SPEAKER SERIES Newsletter of the Marin Audubon Society. Vol. 60, No. 09 May 2018 Free and Open to the public Richardson Bay Audubon Center 376 Greenwood Beach Road, Tiburon Information: 415/789-0703
THURSDAY, MAY 10 7:30 PM Charadrius, Conservation, and Snowy Plovers With Matt Lau The MARIN AUDUBONRail SOCIETY MAS Annual Meeting, May 11 oin us for Marin Audubon’s Annual Meeting organization. Our special thanks to nominating which will be held at our May Speaker Series committee members Bob Hinz, Lowell Sykes Program on Thursday evening, May 10. and Susan Kelly. There is still an open position. J The purpose of our Annual Meeting is to We are looking for someone to help us engage elect members of our Board of Directors for the volunteers. Anyone interested should contact coming three years. The election will take place Bob Hinz.
Matt Lau Matt just before the speaker presentation. This year We urge you to exercise your right to vote for Western Snowy Plover our speaker will be Snowy Plover Ecologist Board members who manage our organization There are 40 species of plovers in Matt Lau (see adjacent column for specifics on by joining us on May 10 and, as well, to hear the genus Charadrius, including six the speaker presentation). We will also have a what we expect will be an interesting program. in the U.S. Nearly 98% of species brief overview of our accomplishments for the in this genus face varying levels of past year. extinction due to a variety of natural As a 501(c)(3) non-profit membership TREAT MOM TO A WEST MARIN TRADITION and anthropogenic factors. organization, members of Marin Audubon elect The Western Snowy Plover is its Board members. The term for Directors is The Marin Audubon Society’s listed as Near Threatened on the three years. IUCN red list and Threatened on the This year our nominees are current Board Mother’s Day Picnic U.S. Endangered Species List. This Members who are up for reelection: Ed Nute to benefit Audubon Canyon Ranch species is troubled by many of the who has been our Property Management and Marin Audubon Society same threats that its congeners Chair, Jane Medley our Field Trip Chair, Phil face, including habitat loss, human The Martin Griffin Preserve disturbance, and nest predation. Peterson, Conservation Co-chair, and Barbara May 13, 2018, 11 AM – 3 PM Salzman, President and Conservation Co-chair. Breeding numbers have been steadily Tickets: www.marinaudubon.org increasing over the last several All have served well in their capacities and play years due to intensive management an important role in the functioning of our and monitoring by various federal and state agencies, nonprofits, and volunteer groups. We’ll review Conservation challenges facing Snowy Plovers, discuss their natural history and Fund-raising for Black Point Acquisition Begins breeding ecology, and look at their Marin Audubon is now in contract to pur- acquire undeveloped baylands parcels in the population status in Point Reyes. chase the 2.3-acre property at Black Point and, Black Point Area. We hope someday to have Matt Lau is the Snowy Plover Ecologist for Point Reyes National together with our partner in acquisitions, Marin enough to ensure a sizable landscape habitat is Seashore. He received both his B.S. Baylands Advocates, MAS will be working protected. We currently own five parcels in the and Master’s degrees from Humboldt to raise funds for the acquisition. To acquire Holly/Hemlock area as well as three around State University, where he has the property which is bounded by Holly and nearby Norton Pond and the pond itself. Our previously worked with Snowy Plovers Hemlock Streets, we need to raise $115,000. original acquisitions were of tiny parcels on and developed a love for birding. We will also be seeking grant funds and appeal- which owners defaulted on their taxes. We have ing to members and previous donors. combined some of these parcels to reduce the IN THIS ISSUE The property consists of two parcels that parcel taxes we must pay. support native oak-wooded hillside and diked President’s Message 2 baylands. The lowlands at the base of the HOW YOU CAN HELP Field Trips 2, 3, and 7 hills were subject to the tides until dikes were constructed along the bay-edge of the marshes. Send a donation to Marin Audubon Society, Conservation Report 4 During wet winters water still ponds in the P.O. Box 599, Mill Valley, 94942. Include a message that you want the donation used lowlands. The property needs enhancing, mainly Habitat Stewardship 6 for the Black Point property acquisition. broom to be removed and a minor amount of Birdlog 7 debris (car body parts) to be hauled off. This acquisition is part of our program to Conservation continued on page 4
LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON MAY 2018 1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS All phone numbers are in the 415 area code President’s Message unless otherwise noted. Questions? Please By Barbara Salzman contact the appropriate Board member. President Barbara Salzman 924-6057 National Audubon Society, National Geographic Spring is here and a reminder about your Vice President Lowell Sykes 388-2821 yard work. Do not destroy any bird nests. Let Secretary Everett Clark 789-9224 Society and other conservation and research Treasurer Susan Winston 949/632-0908 organizations have designated 2018 the “Year of your yard trimming and tree cutting wait until Conservation Phil Peterson 828-4780 the Bird” in honor of the 100th Anniversary of after nesting season in August or September. The Barbara Salzman 924-6057 the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. The Migratory birds will benefit and you will be happy with Field Trips Jane Medley 559/760-1551 Bird Treaty Act was passed by Congress in yourself knowing that you may have saved some Membership William Legge 388-7883 2018 and was approved by many other nations baby birds. Some other tips to help wildlife Outreach Elyse Omernick 694-2320 in an effort to protect birds that migrated in your garden: choose plant species that are Fundraising Everett Clark 789-9224 between nations. The Act lists most of the bird native to your location (remember that Marin Speaker Series/Programs species we see in Marin. The need for vigilance has sub-habitats from the dry north county Susan Kelly 883-9505 to very moist areas around Mt. Tam and the Special Projects Jude Stalker 680-6291 continues in the light of the administration’s coast), put out water and do not use chemicals. Nominating Bob Hinz, 383-8688 weakening of the Act so that companies may Remember to reserve your place for the Editor, The Rail Bob Hinz, 383-8688 no longer be held accountable for harming Website Susan Kelly 883-9505 birds. See article on page 5 for Marin County’s Mother’s Day Picnic at Audubon Canyon Property Management Ed Nute 669-7710 resolution to protect birds. Ranch. See the flyer in the April Rail or sign up Publicity Barbara Freitas 924-7477 The Marin County Superior Court found at marinaudubon.org. BAAC Reps Lowell Sykes 388-2821 that the Open Space District (OSD) abused its Barbara Salzman 924-6057 discretion by failing to comply with California DIRECTORS MEETINGS Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) when Attend the Screening Meetings open to members. If you wish to attend please call 924-6057. it did not prepare an Initial Study on the of Albatross 6:30 PM, First Tuesday of the month Bob Middagh Trail project. In the words of Richardson Bay Audubon Center the court and CEQA, the OSD “in doing so MILL VALLEY: Sequoia 2, May 5, 6:15 PM 376 Greenwood Beach Road subverted CEQA’s fundamental purpose to SAN RAFAEL: Rafael 3, May 6, 7:30 PM Tiburon, California 94920 provide agencies and the public in general MAS telephone: 721-4271 (for messages only) with detailed information about the effect Shot on Midway, a remote North Pacific Marin Audubon Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) atoll and home to the world’s largest organization. All memberships and contributions which proposed project is likely to have on the are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. environment before deciding to approve the albatross colony, Albatross captures
