Kantack for an easy 5.5 mile bike ride along the levees. Get a glimpse of Drawbridge and see a variety of our spring and summer birds. Helmets are required and knobby tires are recommended. Open to all ages. Parental discretion is advised. Space is limited so please call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont

7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night descends. Meet at the Visitor Center. Not suitable for young children. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik.

Sunday, May 16
Return of the Swallows
Visitor Center, Fremont

2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Join Roy Sasai and Art Garibaldi to view the cliff swallows and their nests by the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. Meet at the Visitor Center for a short presentation before taking a ride in the van to the site. Learn about this species natural history, their habits, and unusual homes. Space is extremely limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

Friday, May 21
*Night Sky Party!
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Meet the stars of Spring! Join amateur astronomer Bob Havner and some friends as we learn about constellations. Make a star chart and then venture outside to view the night sky through a telescope. Afterwards, warm up with some hot chocolate. Bring your own binoculars or spotting scopes if you have them. Dress warmly. Fun for the whole family! Program will go on sprinkling rain or shine. Program will be canceled only if it is pouring rain. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call Debra at
408-262-5513 ext 102.

Saturday, May 22
Shoreline Trail – 8 miles Roundtrip
Dumbarton Fishing Pier Parking Lot, Fremont

8:30 a.m.

Meet new people while getting fit and healthy! This is the third walk featured in the Refuge Rambler club. This trail near the Dumbarton Fishing Pier is eight miles roundtrip, flat, and level. The walk is self-paced and you may turn back at anytime. Hats, water, and sunscreen are strongly recommended. You do not need to be a Refuge Rambler to join this walk. No reservations are needed. A refuge representative will be there to greet you at 8:30 a.m. Directions: See map on the back. Drive down Marshlands Rd until it ends in the parking lot.
Bike Tour on the Levees
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

The salt ponds of the South Bay are undergoing an amazing transformation! Journey by bike into this unique landscape and discover the rebirth of the Bay’s edge through wetlands restoration. Salt Ponds A16 and A17 will play a starring role in this leisurely 5.5-mile tour of the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project. Helmets are required and knobby tires strongly encouraged. Recommended for ages 8 and over. RSVP at 408-262-5513 ext.106.
Advanced Bird Photography
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Continuing where “Beginning Bird Photography” left off, this 3-hour workshop will first address aesthetics (e.g., advanced composition) and nature (animal behavior, seasons, tides). Then we will focus on photography topics (exposure, depth of field, flash, etc.). Material is geared toward SLR cameras, but much is applicable to any camera type. Lastly, we’ll take an optional stroll on the refuge to practice what we’ve learned, so bring your camera if you have one. Not suitable for children. Program led by Paul Bridges. Reservations are required. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102.

Sunday, May 30
Botany Bash
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

Can’t tell a poppy from pickleweed? Then this program is for you! We will explore the fascinating world of flowering plants, pollinators, and seeds. The gardens at the Environmental Education Center have some great examples of native landscaping. Learn how you can incorporate these ideas around your home while helping the environment. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104.

June
Saturday, June 5
*Marshlands of Dreams
Visitor Center, Fremont

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Join a refuge ranger on a 1-mile walk of the LaRiviere Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. Led by Paul Mueller.
Intro to Nature Drawing for Adults
Visitor Center, Fremont

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Learn the basics of sketching nature. We will learn how to draw with negative shapes and shadows, and how to use color and light to add dimension. We will discuss how the changing horizon lines can offer depth. There will be opportunities to practice these techniques on the trail. Paper and pencils will be provided. A hat and water bottle is recommended. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Travis Turner.

Sunday, June 6
In Search of: California Grey Fox
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Learn about the California Grey Fox, the only canine that can climb trees. What do they look like? Where do they live? What do they eat? We will share information about this fox to optimize your chances of capturing a glimpse of them. The tour begins with a 45-minute slideshow, followed by a 45-minute walk. Led by Art Garibaldi.

