The Misunderstood Gopher Snake

Home , Chinese water snake, Feeding frenzy, Gopher (protocol)

SUMMER 2010 Volume 31, Number 2

“I’m just a soul whose intentions are good...” The Misunderstood Gopher Snake by Debra King ance to rattlesnakes, and the two are often atop Medusa’s head, the snake has long been “Is it poisonous?” confused because gopher snakes mimic a symbol of deceit and sin. Today, we have That’s always the first question visitors rattlesnakes by coiling up and vibrating Slytherin in the popular Harry Potter books ask when they get a glimpse of a four-foot their tails to warn off predators. They also and snakes are regularly used as antagonists long gopher snake at the Don Edwards San flatten their heads to resemble those of in Disney films, such as Jafar inAladdin , Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Environmental Education Center in Alviso, and the answer is, “No.” Most snakes are not actually “poisonous,” but some are venomous. Poisons are substances that are dangerous when ingested or inhaled. Venom, in contrast, is injected. Snakes store venom in glands behind their eyes and use their fangs to inject the venom when they bite their prey. Snake venom can be a hemotoxin that affects blood and organs, or a neurotoxin that affects the nervous system. Both types are painful and often deadly, and many snakes use a combination of the two. Not all snakes are venomous, however. Of more than 2,700 known species, only about 300, or 11% of snakes, are venomous. The Pacific gopher snake is not venomous at all. In fact, it is known to be a fairly harmless snake, and people often pick them Gopher snake – “Please don’t let me be misunderstood.” Photo by Debra King up. (Even though Pacific gopher snakes can be docile, they should never be picked up rattlesnakes and emit a hissing sound. While Hiss in Robin Hood, and Kaa in Jungle Book. or handled because like any other animal, this performance may protect gopher snakes Perhaps you’ve heard of the term they can bite if they feel threatened). To get from many of their foes, humans often kill “snake oil.” “Snake oil”, while traditionally their food, Pacific gopher snakes coil around harmless gopher snakes thinking they are from the Chinese water snake and used in and constrict their prey until it suffocates. venomous and a threat to their safety. Chinese medicine to relieve pain, is now Commonly found in California and Gopher snakes are not the only serpents associated with fake miracle cures and false throughout North America and Mexico, the to be misunderstood. Throughout history, advertising. As the story goes, the Chinese, gopher snake ranges from cream to tan, with the snake has often been painted in a nega- who helped build the Transcontinental stripes, diamond-like patterns and ridged tive light. From the deception of Eve in the scales. Gopher snakes are similar in appear- Garden of Eden, to the serpents writhing continued next page all snakes, can unhinge their jaws to fit Jacobson’s organ, is located at the roof of the from page 1 the entire animal in. Adult gopher snakes snake’s mouth and collects scent informa- Railroad across North America, would give are usually between three and seven feet tion gathered by the tongue. snake oil to Europeans with joint pain. This long, and are mainly ground dwellers and These fascinating creatures are a was ridiculed by doctors in the west and burrowers. These snakes have adapted welcome sight here at the Don Edwards San eventually, snake oils referred to all sorts of to live in a variety of climates. In colder Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. cures whose ingredients were usually secret, regions, they hibernate in the fall and winter We often see them sunning themselves on unidentified, and were mostly inert or inef- but in warmer locations, such as southern a warm day or crossing the entrance road fective. Snake oil peddlers are also familiar California, they can easily be active all year to search for food or shade in the upland characters in Western films, often producing round. Gopher snakes are cold-blooded restoration areas, or on levee trails surround- astounding remedies in front of astonished animals that rely on the temperature of their ing managed ponds. If you come across a crowds. environment to help regulate body tempera- gopher snake, or any other type of wildlife, Some cultures, however, do admire and ture. That’s why you often see gopher snakes you can admire it from a distance so it worship snakes. Hindus worship snakes and on the refuge sunning themselves on a warm doesn’t feel threatened. You’d be amazed at in Judaism, they are a symbol of healing. In rock. Generally diurnal (active during the how closely you can observe wildlife when ancient Egyptian mythology, it is said that day), they sometimes alter their behavioral you are silent and still. Isis, one of their gods, was transformed into patterns and become nocturnal, to a fire-spewing cobra, and whoever bore that avoid extreme heat. Because of their symbol would be in possession of all the adaptability, gopher snakes can be secrets of the material world. In the Chinese found in a variety of habitats, in- Zodiac, people born in the year of the snake cluding coniferous forests, deserts, are said to have the snake’s characteristics of coastal dunes, grasslands and open intelligence and grace. brush areas. In western cultures, consuming snakes Even if you were not born in is not a common practice. On the other the year of the snake, you still share hand, some cultures see the consumption of many traits with them. Like hu- snakes as acceptable. The snake is consid- mans, snakes have five senses: sight, ered a delicacy in some communities, prized smell, taste, hearing, and touch. Gopher snake Photo by Peter Cervantez for its supposed ability to warm the heart. Some of those features are limited In some Asian countries such as China, while others are truly extraordinary. Gopher snake sightings give educators Thailand and Vietnam, it is thought that Snakes may not be able to see or hear as well and interpreters a chance to discuss preda- drinking the blood of snakes increases viril- as we do but some of their senses are truly tor/prey relationships, and to illustrate the ity. In contrast, many people in the United remarkable. Snakes lack external ears, but importance of all species and how they States consider snakes to be wonderful pets. they can use their jaws to hear by picking affect other animals in their shared habitats. You may not agree that gopher snakes up vibrations from the ground. They have Although the refuge is known for its signifi- are intelligent, graceful, or even tasty, a very sensitive sense of touch, with tactile cant role in providing habitat for migratory but they do have many important quali- receptors that allow them to feel very slight birds, the presence of gopher snakes reminds ties. Gopher snakes are a valuable part of changes in their environment. This also us that salt marsh and upland habitats are California’s ecosystem. As predators, they allows snakes to make quick adjustments in important to the survival and wellbeing of help control populations of other species, their movements while moving or hunting. many types of wildlife. It reminds us that and are vital to reducing the number of Heat sensitive pits are one of snakes’ finest the refuge is home to a diversity of species animals we consider pests, such as rats senses. These pits are located between the and that we are all interconnected. Come or gophers. Keeping rodent populations eyes and nostrils and allow snakes to observe explore the refuge, enjoy the wildlife, and under control also help reduce the spread changes in ambient temperature, enabling when you get a glimpse of that often under- of germs and diseases. A gopher snake’s diet them to sense heat coming from other appreciated gopher snake, we hope you will consists of small rodents, birds, eggs, and creatures. This is invaluable for nocturnal remember that all snakes and all indigenous sometimes lizards and insects. After a large hunters. species are intrinsically valuable and special meal, gopher snakes can go for days, even Many snakes look for motion because in their own way. weeks, without eating. This is due to their they are unable to focus on objects while Debra King is the Interpretive slow rate of metabolism. Some snakes, like other snakes only see shades of light and Specialist for the San Francisco Bay Wildlife cobras, can even survive for months without dark. They make up for this limitation Society at the Don Edwards SF Bay NWR eating. Gopher snakes also provide food for with their amazing sense of taste and smell. Environmental Education Center in Alviso, other species. Although they are predators The two are often linked together because and coordinates the Watershed Watchers themselves, they sometimes fall prey to combined, they are very powerful tools for program for the Santa Clara Valley Urban other animals such as red-tailed hawks, foxes snakes. Snakes are typically seen or depicted Runoff Pollution Prevention Program. She is a and coyotes. with their tongues gently flicking outside of California native who studied Environmental Snakes have other interesting qualities their mouths. This is because their tongues Sciences and Music at UC Berkeley, and enjoys too - most swallow their prey whole. If have been adapted to capture scent particles spending her time outdoors, traveling, and their meal is too big, gopher snakes, like in the air. The vomeronasal organ, or playing with animals.