The Rail is published ten times a year by the project.” Failure to comply with CEQA has extraordinarily intimate footage of the Marin Audubon Society on 100% recycled been a claim in both of our suits against the birds, and features a hauntingly beauti- paper; edited by Bob Hinz [email protected], OSD. After four or five court decisions against ful score. Yet, as the birds feed their 383-8688; assisted by other members of MAS; and designed by Studio NaCl (www.studionacl. the OSD, it and the Supervisors should be young, we learn of a hidden danger that com). Deadline is the first of each month. getting the message that their approach violates implicates us all. Watch the trailer at ©2018 Marin Audubon Society CEQA and is not in the interest of the public. https://vimeo.com/260684528 Website: www.marinaudubon.org We invite and encourage members to attend MAS is a Community Partner in present- Members can receive The Rail electronically our Annual Meeting on May 10. There is still instead of a hard copy by emailing member- a Board opening for a member who can help ing this film. [email protected] with volunteers and our properties. DONATIONS APPRECIATED! Marin Audubon Society welcomes gifts of funds, stock, or property, and bequests in MAS BOAT TRIP ONLINE SIGNUPS BEGIN MONDAY, MAY 14, 2018 general, or in honor or memory of someone. Gifts may be directed to any MAS project. BIRDING ON ALCATRAZ (pavement is often uneven). Bring binoculars Unspecified gifts of more than $500 will be “The Rock” (scopes, too, if you wish) and water; on the island placed in the Endowment Fund for conserva- Thursday, June 14, 2018 snacks are allowed only at the dock. tion, the protection of wildlife species, and the Boat leaves 8:45 AM – Trip ends early PM preservation and enhancement of wildlife habi- The trip will be limited to 25 participants with With Corny Foster & Pauline Yeckley tats. Since MAS is an all-volunteer organization, a cost of $46 for adults and $43.75 for seniors 100% of your donation goes to its projects. All It’s the best-kept birding secret in the Bay Area: for the round-trip boat ride. Regrettably, the boat gifts are tax-deductible and will be acknowl- Alcatraz is one of the most important waterbird operator is no longer offering a discount for groups edged in The Rail, as well as personally on nesting sites in northern California, with nine such as ours. We will depart from Pier 33 on behalf of the Society. Checks should be made species breeding on the island, but not including the 8:45 AM boat. The tour will end in the early out and mailed to: Marin Audubon Society, P.O. pelicans. afternoon. However, after the tour, participants Box 599, Mill Valley, CA 94942. On this trip, Alcatraz Waterbird Docents Corny may continue to explore the island and the Foster and Pauline Yeckley will share an informative prison returning on the boat of their choice. To look beyond the prison culture with a focus on the sign up, register online at www.marinaudubon. natural history of the island and the variety of birds org starting on May 14. BOOK YOUR SPACE ON MISSION STATEMENT and their life histories. We’ll see the birds up close MAY 14 OR SOON THEREAFTER AS OUR BOAT on their nests, parents feeding chicks, territorial TRIPS FREQUENTLY SELL OUT QUICKLY. Include To conserve and restore natural displays, and discuss the general ecology of the the name, email address, and phone number of ecosystems, focusing on birds region’s waterbird populations. This is an excellent each participant. Those confirmed on the trip will and other wildlife and their habitats, opportunity for photographers with many birds only be sent additional information as the trip date a few feet away. approaches. For more information or to be placed for the benefit of humanity and This will be an easy, slow-paced excursion. on a waiting list for this trip, contact Jane Medley the earth’s biological diversity. Dress in layers and comfortable walking shoes at [email protected].
2 THE RAIL LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON MAS FIELD TRIPS No need to sign up for one-day trips, just join us. Bring lunch, snacks, water, field guide, and binoculars. For information, Open to the public accessibility, and weather check: Jane Medley, 559/760-1551, [email protected]. CHECK OUR WEBSITE FOR THE MOST RECENT UPDATES.