Saturday, June 12
Redwood Shores Trail
5 miles roundtrip
Meet in front of Marriot Towne Place Suites
Directions Below

9:00 a.m.

Meet new people while getting fit and healthy! This is the 4th walk featured in the Refuge Rambler club. This trail in Redwood Shores is flat and level. The walk is self-paced and you may turn back at any time. You do not need to be a Refuge Rambler to join this walk. No reservations are needed. Hats, water, and sunscreen are strongly recommended. A Refuge Representative will be there to greet you at 9 a.m. Directions: From northbound 101, take the Holly St/Redwood Shores Parkway exit. From southbound 101, take the Holly St/Brittan Ave exit. Head
east towards Redwood Shores Parkway. Turn right on Twin Dolphin Dr and meet at 1000 Twin Dolphin Dr, Redwood City. Meet in front of Marriot Towne Place Suites.

Sunday, June 13
*The Salt Marshes: Then and Now
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Approximately 85% of San Francisco Bay’s wetlands have disappeared over the last 200 years due to industry and development, impacting the wildlife that lived in and around them. Some of the plants and animals have made a comeback and a few have adapted to the changes. Learn a little about the history of the salt marshes and the wildlife affected by the changes. The presentation includes a slide show followed by a 45-minute walk to view a salt marsh and the remains of a salt evaporation pond. Bring binoculars, or borrow one of ours. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Gregg Aronson.

Saturday, June 19
*Family Bird Walk
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Visitor Center, Fremont

Let family walks become a shared time of nature learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal bird watching field guides, and then head out onto the trails to find those birds. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow. Recommended for children ages 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.
*Wetland Safari
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m
.
Take a 1-hour van tour around our former salt ponds. Bird life is generally more abundant on little-used portions of the trail. We will make several stops for better viewing and photography (if desired) and we’ll take a look at what is left of Drawbridge. Due to limited van seating, a second tour will begin at 11:30 a.m. if needed. Please call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.
*Salt Marsh Life at the Bottom of the Food Chain
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Let’s explore the salt marsh’s hidden habitats! Wetlands microbes are often called “the lungs of the earth” and we will explore the dynamics of microbial communities in New Chicago Marsh ponds. Join microbiologist Wayne Lanier, PhD, for a brief presentation at the Environmental
Education Center, then a microscope hike around New Chicago Marsh where we will sample and view the most ancient creatures on earth. See how they produce the oxygen we breath and take up the carbon dioxide we produce. Easy short hiking level. Ages 10 to 80 and beyond! Call Debra at 262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.
*Return of the Swallows
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Join Roy Sasai to view barn and cliff swallows at the refuge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. Meet at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride in the van to the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. You will learn about this species’ natural history, their unusual homes, and migration from South America. Space is extremely limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

Sunday, June 20
Life at the Bottom of the Food Chain
Visitor Center, Fremont

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Wetlands microbes are often called “the lungs of the earth”. Explore the dynamics of microbial communities in LaRiviere Marsh ponds. Join microbiologist Wayne Lanier, PhD, for a brief presentation in the Visitor Center; then a microscope hike to LaRiviere Marsh where we will sample and view the most ancient creatures on earth. See how they produce the oxygen we breath and take up the carbon dioxide we produce. Easy short hiking level. Ages 9 - 90 years. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363 for reservations.
*Father’s Day In The Marsh
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Give Dad the day off and take him on a relaxing vacation to the Environmental Education Center in Alviso where he can enjoy a day with the family. After a brief slideshow about the refuge, we’ll take a guided walk around the different wetland habitats searching for native plants and animals. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. All ages are welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104.
*A Taste of the Refuge
Visitor Center, Fremont

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Take a guided walk on Tidelands Trail and discover which plants are edible or have medicinal uses. We’ll taste some of these plants on the refuge, or in commercially made products. Led by Carmen Minch.