Page 2 The Dust Has Settled After four years of planning and in 2006 and the building renovation began construction, the Visitor Center and in 2008. Thanks to the American Recovery Administrative Headquarters in Fremont and Reinvestment Act (federal stimulus are now complete. The original facilities, funding), we were able to provide both a built in 1979, were designed to house a total more accessible Visitor Center for the public staff of 14 people and act as the principal and more energy-efficient and comfortable

Refuge Reflections by Mendel Stewart

Visitor Center and Headquarters for Bay offices for our staff. The Visitor Center now Area refuges. Over the years, our respon- overlooks the LaRiviere Marsh and includes sibilities have grown with new refuges and new interpretive exhibits, courtesy of the the addition of land to existing refuges. The San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society. The facilities were never expanded or upgraded exhibits highlight the species and habitats adequately when more employees were hired found on the Don Edwards Refuge, along to manage these lands and monitor the with the restoration efforts currently taking New Visitor Center exhibits wildlife. Currently, seven refuges totaling place. The office improvements, meanwhile, Photo by Beth Huning more than 45,000 acres are managed from will allow our staff to step up and help lead the Fremont office. The visitor facilities the restoration and management of wetlands mid-May to introduce the new facilities to also did not meet standards set by the around San Francisco Bay in the next the communities near Fremont. I hope you American Disability Act and the exhibits decade and beyond. will also stop by and view the exhibits in the were outdated. This left both the public and An Open House, coupled with Visitor Center. The Visitor Center is open refuge staff underserved. We began planning Endangered Species Day, was held in Tuesday-Sunday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Teens take action! BE A HABITAT HERO July 20–23, 2010 If you are a teen entering 7th grade or above and have the desire to develop leadership skills through team- building activities and community service on a National Wildlife Refuge, this is a program for YOU! Participants will also serve at one of our special events in 2010. We are specifically recruiting Junior Leaders for our Marsh-In Summer Camp later in the summer. The program is FREE, but space is limited. Applicants must attend all four days of the program and be able to fulfill the service component in 2010. How to apply: Please submit a letter (one page) of interest (with your name, age, address, phone number, parent/guardian’s name) indicating why you would like to participate AND a letter of reference from someone who knows you well (teacher, coach, neighbor, etc.). Application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, June 11, 2010. Participants will be notified by mail and subject to parent/ guardian approval. Questions? Please call Tia at 510-792-0222 ext 474. Please send your letters to: Habitat Heroes, c/o EE Specialist, 9500 Thornton Avenue, Newark, CA 94560. Page 3 Revitalizing a Marsh by Karen Leggett approved chemicals. However, accessing As soon as the bulldozer broke through the marshes for mosquito management and a levee on Tubbs Marsh in San Pablo Bay surveillance disturbed wildlife and plant in northern California in December 2009, populations, and degraded habitat. dowitchers and other shorebirds launched a “We had conflicting missions,” says feeding frenzy in the newly exposed mud. It Giselle Block, wildlife biologist at San Pablo took several years of planning and effort by Bay Refuge, “but we came to realize that by San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge and improving tidal hydrology and returning the marsh to a more natural state, we could benefit both our missions.” The 65-acre Tubbs Marsh enhancement project restored the natural hydrology to an area of tidal marsh Come Back in Two Years that had impaired tidal As each levee was breached, “the shore- flows. The project cost birds responded immediately,” says Block, $339,000, with funds “but we don’t expect California clapper rails and in-kind contribu- for two years because their habitat takes tions from the Service longer to develop.” The remaining levees (a Challenge Cost will erode naturally now that the original Share), ConocoPhillips, flow of water has been restored. They are the San Francisco being planted with native upland cover like Foundation, the Marin- California sagebrush, mudwort and monkey Sonoma Mosquito flower. This cover can provide refuge habitat and Vector Control for marsh-dependent species during extreme District and Audubon high tides. Some believe the levee remnants California, which had could be a buffer against erosion during a longstanding interest extreme tidal events. in San Pablo Bay as a The success of the Tubbs Marsh levee specially designated breaches is just the beginning, Block says. Important Bird Area. The refuge is now collecting baseline data The project created on 500 acres of marsh on Sonoma Creek nine new channels and where once again, past human action has led widened or deepened to poor hydrology. Permitting and fundrais- Tubbs Marsh in San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, eight, breached levees ing are underway with actual work expected CA, is once again a healthy habitat for shorebirds and other at six locations and to begin in about three years. wildlife. Photo by Angela Sanan/USFWS lowered two levees to “This was an example of different marsh elevation. The agencies coming together with different its partners and volunteers to free the marsh physical work took three weeks. Planning, missions and finding common ground,” of the levees, some of which are a cen- raising money and obtaining permits took says Block, with obvious enthusiasm. “The tury old, and make it once again a healthy more than two years. Mosquito Control District is addressing habitat for wildlife. Volunteers contributed 500 hours mosquitoes, the refuge improves habitat for Levees and berms were originally of baseline monitoring on Tubbs Marsh, endangered species and migratory birds and constructed to control the flow of water, providing an inventory of birds, vegetation, Audubon California improved an Important which often sat for extended periods of water quality, sediment, mosquitoes and Bird Area. Plus, it was an incredible way for time, especially after high tide or heavy small mammals – including two endangered people to engage with the environment.” rains. The standing water killed vegetation, species: the California clapper rail and the Karen Leggett is a writer/editor harmed habitat, and promoted mosquitoes. salt marsh harvest mouse. The inventory in the Division of Visitor Services & The Marin-Sonoma Mosquito and Vector will be maintained for at least the next five Communications for the National Wildlife Control District treated the marshes with years. Refuge System.