THE PONDS AT THE LAS GALLINAS VALLEY KING RIDGE ROAD mecca. This road winds through open oak SANITARY DISTRICT (LGVSD) Sonoma County woodlands, gray pine forest, grasslands, and San Rafael Sunday, May 6, 2018 beautiful chaparral to an altitude of 2,279 Thursday, May 3, 2018 7 AM to 4 PM feet. Bird specialties include Mountain Quail, 8:30 AM to noon With Jeff Miller Bell’s Sparrow, California Thrasher, and With Sande and Bob Chilvers We will spend the day birding remote King Purple Martin. There are also possibilities Beginning birders are especially welcome Ridge Road in Sonoma County, north of the of seeing Lazuli Buntings, Rufous-crowned on the first Thursday of each month for a town of Cazadero. Bird species we will be Sparrows, Western Tanagers and many leisurely walk around the Las Gallinas ponds. looking for include American Dipper, Sooty more spring specialties. Last year our group We will be searching for waterfowl, waders, Grouse, Mountain Quail, Golden Eagle, saw 41 species including a pair of Pileated songbirds, raptors, and shorebirds. Spring is Cassin’s Vireo, Northern Pygmy-Owl, Lark Woodpeckers at their nest hole and 12 Purple now in full swing at the ponds with courting Sparrow, Lazuli Bunting, and a variety of Martins! You may also want to bring some Common Mergansers, displaying Great- wildflower books. tailed Grackles, 12 busily swimming Mallard warblers. Bring plenty of water, lunch, snacks, ducklings, and the season’s first Mute Swan This will be an all-day driving tour of a binoculars and a field guide or app. No cygnet all seen on our April field trip. Our May remote area, and participants will need to be trip should be equally captivating with even prepared to carpool. Make sure you gas up restrooms available. However, the Jimtown more sightings of young birds possible. your vehicle before the trip. We will meet at Store is available at the end of the day. Heavy We welcome bird enthusiasts of all levels. 7:00 a.m. in the town of Duncans Mills at the rain cancels. We all help each other to find and identify the Gold Coast Coffee and Bakery, 23577 DIRECTIONS: Take Hwy 101 north past birds, so come assist in our search. You don’t Steelhead Blvd (38.452908,-123.053056). Healdsburg to the Lytton Springs Rd. Exit even have to arrive on time because we We will depart for Cazadero at 7:30 a.m. toward Alexander Valley. Turn right on spend the first 30 – 60 minutes studying the sharp. Allow approximately 1 hour and 45 Healdsburg Ave. for about 0.7 miles. Turn left birds around the first pond and the group is minutes driving time from Marin. You can get on Alexander Valley Rd for 3.8 miles to Pine easy to find. Heavy rain cancels. coffee and pastries at the bakery but will Flat Rd. Alexander Valley Rd is Hwy 128 at this DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 101, exit at Smith need to bring a lunch and water. There will be point. Not far past the Jimtown Store, Hwy 128 Ranch Rd. Drive east on Smith Ranch Rd no bathrooms or cell service on much of this makes a right angle turn to the south. Go toward McInnis Park. Turn left immediately route. Expect to be back in Duncans Mills straight ahead at this sharp curve to cross after crossing the railroad tracks and drive around 3-4 p.m. over to Pine Flat Rd, which continues east. Be about 0.5 mile through the LGVSD gates For further information about our route, very careful at this intersection. We will meet and into the parking lot at the end of the see Colin Talcroft’s write-up of birding King on the corner of Pine Flat Rd and Red Winery road. Meet the group by the bridge just past Ridge Road: http://colintalcroft.com/ Rd at the bottom of the hill at 8:15 to arrange the parking lot. There is an outhouse in the Sonoma_County_Bird_Watching_Spots/King_ carpools to the Mayacamas. Allow at least 1½ parking area for public use or you can use the Ridge_Road.html. hour from central Marin. bathrooms at nearby McInnis Park. THURSDAY MORNING BIRD SONGS SPRING BIRDS AND THEIR SONGS IN MIWOK MEADOWS FIVE BROOKS CHINA CAMP STATE PARK THE GARDEN Point Reyes National Seashore San Rafael Marin Art & Garden Center Thursday, May 