Saturday, June 26
*Advanced Bird Photography Workshop
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Continuing where “Beginning Bird Photography” left off, this three-hour workshop will address aesthetics (e.g., advanced composition) nature (animal behavior, seasons, tides), and techniques (exposure, depth of field, flash, etc.). Material is geared toward SLR cameras, but much is applicable to any camera type. Afterwards, we’ll take an optional stroll on the refuge to practice what we learned, so bring your camera if you have one. Not suitable for children. Led by Paul Bridges. Reservations are required. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102.
Nature Drawing for Kids
Visitor Center, Fremont

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Learn the basics of sketching nature in this new workshop by Travis Turner. We will learn how to draw what we see by incorporating common shapes, and learn about color value. We will then head out onto the trail and practice the various techniques. Paper and pencils will be provided. Recommended for ages 5-10. Bring a hat and water. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363.
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont

7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night descends. Not suitable for young children. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext 363. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik.

Sunday, June 27
*Return of the Swallows
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Join Roy Sasai to view barn and cliff swallows at the refuge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. Meet at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride in the van to the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. You will learn about this species’ natural history, their unusual homes, and migration from South America. Space is extremely limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

July
Saturday, July 3
*Marshlands of Dreams
Visitor Center, Fremont

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Join a refuge ranger on a 1-mile walk of the LaRiviere Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. Led by Paul Mueller.

Saturday, July 10
Community Service
Visitor Center, Fremont

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

If you are interested in improving the refuge for visitors and for wildlife alike, join us in Fremont for a community service project. We will do either a trash pickup or a planting/weeding project. Dress appropriately for the task and for the weather. Gloves and tools will be provided. Bring a water bottle. Meet in the parking lot at the Visitor Center. Driving an additional 2.5 miles may be required if project takes place at a different location. For more information, or to make reservations, call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.
Cruisin’ Towards Restoration
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

The salt ponds of the South Bay are undergoing an amazing transformation! We’ll journey by van out into this unique landscape to discover the rebirth of the Bay’s edge through wetlands restoration. Recommended for ages 12 and over. Space is limited. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call Jennifer at 408-262-5513 ext. 106.
Exploring the Weep!
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Join expert microbial ecologist Dr. Wayne Lanier on a short bike ride to study microbial communities. Pedestrians are welcome – trip to the weep site will just take a while longer. The weep is a shallow persistent pond fed by seepage. Over the year it undergoes very wide swings in salinity, and the result is a uniquely rich microbial community of Cyanobacteria, Archeabacteria, Diatoms, Dinoflagellates, and protozoa. Boots are recommended! Ages 10 and up. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102.
*Family Bird Walk
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Visitor Center, Fremont

Let family walks become a shared time of nature learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal bird watching field guides, and then head out onto the trails to find those birds. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow. Recommended for children ages 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

Sunday, July 11
Drawbridge Van Excursion
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

There’s a ghost town in the San Francisco Bay? That’s right! Nestled on an island in the salt marshes of South San Francisco Bay, the town of Drawbridge once boomed. Was it a quiet, peaceful town full of nature lovers, or a rip-roaring town full of two-fisted rowdies? Find out at this program led by Ceal Craig. Start with a slideshow, and then take a short van excursion to view Drawbridge across Coyote Creek. Program is intended for adults and space is very limited. RESERVATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. We do not visit the town itself – we go to the closest spot where one can legally view Drawbridge.
*Chompers & Stompers
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Ever wondered why birds come in so many shapes, sizes, and colors? Find out why some birds exhibit wacky behaviors. We will examine different bird specimens we have collected over the years to see how birds have adapted to some extraordinary features. Come admire the wonders of the bird kingdom and then take a guided walk to see these marvelous creatures in action. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All Ages are welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104.
*The Salt Marshes: Then and Now
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Approximately 85% of San Francisco Bay’s wetlands have disappeared over the last 200 years due to industry and development, impacting the wildlife that lived in and around them. Some of the plants and animals have made a comeback and a few have adapted to the changes. Learn a little about the history of the salt marshes and the wildlife affected by the changes. The presentation includes a slideshow followed by a 45-minute walk to view a salt marsh and the remains of a salt evaporation
pond. Bring binoculars or borrow one of ours. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Gregg Aronson.