Page 4 Getting a lift to the Farallones By Doug Cordell requirements for ANG crew, FWS was Getting onto the Farallon Islands has spared the considerable expense of paying never been easy – not for people, anyway. for crew, fuel and helicopter time. Twenty-eight miles off the coast of San “It’s great when two government agen- Francisco, separated from the mainland by cies are able to cooperate like that and both shark-infested ocean waters, the tiny cluster benefit somehow,” said Gerry McChesney, of steep, rocky isles has long posed a chal- acting manager of the Farallon National lenge for researchers and managers looking Wildlife Refuge. to study the teeming seabirds and marine The operation also required coordina- mammals on this historic National Wildlife tion with the National Park Service, since Refuge. Stinson Beach, part of the Golden Gate In recent times, access to Southeast National Recreation Area, is typically Farallon Island—the most commonly open to the public. Stinson Beach Fire traversed – has principally been via a Department crews were on hand to provide 50-foot derrick designed to hoist visitors emergency assistance in the event of an and supplies out of the water in a small accident. “safe boat.” Even that limited access became In addition to the logistical difficulty restricted last fall, though, when parts of the of moving enormously heavy equipment derrick were found to be severely corroded by helicopter over nearly 25 miles of ocean, and in need of replacement. there was the added pressure of a ticking Thanks, however, to an impressive, clock. Because the roar of helicopters disturbs nesting birds, all transports had to be completed by mid-March, California Air National Guard transports when nesting season begins for 13 derrick. FWS photo species of seabirds on the island. With members of the operation impressions of the place: “I was enthralled… putting in long hours over many amazed. The sheer numbers and diversity of days, all sections of the derrick— bird and animal wildlife – what a scientific fashioned and refurbished by Heco goldmine it is.” Pacific Mfg. – were delivered to the Current research at the islands looks Farallones by March 15. PRBO at species populations and reproductive Conservation Science researchers success, not only to gauge the survival of the and FWS refuge staff were on site creatures themselves, but to search for clues throughout to help unload and to changing conditions in the surrounding move the materials. Within days ecosystem. In recent years, there have been Stinson Beach staging area. FWS photo of the last delivery, the sections sharp drops in the populations of some were reassembled by workers from seabird species – which researchers attribute elaborately coordinated effort by the U.S. Sheedy Drayage, with the assistance of Aris to the decline of seabird prey, such as krill Fish &Wildlife Service (FWS) and the Helicopters – both outfits serving as subcon- and anchovies, in local ocean waters. That California Air National Guard (ANG) – to- tractors for Brahma Engineering, Inc. – and decline, in turn, is linked to an increasingly gether with Sheedy Drayage Company and the restored derrick was up and running. volatile ocean environment, including wild Aris Helicopters – the derrick was removed The Farallon National Wildlife swings in ocean temperatures, that may be and replaced in a series of carefully choreo- Refuge was created by President Theodore the result of climate change. graphed airlifts running from December to Roosevelt In 1909 to protect seabirds. It turns out that, with its incredible March. Southeast Farallon and adjacent islets were density and variety of marine wildlife, the With powerful, eight-ton Pave added to the refuge in 1969. Today, the Farallon Refuge is a unique barometer Hawk helicopters, crew members from islands contain the largest seabird breeding of our changing environment. What we the ANG’s 129th Rescue Wing (Moffett colony in the contiguous U.S. – including monitor there can tell us a lot about larger Federal Airfield, CA) and workers from the largest colonies of western gulls and changes afoot. Sheedy Drayage were able to sling 30-foot, Brandt’s cormorants in the world. They Now, thanks to a remarkable team steel sections of derrick to and from the support half the world’s population of rare effort – and some very heavy lifting – islands, using Stinson Beach on California’s Ashy storm-petrels, and are also home to researchers can count on continuing that northern coast as a staging site. FWS refuge five species of seals and sea lions. monitoring. staff provided logistical coordination and Acting refuge manager McChesney, Doug Cordell is the Public Affairs Officer oversight. who began his career as an intern on the at the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Since the airlifts met training hour Farallones with PRBO, describes his first Refuge Complex.

Page 5 Congratulations

3rd grade 1st Place: Rhea Advani, Chadbourne Elementary

4th grade 1st Place: An-Chi Tsai, Warm Springs Elementary

Best in Show by Sami Khan, California Condor, Ardenwood Elementary, 4th Grade Congratulations to Sami Khan for taking the Best in Show in the Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National 5th grade 1st Place: Emily Hsiao, Warm Springs Elementary Wildlife Refuge 28th Annual Endangered Species Poster Contest! This contest is held annually for schools in Union City, Newark, Fremont, and East Palo Alto. Thank you to all who entered. First, second, and third place finishers in each grade level from Kindergarten to 6th grade along with Honorable Mentions can be viewed on-line at www.fws.gov/desfbay/contest.htm. Posters were judged for their attention to detail, portrayal of the habitat, and for the written paragraph describing the species. A huge thank you to the San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society for sponsoring the event! 6th grade 1st Place: Kajal Raju, Gnomes Elementary Page 6 to the 28th Annual Endangered Species Poster Contest Winners!

Kindergarten 1st Place: Pari Sarangdevot, 1st grade 1st Place: Clarise Han, Chadbourne 2nd grade 1st Place: Sabrina Liu, Mission Valley Parkmont Elementary Elementary Elementary

2nd Place: Kelli Chen, Fifth Grade Other winners include: Chadbourne Elementary 1st Place: Emily Hsiao, Kindergarten: 3rd Place: Emma Shen, Warm Springs Elementary Gnomes Elementary 1st Place: Pari Sarangdevot, 2nd Place: Nitya Vakil, Parkmont Elementary Honorable Mention: Justin Jung, Mission Valley Elementary Eastin School 2nd Place: Kiely Wu, 3rd Place: Tejas Harith, Monarch Christian School Warm Springs Elementary Third Grade: 3rd Place: Akshata Shetty, Honorable Mention: Imoni Sanders, Mission San Jose Elementary 1st Place: Rhea Advani, Eastin School Chadbourne Elementary Honorable Mention: Danyal Khan, Warwick Elementary 2nd Place: Gini Chi-Ling Lo, Sixth Grade: Vallejo Mills Elementary 1st Place: Kajal Raju, First Grade: 3rd Place: Gloria Cheng Yang, Gnomes Elementary Chadbourne Elementary 1st Place: Clarise Han, 2nd Place: Susan Nabizada, Chadbourne Elementary Honorable Mention: Kunal Patel, Milani Elementary Parkmont Elementary 2nd Place: Olivia Graham, 3rd Place: Anirudh Ivengar, Maloney Elementary Parkmont Elementary Fourth Grade: 3rd Place: Tavish Mohanti, Honorable Mention: Brian Chou, Mission Valley Elementary 1st Place: An-Chi Tsai, Gnomes Elementary Warm Springs Elementary Honorable Mention: Isha Juneja, Maloney Elementary 2nd Place: Maya Mundada, Stratford School Second Grade: 3rd Place: Lucas Hirsch, 1st Place: Sabrina Liu, Mission Valley Elementary Mission Valley Elementary Honorable Mention: Briant Shen, Mission Valley Elementary Page 7 Thank you San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society Donors!

We gratefully acknowledge the following donors Supporter Shirley Israel, Roman Kendzior, Thomas who have made gifts to the San Francisco Bay H Kono, Enid Leff, Virgil Lown, Bernice United Airlines Employees Wildlife Society between January 1, 2010 and Lowney, Paula Mortensen, Ruth E Mundy, Tanis Walters and Mark Jackson March 31, 2010. These gifts will be used for Clark Nakamura, Cartland Nicholson, Dick publishing Tideline, capital, environmental Family Nelson, Jonelle Preisser, Jean E Toonen, education, habitat restoration, and interpretive Barbara Trowbridge, Beverly Watros, Eric D Dexter Barker, Mary & Gene Bobik, Bill programs at the Don Edwards San Francisco Winch and Frank Wolff Delameter, Edward F Dowling, Lynne Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Fitzjarrell, John C Giles, Cathie Guernsey, Employer Matching Gift Sue Hunt, Bruce Kelly, Douglas & Beckie Kinghorn, Karen McCreddin, Flo Moore, Program Margaret & C. J Panton, Peter White, and CISCO CO Matching Gift Program, Corey Caroline Zlotnick Stohs & Anonymous Individual Sustainer Charmon Ashby, John F Atwood, Charlotte Donald R Emery, Ronald G Franck, Varon & Robert Coomber, Norma Estes, Kate Smith, and Mark A & Kathleen Soulard Frankel, Susan Hampton, Abner Jones, James Kellenberger, Robert W Kirby, Jr., Sponsor Marilyn J Walter, David Riensche, Connie Tim & Cecilia Craig and Frank Delfino Simone, Georg Suchsland, and Julianne Yeaman Participant Marge Callow, Tony & Zeo Coddington, Senior/Student Lynn R Davis, Arthur & Big Al Garibaldi, Rosemary Auwbrey, Rich Cereghino, Norman & Marcia Houseworth, Chris Diane L Ciucci, Ken Crowley, Jeffery M Kitting, and Annemarie Rosengreen Dickemann, Walter R Ems, Willard S Fine,

Help Us Help the Refuge Mail your donation to: San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society, P.O. Box 234, Newark, CA 94560. You may also fax your membership donation using a Visa or MasterCard number to (510) 792-5828.