10, 2018 Friday, May 4, 2018 30 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Ross 7:30 AM to noon 8:30 AM to 11:30 AM Saturday, May 14, 2018 With Matt Perry With Lisa Hug 8 to 10:30 AM walk, 10:30 to 11 AM tea Miwok Meadows, on the east side of China Spring is the best time of year to hear and With Meryl Sundove & Roger Harris Camp State Park, is somewhat off the learn bird songs. Males are full of hormones Ever wonder which birds you hear singing in beaten path and under-birded, but it is one and bursting with song. Many Neotropical your yard, garden, and neighborhood? Join of Matt Perry’s favorite regular birding spots. migrants are returning and vying for mates Marin Audubon Society’s Spring Birds and Consisting of a relatively short, easily hiked and territories. It is a very exciting time of Their Songs in the Garden walk and tune into loop, it offers a range of habitats, including year. This walk will require participants to the varied chorus of birds nesting in Marin. the bay, marsh, oak savannah, and denser stay quiet to enable us to listen to the myriad Once you cue into bird songs, the enjoyment woods. Frequent highlights include Osprey, of bird sounds. Bring comfortable walking of spring will be forever heightened. many woodpeckers, turkeys, many swallow shoes, layered clothing, water, binoculars, This bird walk takes place in a beautiful and swift species, and usual woodland field guides and snacks. local garden—the Marin Art and Garden birds. Less common finds on last year’s trip This trip is limited to 15 participants. To Center. The paths slope gently, the plantings included Pileated Woodpecker (2 heard), Blue- sign up, email Jane Medley at janermedley@ are beautiful and varied, attracting a diversity gray Gnatcatcher, and a flyover Bald Eagle. gmail.com. Please include the trip name Rarer birds, but not unheard of, might include of birds, many you might find in your own and your phone number. Participants will garden or neighborhood. both Ridgway’s Rail and Black Rail. In spring be contacted prior to the trip to confirm the trail should be filled with lovely birdsong This slow walk is geared to help beginners registration. A wait list will be created if or others ready to tune their listening skills and bustling activity—and great views of yet registration exceeds available space. another beautiful Marin landscape. to hearing spring bird songs. Come find out Following our walk at Miwok Meadows, we DIRECTIONS: From Fairfax, take Sir Francis what we know about bird song and why birds may cross the street and hike the bay and Drake Blvd approximately 15 miles. Turn left sing in the spring. marsh loop around Turtle Back Hill (.75 miles on Hwy 1. Turn right at Five Brooks in 3.5 After the walk we can sit in the garden easy). We’ll watch for wildlife along this trail, miles. We will meet at the Five Brooks parking and enjoy tea and a treat as we continue which juts out into the salt marsh habitat area. our discussion about birds and their spring along San Pablo Bay. songs. Heavy rain cancels. PINE FLAT ROAD Registration for this walk will be limited DIRECTIONS: Take the Hwy 101 Exit onto Sonoma County North San Pedro Rd. Follow North San Pedro to 16 people due to the nature of the trails. Saturday, May 12, 2018 Rd approximately 2.5 miles to the Miwok Register at http://magc.org/calendar. Scroll 8 AM to 3 PM Meadows Trailhead sign. On the right side of to May 14, click on the trip name, then click the road adjacent to the trailhead, there is a (depending on weather and interest) on the last sentence, “Please register for this self-pay kiosk where you may purchase a Trail- With Lisa Hug free event!.” Only Pass for $3 per person. Exact change is Pine Flat Road is located northeast of needed at this pay station. Healdsburg and has long been a local birding MORE FIELD TRIPS ON PAGES 2 AND 7
LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON MAY 2018 3 Conservation
Marin Audubon Conservation Committee reviews critical issues related to wildlife habitats and comments to cities, agencies, and other jurisdictions. To attend, phone Barbara Salzman at 415/924-6057.