Saturday, July 17
Water, Water, Everywhere!
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Where does the water come from and where does it go? Learn all about the water cycle and watersheds. Build your own model of a watershed and see if you can predict where the water will go! Recommended for ages 7 and up. Led by Ed Kantack. Please call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.
Intro to Nature Drawing for Adults
Visitor Center, Fremont

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Learn the basics of sketching nature. We will learn how to draw with negative shapes and shadows, and how to use color and light to add dimension. We will also talk about how the changing horizon lines can offer depth. There will be opportunities to practice these techniques on the trail. Paper and pencils will be provided. A hat and water bottle is recommended. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Travis Turner.

Sunday, July 18
*A Taste of the Refuge
Visitor Center, Fremont

11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Take a guided walk on Tidelands Trail and discover which plants are edible or have medicinal uses. We’ll taste some of these plants on the refuge, or in commercially made products. Led by Carmen Minch.
*Return of the Swallows
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Join Art Garibaldi to view barn and cliff swallows at the refuge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. Meet at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride in the van to the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. You will learn about this species’ natural history, their unusual homes, and migration from South America. Space is extremely limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

Friday, July 23
Just 4 Tots
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

If you have a tot, then this program is for you! We’ll explore the refuge and its wildlife with fun and entertaining activities geared toward the younger set. We’ll have story time, puppet time, and craft time! Suitable for ages 4-6. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.

Saturday, July 24
Mallard Slough Trail
5.5 miles roundtrip
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

9:00 a.m.

Meet new people while getting fit and healthy! This is the 5th walk featured in the Refuge Rambler club. This trail is compacted dirt, flat and level. The walk is self-paced and you may turn back at anytime. You do not need to be a Refuge Rambler to join this walk. To become a Refuge Rambler, log on to our website. No reservations are needed. Hats, water, and sunscreen are strongly recommended. Park Ranger Jennifer Heroux will be there to greet you at 9 a.m.
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont

7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night descends. Not suitable for young children. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext 363. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik.

Sunday, July 25
Marsh Mud Mania
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

What’s that wiggling and squiggling? Think that brown stuff is just mud? Think again! A living colony of organisms is at work in the mucky-muck. Discover how the smallest of creatures have the largest impact on the ecosystem. Learn how to filter a mud sample and use our microscopes to investigate the creepy crawlies of the sloughs. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All ages are welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104.
Return of the Swallows
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Join Art Garibaldi to view Barn and Cliff swallows at the Refuge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. Meet at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride in the van to the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. You will learn this species’ natural history, unusual homes, and migration from South America. Space is extremely limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

Saturday, July 31
Nature Drawing for Kids
Visitor Center, Fremont

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Learn the basics of sketching nature in this new workshop by Travis Turner. We will learn how to draw what we see by incorporating common shapes, and learn about color value. We will then head out onto the trail and practice the various techniques. Paper and pencils will be provided. Recommended for ages 5-10. Bring a hat and water. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

August
Saturday, August 7
Dawn Photography Hike
Eden Landing Ecological Reserve, Hayward

5:00 a.m.