For a gift membership, call 510-745-8170.

San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization which raises money and awareness for the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

YES! I want to support San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society and its programs with my membership. My dues include a subscription to Tideline and 15% discount at the Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge bookstore. Enclosed is my contribution of:

⁯ $20 Student/Senior ⁯ $50 Family ⁯ $100 Participant ⁯$200 Corporation ⁯$500 Sustainer ⁯ $35 Individual ⁯ $75 Supporter ⁯ $250 Sponsor ⁯ $1,000 Leader

⁯ Check ⁯ Visa or MasterCard #______Exp. Date ______Signature______Name______Address ______City______State_____ Zip ______Phone ______Thank you for your support! Page 8 Volunteer Docent Training Coming in June! If you love our wetlands and want to share your enthusiasm with the public, then the refuge and the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project has the perfect opportunity for you! We are restarting the Project’s docent program and are looking for community members to lead programs with the public. No experience necessary! We will provide the training and tools that you need to become a success. What you will do: • Attend a docent training program • Develop and present your own programs around your interests and passions and/or co-lead preplanned programs with project staff. • Provide important outreach to the public about a project that will reshape the bay for future generations! What you will receive: • Professional presentation and resource training • Mentoring and coaching as you develop your own programs • An opportunity to work closely with project staff • And a free volunteer T-shirt! Maybe some snacks too...

Call Jennifer at 408-262-5513 x106 to learn more and to sign up for the June docent training.

CCP Watch: Status of Comprehensive Conservation Plans (CCP) around the SF Bay NWR Complex vasive emphasis; create boat access; and What is a CCP? B. Wildlife survey emphasis; expand tidal develop full visitor services programs restoration activities; and expand visitor A comprehensive conservation plan is The latest planning update can be opportunities and interpretation like a recipe for managing a wildlife refuge. viewed at http://www.fws.gov/cno/ These plans provide a 15-year guide, using C. Same as B, but also develop wildlife refuges/planning/ccp.cfm. A draft CCP the best available scientific knowledge, to population goals; expand environ- and environmental assessment is expected help managers achieve the purposes for mental education and interpretation to be published for public comment in May which each refuge was established, and to opportunities 2010. Contact Winnie Chan (see below) if contribute to the mission of the National The latest planning update can be you would like a hard copy of these docu- Wildlife Refuge System. The National viewed at http://www.fws.gov/cno/ ments. Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act refuges/planning/ccp.cfm. A draft CCP of 1997 defined the mission for the Refuge and environmental assessment is expected Don Edwards San Francisco System and requires refuges to have CCPs to be published for public comment in May Bay NWR in place by 2012. The Act provides the U.S. 2010. Contact Winnie Chan (see below) if A planning update is now available at Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) with you would like a hard copy of these docu- http://www.fws.gov/desfbay/ that summa- guidance for managing refuges in a way ments. rizes input gathered from public meetings that ensures the long-term conservation of held in October and November 2009. Staff fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats. CCP Ellicott Slough NWR are now developing goals, objectives, and outline goals, objectives and management Like San Pablo Bay NWR, the Ellicott alternatives that are expected to be available strategies for a refuge to achieve during the Slough NWR CCP alternatives have been for review in the next planning update in 15-year life of a CCP. developed and will be available for review in late fall 2010. the next planning update. The three alterna- For more information about the above San Pablo Bay NWR tives include: CCPs, contact Winnie Chan at 510-792- Alternatives are available for review A. Continue current management 0222 x145. To learn more about CCPs, or in the latest planning update. The three B. Wildlife emphasis; increase visitor to view CCPs from other National Wildlife alternatives include: services and environmental education Refuges, log on to http://www.fws.gov/ A. Continue current management C. Same as B, but expand non-native/in- cno/refuges/planning/ccp.cfm Page 9 take the Holly St/Redwood Shores Parkway exit. From at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride in the southbound 101, take the Holly St/Brittan Ave exit. Head van to the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. You will learn about east towards Redwood Shores Parkway. Turn right on this species’ natural history, their unusual homes, and mi- Twin Dolphin Dr and meet at 1000 Twin Dolphin Dr, Red- gration from South America. Space is extremely limited. Summer wood City. Meet in front of Marriot Towne Place Suites. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Sunday, June 13 Sunday, June 20 A c t i v i t y *The Salt Marshes: Then and Now Life at the Bottom of the Food Chain Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) Visitor Center, Fremont Schedule 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Approximately 85% of San Francisco Bay’s wetlands Wetlands microbes are often called “the lungs of the have disappeared over the last 200 years due to industry earth”. Explore the dynamics of microbial communities and development, impacting the wildlife that lived in and in LaRiviere Marsh ponds. Join microbiologist Wayne June around them. Some of the plants and animals have made Lanier, PhD, for a brief presentation in the Visitor Center; a comeback and a few have adapted to the changes. then a microscope hike to LaRiviere Marsh where we will Saturday, June 5 Learn a little about the history of the salt marshes and sample and view the most ancient creatures on earth. the wildlife affected by the changes. The presentation *Marshlands of Dreams See how they produce the oxygen we breath and take includes a slide show followed by a 45-minute walk to up the carbon dioxide we produce. Easy short hiking Visitor Center, Fremont view a salt marsh and the remains of a salt evaporation level. Ages 9 - 90 years. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363 for 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. pond. Bring binoculars, or borrow one of ours. Reserva- reservations. Join a refuge ranger on a 1-mile walk of the LaRiviere tions are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh res- Gregg Aronson. *Father’s Day In The Marsh toration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farm- Environmental Education Center, Alviso ing, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. Led by Saturday, June 19 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Paul Mueller. *Family Bird Walk Give Dad the day off and take him on a relaxing vacation Intro to Nature Drawing for Adults 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. to the Environmental Education Center in Alviso where Visitor Center, Fremont Visitor Center, Fremont he can enjoy a day with the family. After a brief slideshow about the refuge, we’ll take a guided walk around 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Let family walks become a shared time of nature learning. the different wetland habitats searching for native plants Learn the basics of sketching nature. We will learn how We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal bird watch- and animals. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. All ages are to draw with negative shapes and shadows, and how to ing field guides, and then head out onto the trails to find welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104. use color and light to add dimension. We will discuss those birds. A limited number of binoculars are available to how the changing horizon lines can offer depth. There borrow. Recommended for children ages 5-10. RESERVA- *A Taste of the Refuge will be opportunities to practice these techniques on TIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Visitor Center, Fremont the trail. Paper and pencils will be provided. A hat and *Wetland Safari 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. water bottle is recommended. Call for reservations at Take a guided walk on Tidelands Trail and discover 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Travis Turner. Environmental Education Center, Alviso 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. which plants are edible or have medicinal uses. We’ll taste some of these plants on the refuge, or in commer- Take a 1-hour van tour around our former salt ponds. Sunday, June 6 cially made products. Led by Carmen Minch. Bird life is generally more abundant on little-used portions In Search of: California Grey Fox of the trail. We will make several stops for better viewing Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) and photography (if desired) and we’ll take a look at what Saturday, June 26 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. is left of Drawbridge. Due to limited van seating, a second *Advanced Bird Learn about the California Grey Fox, the only canine that tour will begin at 11:30 a.m. if needed. Please call Debra Photography Workshop can climb trees. What do they look like? Where do they at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations. Environmental Education Center, Alviso live? What do they eat? We will share information about 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. this fox to optimize your chances of capturing a glimpse *Salt Marsh Life at the Bottom of the Continuing where “Beginning Bird Photography” left off, of them. The tour begins with a 45-minute slideshow, fol- Food Chain this three-hour workshop will address aesthetics (e.g., lowed by a 45-minute walk. Led by Art Garibaldi. Environmental Education Center, Alviso advanced composition) nature (animal behavior, sea- 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. sons, tides), and techniques (exposure, depth of field, Saturday, June 12 Let’s explore the salt marsh’s hidden habitats! Wetlands flash, etc.). Material is geared toward SLR cameras, but microbes are often called “the lungs of the earth” and we Redwood Shores Trail much is applicable to any camera type. Afterwards, we’ll will explore the dynamics of microbial communities in take an optional stroll on the refuge to practice what we 5 miles roundtrip New Chicago Marsh ponds. Join microbiologist Wayne learned, so bring your camera if you have one. Not suit- Meet in front of Marriot Towne Place Suites Lanier, PhD, for a brief presentation at the Environmental able for children. Led by Paul Bridges. Reservations are Directions Below Education Center, then a microscope hike around New required. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. 9:00 a.m. Chicago Marsh where we will sample and view the most Meet new people while getting fit ancient creatures on earth. See how they produce the Nature Drawing for Kids and healthy! This is the 4th walk fea- oxygen we breath and take up the carbon dioxide we pro- Visitor Center, Fremont tured in the Refuge Rambler club. duce. Easy short hiking level. Ages 10 to 80 and beyond! 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. This trail in Redwood Shores is flat Call Debra at 262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations. Learn the basics of sketching nature in this new work- and level. The walk is self-paced shop by Travis Turner. We will learn how to draw what and you may turn back at any time. You do not need to *Return of the Swallows we see by incorporating common shapes, and learn be a Refuge Rambler to join this walk. No reservations Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) about color value. We will then head out onto the trail and are needed. Hats, water, and sunscreen are strongly 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. practice the various techniques. Paper and pencils will be recommended. A Refuge Representative will be there to Join Roy Sasai to view barn and cliff swallows at the ref- provided. Recommended for ages 5-10. Bring a hat and greet you at 9 a.m. Directions: From northbound 101, uge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. Meet water. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363.