continued from page 1 and restore wildlife habitat including wetland habitat, to benefit fisheries particularly salmon VOTE YES ON PROPOSITION 68 and steelhead, improve river health, restore Marin Audubon recommends a YES vote on or enhance riparian habitat projects that Proposition 68, the California Clean Water improve streamflows and projects that restore and Safe Parks Act, that will be on the June 5 floodplains, provide water for fish and wildlife, ballot. The legislature voted to put this measure restore watersheds, and control invasive plants. (formerly SB 5) on the ballot to provide $4 Partnering with non-governmental organizations billion for water, park and environmental is encouraged. Nearly $30 million is in the bond priorities. Past bond funding for conservation for the Salton Sea enhancement. is running out. Additional funding is critical to California Audubon, which was an early maintain and protect our habitat. supporter of SB 5, points out: “The cycle The bond has something in it for everybody. of drought and extreme weather is already There is substantial funding for (1) park taking a toll on California’s natural treasures, improvements with an emphasis on parks and threatens our communities with flooding in less wealthy communities, (2) state park and ecological degradation. With most of the maintenance and habitat improvement, bond funding for vital conservation programs (3) flood protection, (4) building trails, (5) running out in the last few years, it is time for 13 improving delta levees, (6) water quality, Californians to make the next investment in water supply and watershed protection, and the protection of the natural resources … ” (7) multi-benefit projects that will improve 14 Vote YES on Proposition 68. 10 resilience and adaptation to climate change. Of special interest to Marin Audubon and ANCHOR-OUTS our members is the funding that would go At its March meeting, the Richardson Bay to wildlife and habitat improvement projects Regional Agency (RBRA) declared its intent particularly in the Bay Area. Twenty million to allow the anchor-outs to continue to live dollars will go to the State Coastal Conservancy permanently on the Bay by voting unanimously specifically for San Francisco Bay restoration. for Option #3 of the four options for moving Also available to the Conservancy would be forward presented by RBRA Executive Director $175 million to enhance and protect coastal Beth Pollard. The motion was made by and ocean resources, including $85 million for Supervisor Sears and it was quickly supported the protection of beaches, wetlands, and coastal by the other three Agency members from watersheds resources; twenty-five percent of Tiburon, Mill Valley and Belvedere. There was these Conservancy funds is dedicated to the little discussion and there was no input from Conservancy’s San Francisco Bay Program; the anchor-outs, which probably indicates that $20 million for the protection, restoration, everyone had made up their minds ahead of and improvement of coastal forest watersheds, time. It was especially disturbing that the Board including redwood and other forest types; members congratulated themselves on their MARIN AUDUBON PROPERTIES and $5 million for acquisition of parcels that progress after the vote. This vote is in no way 1. Petaluma Marsh 180 acres will allow for protection and restoration of progress to ensure protection of Richardson 2. Bahia 60 acres coastal dune, wetland, upland and forest Bay natural resources or abiding by existing 3. Simmons Slough 144 acres habitats associated with estuarine lagoons and ordinances and laws. 4. Norton Avenue Pond 4 parcels designated wildlife areas. Option 3 includes requirements for vessels 5. Black Point Parcels 2 parcels Other natural resource funding will go such as possessing a valid registration, regis- 6. Arroyo San Jose 2 parcels to the Department of Fish and Wildlife to tering with the harbormaster, and mooring 7. Tidelands at 34 acres Murphy’s Rock reduce the backlog of much-needed habitat securely, which is intended to address concerns 8. Corte Madera Marsh 1.8 acres maintenance on their own properties, and to about safety and eelgrass by preventing vessels 9. Triangle Marsh 31 acres restore natural aquatic functions or wetlands from breaking loose. Also included are criteria 10. San Clemente Creek 4.34 acres habitat for birds and threatened species through for monitoring to prevent damage from drag- 11. Tiscornia Marsh 20 acres voluntary agreements with governments and ging of anchors and to prevent the release of 12. Arroyo Corte Madera 2 acres non-governmental agencies. debris, sewage and other polluting substances. del Presidio One-hundred thirty seven million dollars None of these requirements are new. They are 13. Cal Park <1 acre will be available to the Wildlife Conservation all called for in existing ordinances, policies and 14. Corte Madera Ecological 5.2 acres Board for projects to protect and restore regulations. Reserve Expansion Site wildlife corridors, promote the recovery of Further demonstrating the intent to allow threatened and endangered species, improve anchor-outs to stay, Option 3 suggests that