Hidden among the salt ponds is one of the East Bay’s most intriguing historical sites. The refuge and the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project are sponsoring this photography hike to the old Oliver Salt Works within the Eden Landing Ecological Reserve. We’ll be walking into an area of the reserve not yet open to the public so please be prepared to walk several miles on unimproved levees with your equipment. Reservations required. Call 408-262-5513 ext.106
*Marshlands of Dreams
Visitor Center, Fremont

10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Join a refuge ranger on a 1- mile walk of the LaRiviere Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh restoration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farming, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. Led by Paul Mueller.
*Family Bird Walk
2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Visitor Center, Fremont

Let family walks become a shared time of nature learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal bird watching field guides, and then head out onto the trails to find those birds. A limited number of binoculars are available to borrow. Recommended for children ages 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

Sunday, August 8
*The Salt Marshes: Then and Now
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Approximately 85% of San Francisco Bay’s wetlands have disappeared over the last 200 years due to industry and development, impacting the wildlife that lived in and around them. Some of the plants and animals have made a comeback and a few have adapted to the changes. Learn a little about the history of the salt marshes and the wildlife affected by the changes. The presentation includes a slide show followed by a 45-minute walk to view a salt marsh and the remains of a salt evaporation pond. Bring binoculars, or borrow one of ours. Call 510-792- 0222 ext. 393 for reservations. Led by Gregg Aronson.

Saturday, August 14
*Mud Creatures Study
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Ever wonder what lies beneath the water and lurks about in our wetlands? Come find out! We’ll explore all the different habitats at the refuge and then focus on the tiny critters that call the mud their home. We’ll collect samples and use microscopes, just like scientists! Recommended for ages 7 and up. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.
Intro to Nature Drawing for Adults
Visitor Center, Fremont

11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Learn the basics of sketching nature. We will learn how to draw with negative shapes and shadows, and how to use color and light to add dimension. We will also talk about how the changing horizon lines can offer depth. There will be opportunities to practice these techniques on the trail. Paper and pencils will be provided. A hat and water bottle is recommended. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Travis Turner.
In Search of: Endangered California Clapper Rail
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Come learn about the endangered and rarely-seen California Clapper Rail. What do they look like? What do they eat? How many are left? When is the best time to see them? We will share information about this secretive bird to optimize your chances of capturing a glimpse of them. The tour is comprised of a 45-minute slideshow followed by a 45-minute walk. Led by Art Garibaldi.

Sunday, August 15
Barnacles, Mussels, and Snails, Oh My!
Learning Center, Fremont (near Visitor Center)

1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Join Roy Sasai to learn about the bay shore life, it’s wildlife, and local history. Meet at the Learning Center for a short presentation before taking a ride in the van to the bay shore to see the wildlife. Space is extremely limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 Ext 363.
Bird Drawing & Sketching
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Grab a pencil and some paper and join us for an introduction to drawing and sketching our feathered friends. We will go over the basic concepts of pencil drawing and use refuge specimens to take a closer look at shapes and forms to help bring your drawings to life. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – Ages 10 and up. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104.

Friday, August 20
Night Sky Party!
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.

Meet the stars of Summer! Join amateur astronomer Bob Havner as we learn about constellations. Make a star chart and then venture outside to view the night sky through a telescope. Afterwards, warm up with some hot chocolate. Bring your own binoculars or spotting scopes if you have them. Fun for the whole family! Dress warmly. Program will go on sprinkling rain or shine. Program will be canceled only if it is pouring rain. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext 102.

Saturday, August 21
Nature Drawing for Kids
Visitor Center, Fremont

10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Learn the basics of sketching nature in this new workshop by Travis Turner. We will learn how to draw what we see by incorporating common shapes, and learn about color value. We will then head out onto the trail and practice the various techniques. Paper and pencils will be provided. Recommended for ages 5-10. Bring a hat and water. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363.
Butterflies, Etc.
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Do you know the difference between butterflies, moths and skippers? Learn the difference and their life cycles. Then take a leisurely walk around our butterfly garden and see some of these beautiful insects. Suitable for ages 7 and up. Led by Ed Kantack. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 to sign up!
Twilight Marsh Walk
Visitor Center, Fremont

7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the refuge as night descends. Not suitable for young children. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222
ext. 363. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik.

Sunday, August 22
In Search of: Endangered
California Clapper Rail
Learning Center, Fremont (near Visitor Center)

2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Come learn about the endangered and rarely-seen California Clapper Rail. What do they look like? What do they eat? When is the best time to see them? We will share information about this secretive bird to optimize your chances of capturing a glimpse of them. The tour is comprised of a 45-minute slideshow followed by a 45-minute walk. Led by Art Garibaldi.