Trails are generally level. Surface and trail conditions vary. Please call for accessibility information. Visitor Center, 2 Marshlands* Road, Fremont – (510) 792-0222 ext. 363 • Environmental Education Center, 1751 Grand Blvd, Alviso – (408) 262-5513

Page 10 Twilight Marsh Walk edge through wetlands restoration. Recommended for Visitor Center, Fremont ages 12 and over. Space is limited. RESERVATIONS 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. REQUIRED. Call Jennifer at 408-262-5513 ext. 106. Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll Exploring the Weep! along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the Summer Environmental Education Center, Alviso sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the Join expert microbial ecologist Dr. Wayne Lanier on a refuge as night descends. Not suitable for young chil- A c t i v i t y short bike ride to study microbial communities. Pedes- dren. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 trians are welcome – trip to the weep site will just take a ext 363. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. while longer. The weep is a shallow persistent pond fed Schedule by seepage. Over the year it undergoes very wide swings Sunday, June 27 in salinity, and the result is a uniquely rich microbial com- *Return of the Swallows munity of Cyanobacteria, Archeabacteria, Diatoms, Dino- Learn a little about the history of the salt marshes and the wildlife affected by the changes. The presentation Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) flagellates, and protozoa. Boots are recommended! Ages includes a slideshow followed by a 45-minute walk to 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. 10 and up. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. view a salt marsh and the remains of a salt evaporation Join Roy Sasai to view barn and cliff swallows at the ref- pond. Bring binoculars or borrow one of ours. Reserva- uge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. Meet *Family Bird Walk tions are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride in the 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Gregg Aronson. van to the Dumbarton Fish- Visitor Center, Fremont ing Pier. You will learn Let family walks become a shared time of nature learn- about this species’ Saturday, July 17 ing. We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal bird natural history, their Water, Water, Everywhere! watching field guides, and then head out onto the trails unusual homes, and Environmental Education Center, Alviso to find those birds. A limited number of binoculars are migration from South available to borrow. Recommended for children ages 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. America. Space is ex- 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 Where does the water come from and where does it tremely limited. Res- ext. 363. go? Learn all about the water cycle and watersheds. ervations are required. Build your own model of a watershed and see if you Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. can predict where the water will go! Recommended for Sunday, July 11 ages 7 and up. Led by Ed Kantack. Please call Debra at Drawbridge Van Excursion 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for reservations. Environmental Education Center, Alviso JULY 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Intro to Nature Drawing for Adults Visitor Center, Fremont Saturday, July 3 There’s a ghost town in the San Francisco Bay? That’s right! Nestled on an island in the salt marshes of South 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. *Marshlands of Dreams San Francisco Bay, the town of Drawbridge once Learn the basics of sketching nature. We will learn how Visitor Center, Fremont boomed. Was it a quiet, peaceful town full of nature to draw with negative shapes and shadows, and how to 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. lovers, or a rip-roaring town full of two-fisted rowdies? use color and light to add dimension. We will also talk Join a refuge ranger on a 1-mile walk of the LaRiviere Find out at this program led by Ceal Craig. Start with a about how the changing horizon lines can offer depth. Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh res- slideshow, and then take a short van excursion to view There will be opportunities to practice these techniques toration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farm- Drawbridge across Coyote Creek. Program is intended on the trail. Paper and pencils will be provided. A hat and ing, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. Led by for adults and space is very limited. RESERVATIONS water bottle is recommended. Call for reservations at ARE ESSENTIAL. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. Paul Mueller. 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Travis Turner. We do not visit the town itself – we go to the closest spot where one can legally view Drawbridge. Saturday, July 10 Sunday, July 18 Community Service *Chompers & Stompers *A Taste of the Refuge Environmental Education Center, Alviso Visitor Center, Fremont Visitor Center, Fremont 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Ever wondered why birds come in so many shapes, If you are interested in improving the refuge for visitors Take a guided walk on Tidelands Trail and discover sizes, and colors? Find out why some birds exhibit wacky and for wildlife alike, join us in Fremont for a commu- which plants are edible or have medicinal uses. We’ll behaviors. We will examine different bird specimens we nity service project. We will do either a trash pickup or taste some of these plants on the refuge, or in commer- have collected over the years to see how birds have a planting/weeding project. Dress appropriately for the cially made products. Led by Carmen Minch. adapted to some extraordinary features. Come admire task and for the weather. Gloves and tools will be pro- the wonders of the bird kingdom and then take a guided vided. Bring a water bottle. Meet in the parking lot at *Return of the Swallows walk to see these marvelous creatures in action. RESER- the Visitor Center. Driving an additional 2.5 miles may Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) VATIONS REQUIRED – All Ages are welcome. Call Eric be required if project takes place at a different loca- 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. at 408-262-5513 ext. 104. tion. For more information, or to make reservations, call Join Art Garibaldi to view barn and cliff swallows at the 510-792-0222 ext. 363. *The Salt Marshes: Then and Now refuge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. Meet at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) Cruisin’ Towards Restoration in the van to the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. You will learn Environmental Education Center, Alviso 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. about this species’ natural history, their unusual homes, 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Approximately 85% of San Francisco Bay’s wetlands and migration from South America. Space is extremely have disappeared over the last 200 years due to industry The salt ponds of the South Bay are undergoing an limited. Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 and development, impacting the wildlife that lived in and amazing transformation! We’ll journey by van out into ext. 363. around them. Some of the plants and animals have made this unique landscape to discover the rebirth of the Bay’s a comeback and a few have adapted to the changes.