Saturday, August 28
Alviso Slough Trail – 9 mile-loop
Meet at the Alviso Marina, Alviso

8:30 a.m.

Meet new people while getting fit and healthy! This is the 6th walk featured in the Refuge Rambler club. This trail in Alviso is a 9- mile loop, flat, and level. The walk is selfpaced and you may turn back at anytime. Hats, water, and sunscreen are strongly recommended. There is no shade. You do not need to be a Refuge Rambler to join this walk. No reservations are needed. A refuge representative will be there to greet you at 8:30 a.m. Directions: From Hwy 237, exit at Lafayette/Gold St. Head north onto the Gold St. Connector and left onto Gold St. Turn left onto Elizabeth St and right onto Hope St., which leads you to the Alviso Marina. Meet in the picnic table area adjacent to the restrooms.
Bike Tour on the Levees
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

The salt ponds of the South Bay are undergoing an amazing transformation! Journey by bike out into this unique landscape and discover the rebirth of the Bay’s edge through wetlands restoration. Salt Ponds A16 and A17 will play a starring role in this leisurely 5.5-mile tour of the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project. Helmets are required and knobby tires strongly encouraged. Recommended for ages 8 and over. RSVP at 408-262-5513 ext.106.
Drawbridge Van Excursion
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

There’s a ghost town in the San Francisco Bay? That’s right! Nestled on an island in the salt marshes of South San Francisco Bay, the town of Drawbridge once boomed. Was it a quiet, peaceful town full of nature lovers, or a rip-roaring town full of two-fisted rowdies? Find out at this program led by Ceal Craig. Start with a slideshow, and then take a short van excursion to view Drawbridge across Coyote Creek. Program is intended for adults and space is very limited. RESERVATIONS ARE ESSENTIAL. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. We do not visit the town itself – we go to the closest spot where one can legally view Drawbridge.
Salt Pond Restoration 101: An
Introduction to the Project
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Restoration of 15,100 acres of South San Francisco Bay salt ponds to wetlands habitats has begun. Please join us for overview of this incredible project happening in our backyard. Program will begin indoors but will move outside via an easy 0.25-mile trail to a view of the salt ponds. All are welcome!
All About Owls
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Learn all that you’ve ever wanted to learn about owls here at the refuge! Where and what do owls eat? How do we not hear them when they flap their wings? Through an interactive presentation and owl pellet dissection, we’ll find the answers to all these questions. Paul Bridges will lead the way. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations.

Sunday, August 29
Mysteries Of Wastewater Treatment
Environmental Education Center, Alviso

1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

The San Jose-Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant treats hundreds of millions of gallons of wastewater from millions of people every day using some of the most advanced treatment technologies available. Come and learn about what it takes to make this interesting process happen through a slideshow and hands-on activities. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All Ages are welcome Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104.
Barnacles, Mussels, and Snails, Oh My!
Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center)

1:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Join Roy Sasai to learn about the bay shore life, it’s wildlife, and local history. Meet at the Learning Center for a short presentation before taking a ride in the van to the bay shore to see the wildlife. Space is extremely limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 Ext 363.

It is the policy of the Fish and Wildlife Service to accommodate individuals with disabilities. If you have questions concerning programs, or if you need accommodation to enable you to participate, please contact a visitor services staff person, either at the Visitor Center or at the Environmental Education Center.
*Trails are generally level. Surface and trail conditions vary. Please call for accessibility information.

   

Read the latest issues of the Tideline

Click here to read a message from our Board President

Read about Drawbridge. Click here to read this brochure, entitled, "Drawbridge, CA: Re-turning the Tide"

(You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the PDF). If you don't have Adobe Acrobat Reader, please click here to download a free copy
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For a complete list of our upcoming events click here.

 
 
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