Page 11 Return of the Swallows Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) Sunday, August 8 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. *The Salt Marshes: Then and Now Join Art Garibaldi to view Barn and Cliff swallows at the Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) Summer Refuge. See their nests and view their feeding habits. 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Meet at the pavilion for a slideshow, and then take a ride Approximately 85% of San Francisco Bay’s wetlands in the van to the Dumbarton Fishing Pier. You will learn have disappeared over the last 200 years due to industry A c t i v i t y this species’ natural history, unusual homes, and migra- and development, impacting the wildlife that lived in and tion from South America. Space is extremely limited. around them. Some of the plants and animals have made Schedule Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. a comeback and a few have adapted to the changes. Learn a little about the history of the salt marshes and Saturday, July 31 the wildlife affected by the changes. The presentation includes a slide show followed by a 45-minute walk to view Friday, July 23 Nature Drawing for Kids Visitor Center, Fremont a salt marsh and the remains of a salt evaporation pond. Bring binoculars, or borrow one of ours. Call 510-792- Just 4 Tots 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. 0222 ext. 393 for reservations. Led by Gregg Aronson. Environmental Education Center, Alviso Learn the basics of sketching nature in this new work- 1:00 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. shop by Travis Turner. We will learn how to draw what If you have a tot, then this program is for you! We’ll we see by incorporating common shapes, and learn Saturday, August 14 explore the refuge and its wildlife with fun and enter- about color value. We will then head out onto the trail and *Mud Creatures Study taining activities geared toward the younger set. We’ll practice the various techniques. Paper and pencils will be Environmental Education Center, Alviso have story time, puppet time, and craft time! Suitable provided. Recommended for ages 5-10. Bring a hat and 10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. for ages 4-6. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for water. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Ever wonder what lies beneath the water and lurks about reservations. in our wetlands? Come find out! We’ll explore all the different habitats at the refuge and then focus on the tiny Saturday, July 24 critters that call the mud their home. We’ll collect samples Mallard Slough Trail August and use microscopes, just like scientists! Recommended 5.5 miles roundtrip for ages 7 and up. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 Environmental Education Center, Alviso Saturday, August 7 for reservations. 9:00 a.m. Dawn Photography Hike Intro to Nature Drawing for Adults Meet new people while getting fit Eden Landing Ecological Reserve, Hayward Visitor Center, Fremont and healthy! This is the 5th walk fea- 5:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. tured in the Refuge Rambler club. Hidden among the salt ponds is one of the East Bay’s Learn the basics of sketching nature. We will learn how This trail is compacted dirt, flat and most intriguing historical sites. The refuge and the South to draw with negative shapes and shadows, and how to level. The walk is self-paced and Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project are sponsoring this use color and light to add dimension. We will also talk you may turn back at anytime. You do not need to be photography hike to the old Oliver Salt Works within about how the changing horizon lines can offer depth. a Refuge Rambler to join this walk. To become a Ref- the Eden Landing Ecological Reserve. We’ll be walking There will be opportunities to practice these techniques uge Rambler, log on to our website. No reservations are into an area of the reserve not yet open to the public so on the trail. Paper and pencils will be provided. A hat and needed. Hats, water, and sunscreen are strongly recom- please be prepared to walk several miles on unimproved water bottle is recommended. Call for reservations at mended. Park Ranger Jennifer Heroux will be there to levees with your equipment. Reservations required. Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363. Led by Travis Turner. greet you at 9 a.m. 408-262-5513 ext.106 In Search of: Endangered Twilight Marsh Walk *Marshlands of Dreams California Clapper Rail Visitor Center, Fremont Visitor Center, Fremont Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll Join a refuge ranger on a 1- mile walk of the LaRiviere Come learn about the endangered and rarely-seen Cali- along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the Marsh Trail to find traces of the past. Prior to marsh res- fornia Clapper Rail. What do they look like? What do they sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. toration, learn how Californians utilized the area for farm- eat? How many are left? When is the best time to see Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the ing, quarrying, salt production, and transportation. Led by them? We will share information about this secretive bird refuge as night descends. Not suitable for young chil- Paul Mueller. to optimize your chances of capturing a glimpse of them. dren. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 The tour is comprised of a 45-minute slideshow followed ext 363. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. *Family Bird Walk by a 45-minute walk. Led by Art Garibaldi. 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Sunday, July 25 Visitor Center, Fremont Sunday, August 15 Marsh Mud Mania Let family walks become a shared time of nature learning. We’ll begin by helping kids create their personal bird Barnacles, Mussels, and Environmental Education Center, Alviso watching field guides, and then head out onto the trails 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Snails, Oh My! to find those birds. A limited number of binoculars are Learning Center, Fremont (near Visitor Center) What’s that wiggling and squiggling? Think that brown available to borrow. Recommended for children ages stuff is just mud? Think again! A living colony of organ- 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. 5-10. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 Join Roy Sasai to learn about the bay shore life, it’s wild- isms is at work in the mucky-muck. Discover how the ext. 363. smallest of creatures have the largest impact on the life, and local history. Meet at the Learning Center for a ecosystem. Learn how to filter a mud sample and use short presentation before taking a ride in the van to the our microscopes to investigate the creepy crawlies of the bay shore to see the wildlife. Space is extremely limited. sloughs. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All ages are Reservations are required. Call 510-792-0222 Ext 363. welcome. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104.

Page 12 Bird Drawing & Sketching Environmental Education Center, Alviso Sunday, August 22 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. In Search of: Endangered Grab a pencil and some paper and join us for an intro- California Clapper Rail duction to drawing and sketching our feathered friends. Summer Learning Center, Fremont (near Visitor Center) We will go over the basic concepts of pencil drawing and 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. use refuge specimens to take a closer look at shapes Come learn about the endangered and rarely-seen and forms to help bring your drawings to life. RESER- A c t i v i t y California Clapper Rail. What do they look like? VATIONS REQUIRED – Ages 10 and up. Call Eric at What do they eat? When is the best time 408-262-5513 ext. 104. to see them? We will share information Schedule about this secretive bird to optimize your Friday, August 20 chances of capturing a glimpse of them. Night Sky Party! The tour is comprised of a 45-minute Find out at this program led by Ceal Craig. Start with a Environmental Education Center, Alviso slideshow followed by a 45-minute slideshow, and then take a short van excursion to view 8:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. walk. Led by Art Garibaldi. Drawbridge across Coyote Creek. Program is intended Meet the stars of Summer! Join amateur astronomer for adults and space is very limited. RESERVATIONS Bob Havner as we learn about constellations. Make a ARE ESSENTIAL. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. star chart and then venture outside to view the night sky We do not visit the town itself – we go to the closest spot through a telescope. Afterwards, warm up with some hot Saturday, August 28 where one can legally view Drawbridge. chocolate. Bring your own binoculars or spotting scopes if you have them. Fun for the whole family! Dress warmly. Alviso Slough Trail – 9 mile-loop Salt Pond Restoration 101: An Program will go on sprinkling rain or shine. Program will Meet at the Alviso Marina, Alviso Introduction to the Project be canceled only if it is pouring rain. RESERVATIONS 8:30 a.m. Environmental Education Center, Alviso REQUIRED. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext 102. Meet new people while getting fit 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. and healthy! This is the 6th walk Restoration of 15,100 acres of South San Francisco Bay Saturday, August 21 featured in the Refuge Rambler salt ponds to wetlands habitats has begun. Please join club. This trail in Alviso is a 9- mile us for overview of this incredible project happening in our Nature Drawing for Kids loop, flat, and level. The walk is self- backyard. Program will begin indoors but will move out- Visitor Center, Fremont paced and you may turn back at anytime. Hats, water, side via an easy 0.25-mile trail to a view of the salt ponds. 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. and sunscreen are strongly recommended. There is no All are welcome! Learn the basics of sketching nature in this new work- shade. You do not need to be a Refuge Rambler to join shop by Travis Turner. We will learn how to draw what this walk. No reservations are needed. A refuge repre- All About Owls we see by incorporating common shapes, and learn sentative will be there to greet you at 8:30 a.m. Direc- Environmental Education Center, Alviso about color value. We will then head out onto the trail and tions: From Hwy 237, exit at Lafayette/Gold St. Head 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. practice the various techniques. Paper and pencils will be north onto the Gold St. Connector and left onto Gold St. Learn all that you’ve ever wanted to learn about owls provided. Recommended for ages 5-10. Bring a hat and Turn left onto Elizabeth St and right onto Hope St., which here at the refuge! Where and what do owls eat? How do water. Call for reservations at 510-792-0222 ext. 363. leads you to the Alviso Marina. Meet in the picnic table we not hear them when they flap their wings? Through area adjacent to the restrooms. an interactive presentation and owl pellet dissection, we’ll Butterflies, Etc. find the answers to all these questions. Paul Bridges will Environmental Education Center, Alviso Bike Tour on the Levees lead the way. Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102 for 1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Environmental Education Center, Alviso reservations. Do you know the difference between butterflies, moths 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. and skippers? Learn the difference and their life cycles. The salt ponds of the South Bay are undergoing an Sunday, August 29 Then take a leisurely walk around our butterfly gar- amazing transformation! Journey by bike out into this den and see some of these beautiful insects. Suitable unique landscape and discover the rebirth of the Bay’s Mysteries Of Wastewater Treatment for ages 7 and up. Led by Ed Kantack. Call Debra at edge through wetlands restoration. Salt Ponds A16 and Environmental Education Center, Alviso 408-262-5513 ext. 102 to sign up! A17 will play a starring role in this leisurely 5.5-mile tour 1:00 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. The San Jose-Santa Clara Water Pollution Control Plant Twilight Marsh Walk of the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project. Helmets are required and knobby tires strongly encouraged. Rec- treats hundreds of millions of gallons of wastewater from Visitor Center, Fremont ommended for ages 8 and over. RSVP at 408-262-5513 millions of people every day using some of the most 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. ext.106. advanced treatment technologies available. Come and Experience the salt marsh at twilight on an easy stroll learn about what it takes to make this interesting process along Tidelands (1 1/3 mile) Trail. At the setting of the Drawbridge Van Excursion happen through a slideshow and hands-on activities. sun we will observe the beginning of nature’s night shift. Environmental Education Center, Alviso RESERVATIONS REQUIRED – All Ages are welcome. Come discover the sights, sounds, and smells of the 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Call Eric at 408-262-5513 ext. 104. refuge as night descends. Not suitable for young chil- There’s a ghost town in the San Francisco Bay? That’s dren. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Call 510-792-0222 right! Nestled on an island in the salt marshes of South Barnacles, Mussels, and ext. 363. Led by Mary and Gene Bobik. San Francisco Bay, the town of Drawbridge once Snails, Oh My! boomed. Was it a quiet, peaceful town full of nature Learning Center, Fremont (Near Visitor Center) lovers, or a rip-roaring town full of two-fisted rowdies? 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.

Page 13 Field Trips to the Refuge General Field Trip Field Trips at the Program Information Environmental Education We offer FREE field trip programs at two sites at the Don Center in Alviso Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Wetland Wetland Round-Up Round-Up field trip programs are offered at our refuge headquarters Investigate the butterflies in the butterfly garden, taste pickleweed in Fremont, and Wetland Round-Up and Slow the Flow field trip in the salt marsh, or discover the creatures that live in the slough programs are offered at the Environmental Education Center in water on a Wetland Round-Up field trip. This field trip program is Alviso. These programs actively involve teachers, adult volunteers, designed for up to 65 students in grades K-6. Wetland Round-Up and students in investigating the diverse habitats and wildlife is offered Monday – Thursday from October to December, 2010. at the refuge. The hands-on, small-group activities are designed to teach basic ecological concepts and to introduce endangered We will begin scheduling Fall 2010 field trips on Thursday, species, migratory birds, and wetland habitats to the students. All September 9 from 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. For more information, programs have been correlated to the appropriate State of California call the Environmental Education Intern at 408-262-5513 Education Standards. ext. 103. Educators and adult leaders conduct their own field trips after attending a Field Trip Orientation Workshop. The Orientation Workshop allows you to design and conduct your own field trip. In Field Trip Orientation Workshop Dates at the addition, adult volunteers must be recruited to lead the activities at the different learning stations and to chaperone the rotation groups Environmental Education Center in Alviso of students. We provide easy to follow “scripts” for each station, but All Orientations are from 4:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. both “leaders” and “chaperones” are strongly encouraged to attend a Fall orientations will be announced in September. Field Trip Orientation Workshop. It is our policy that lead educa- Call the Environmental Education Intern at 408-262-5513 ext. 103 tors must attend training every two years. Location of activities and to attend an orientation. ** Please note: The cut off date to make a trail conditions may vary. Please call for accessibility information. reservation is the Friday before each orientation date.

Field Trips at the Learning The Slow the Flow Program Center in Fremont Slow the Flow provides an experiential learning environment for students and educators to explore the topics of water use, wastewa- Wetland Round-Up ter treatment, and habitat preservation. Activities and presentations focus on the relationship between personal habits and their effects Explore the habitats of the refuge! Investigate creatures of the mud on local habitats. Slow the Flow is an environmental education flats, collect plankton from the slough, and taste pickleweed from program offered at no cost through the cooperating efforts of the salt marsh. This field trip is designed for grades K-6, for up to the City of San Jose, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the San 65 students. Wetland Round-Up will be offered Tuesday – Friday Francisco Bay Wildlife Society. Slow the Flow programs are avail- from October to mid-December, 2010. able to educators and groups located in San Jose, Alviso, Milpitas, NEW MAIL-IN RESERVATION PROCEDURES Santa Clara, Saratoga, Monte Sereno, Los Gatos, Campbell, and can be found on our web site at Cupertino. http://www.fws.gov/desfbay/ EE_Registration.htm. Programs are offered to 5th – 12th grade students. A modified field trip is available for college groups. Educators are encouraged Field Trip Orientation to contact us to discuss options for customizing field trips and Dates at the Learning classroom presentation activities and schedules. Reservations for Center in Fremont the Slow the Flow program are on a first-come basis. For more To be announced. information or to make a reservation for summer or fall, call Eric McKee, the Slow the Flow Program Coordinator at 408- Call the Environmental Education Intern at 510-792-0222 262-5513 ext. 104 or email at [email protected]. ext. 475 for further information.

Page 14 Scout and Youth Group Programs The Don Edwards San Francisco Bay sponsored by the Santa Clara Valley Urban National Wildlife Refuge offers free hands- Runoff Pollution Prevention Program and Saturday, July 24 on, programs for youths. During the pro- the San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society. Webelos Naturalist Badge grams participants learn about endangered 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. species, migratory birds, wetland habitats, Youth Group Programs at Anyone out there need to earn a Naturalist badge? and the relationship between personal habits We’ve got the program that’s right for Webelos! Learn the Environmental Education about birds, migration, flyways, food chains, human im- and their effects on the San Francisco Bay. Center in Alviso pact, and the importance of wetlands. Then take a walk These programs are designed to meet badge/ Reservations for Summer programs and use our binoculars to spot birds in the wild. patch requirements of Scout Groups, but begin on Thursday, June 17 between 3-4 anyone can participate. Because of the p.m. and will continue until program is full. Youth Group Programs at popularity of such programs, reservations Call Debra at 408-262-5513 ext. 102. are required. Badges are not provided. the Refuge Headquarters in Note: Ratio of 1 adult per 5 children Fremont Below are the names, dates, and maximum. Space is limited to 20 people, The Refuge Headquarters offers descriptions of the programs. Programs at including siblings (no siblings under 5 Webelos programs for up to 15 Webelos. the Environmental Education Center are yrs-old). Once the program is full there will Call 510-792-0222 ext. 363 for reserva- be a waiting list. tions. All programs are led by June Smith. Saturday, July 10 Saturdays, June 12 and July 31 Brownie Eco-Explorer Patch Webelos Naturalist Program 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. Come and learn about habitats, food chains, and how 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. you can help wildlife. Then take a walk to explore the Attention Webelos! Earn your naturalist badge in just two habitats at the southern end of the bay. hours. During this hike, learn about birds, flyways, food chains, and the importance of wetlands. Bring your bin- Saturday, July 24 oculars, or borrow one of ours. Junior Girl Scout Wildlife Badge 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Calling all Junior Girl Scouts of Santa Clara County! Any- one out there need to earn a Wildlife badge? We’ve got the program just for you! Come to the Wildlife Refuge and learn about features of different creatures, observe animal behavior, and see how you can help wildlife. Take a walk to explore the habitats at the southern end of the bay.

TIDELINE Don Edwards Refuge Manager:...... Eric Mruz San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society Published quarterly by San Francisco Bay National Wild- Don Edwards Wildlife Specialist:...... Melisa Helton A nonprofit 501(c)(3) cooperating association established life Refuge Complex, with funding from San Francisco Don Edwards Warm Springs Unit Manager:. Ivette Loredo in 1987 to promote public awareness and appreciation Bay Wildlife Society. Farallon Refuge Wildlife Specialist:...... Zach Coffman of San Francisco Bay and fund education and outreach Volume 31, Number 2 North Bay Refuges Manager:...... Christy Smith programs at San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Editor:...... Carmen Minch North Bay Wildlife Specialist:...... Louis Terrazas Board of Directors To receive Tideline, email carmen_leong-minch@fws. South Bay Refuges Manager:...... Diane Kodama President:...... Christopher Kitting gov, or write to: Tideline, San Francisco Bay National Public Affairs Officer:...... Doug Cordell Vice President:...... Terry Smith Wildlife Refuge Complex, 9500 Thornton Ave, Newark, Refuge Planner:...... Winnie Chan CA 94560. Treasurer: ...... Bart Anderson Outdoor Recreation Planners:...... Jennifer Heroux and San Francisco Bay Secretary:...... Ceal Craig Carmen Minch National Wildlife Refuge Complex Directors: ...... Cheryl Davis, Sue Ten Eyck, Environmental Education Specialists: ...... Tia Glagolev, Administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, San David Riensche, and Varon Smith Genie Moore, and Kimby Wells Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex exists to Staff Volunteer Coordinator:...... Paul Mueller preserve wildlife habitat, protect threatened and endan- Interpretive Specialist:...... Debra King Law Enforcement Officers:...... Jared Klein gered species, protect migratory birds, and provide op- Education Specialist:...... Eric McKee portunities for nature study. Seven refuges are managed Biologists:...... Joy Albertson, Giselle Block, Restoration Ecologist:...... David Thomson from the headquarters in Fremont: Antioch Dunes NWR, Rachel Tertes, Gerry McChesney, Susan Euing, Program Administrator:...... Sue Ten Eyck Don Edwards San Francisco Bay NWR, Ellicott Slough Meg Marriott, and Cheryl Strong NWR, Farallon NWR, Marin Islands NWR, Salinas River Administrative Staff:...Lucinda Ballard, Patricia Compton, Tideline is On-Line NWR, and San Pablo Bay NWR. Ellen Tong, and Lauren Hupp Visit our web site, which features past issues Project Leader:...... Mendel Stewart Maintenance Staff: ...... Juan Flores, James Griffin, Calvin of Tideline, at http://www.fws.gov/desfbay Sahara, Michael Springman, and Norman Winkler Deputy Project Leader:...... John Bradley

Page 15 UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR FIRST-CLASS MAIL FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE DON EDWARDS SAN FRANCISCO BAY POSTAGE & FEES PAID NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE 9500 Thornton Ave U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Newark, CA 94560

OFFICIAL BUSINESS Permit No. G-77 PENALTY FOR PRIVATE USE, $300

Inside This Issue SUMMER 2010 1 Misunderstood Snakes Volume 31, Number 2 3 Refuge Reflections 4 Revitalizing Tubbs Marsh 5 Lift to the Farralones 6-7 Endangered Species Poster Contest Winners 9 Docent Training 10-13 Summer Activities 14-15 Field Trips to the Refuge

Visitor Center, Fremont (510) 792-0222 ext. 363 Directions: From Highway 84 (at the east end of the Dumbarton Bridge), exit at Thornton Avenue. Travel south on Thornton Avenue for 0.8 miles to the Refuge entrance on the right. Turn right into the Refuge and follow the signs to the Visitor Center. Environmental Education Center, Alviso (408) 262-5513 Directions: From I-880 or Highway 101, exit on Highway 237 toward Mountain View/ Alviso. Turn north onto Zanker Road. Continue on Zanker Road to the Environmental Education Center entrance road (a sharp right turn at Grand Blvd.) The distance It is the policy of the Fish and from 237 to the Wildlife Service to accommodate entrance road is 2.1 individuals with disabilities. If you miles. 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.