4 THE RAIL LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON further actions could establish a maximum BOB MIDDAGH TRAIL SUIT WON safety risks to non-bike users when making number of dinghies and vessels per owner BY COMMUNITY its initial study and other determinations and modify the length of stay in the Bay. A community group, Community Venture because these are legitimate concerns arising The allowable length of stay is already Partners, has won its law suit against the from the planned improvements and the established in ordinances. County for its approval of a project to improve increased use of the trail that would occur A suggested action provides that the Bob Middagh Trail on multiple causes, with bikes using the trails. Further, the amendments to RBRA ordinances and/or one of which was a California Environmental court found that the District improperly other plans and policies “may be required”. Quality Act (CEQA) claim that was very failed to score various proposals submitted There is no doubt about it. If the RBRA similar to our case on the Contour Trail by the public that did not conform to its sticks to pursuing only Option 3, they and on the current Hunt Camp Trail. The own evaluation methodology and that this are out of compliance with existing laws. project included various improvements such constitutes an abuse of discretion. They will need to change their approach or as opening the trail to bikes and widening This judicial decision is further validation change the laws. and straightening the trail. that the OSD needs to change its decision- The disadvantages to Option 3 noted in Judge Haakenson required that the making process and comply with state law the staff report are the resources needed to decision be set aside and ordered the Open and that the Supervisors need to direct them draft, vet, modify, implement and enforce Space District (OSD) to conduct a proper to do so. regulations and the impacts to inhabitants CEQA analysis. The court agreed with the FIRST ROUND OF GRANTS FROM who are unwilling or unable to comply and, Petitioner that the county violated CEQA MEASURE AA ANNOUNCED interestingly, “impacts on the bay and/or shore by not conducting the required Initial Study The first round of grants from Measure AA facilities from continued extended stay use.” before approving the project. funds will distribute $23.5 million to nine The last point recognizes that adverse impacts Although the details differ, the basic of the 23 applicants from around the Bay. to the Bay will result from this option. CEQA issue is the same as in our two For Marin, a $650,000 grant will go to It is further recognized that all of the suits, i.e., that the county failed to follow Marin County for flood control and habitat options would require vetting and review with procedures required by CEQA, procedures projects in North Marin around Deer Island agencies having authority over Richardson that are intended to ensure decision-makers and $2.5 million for Bel Marin Keys. Other Bay. They will also have to face legal review, and the public are informed before projects North Bay projects include $150,000 to which we may have to bring to bear. are approved and construction begins. The the Sonoma Land Trust for planning for Other options that were rejected are: OSD used the same approach as with the Sonoma Creek and $2.5 million to Point Option 1, Enforcing Existing Time Limits Hunt Camp Trail: producing a Consistency Blue for transition zone restoration, a – the option MAS supported; Option 2, Assessment after it had already made its portion of which will be spent in San Rafael Managing Vessels Arriving in Richardson Bay decision to proceed with the project without near Tiscornia Marsh. – the RBRA should be doing this now and preparing an Initial Study. Measure AA, the regional measure for should have been doing it for the last 30 years; Other claims supported by the court wetland restoration in the San Francisco Bay and Option 4, Eliminating the Anchorage – were that the county must evaluate the watershed, was approved by Bay Area voters this would require federal action. reasonably foreseeable social effects and last year.
Marin County Celebrates Year of the Bird On April 24, the Marin County Board to adhering to all laws and regulation that of Supervisors gave a life-saving gift to protect the nation’s native birds including Marin County nesting bird populations the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, California by adopting a resolution Recognizing Fish and Game Code, the Endangered
“World Migratory Bird Day” on May 12. Species Act and Bald and Golden Eagle flickr.com Schmierer, Alan The Resolution celebrated both World Protection Act. Whimbrels, one of the many migratory Migratory Bird Day, which is held each year The impetus for the Resolution came species in Marin on the second Saturday in May, and the from concerns from citizens about agencies 100 year anniversary of the Migratory Bird cutting roadside vegetation during nesting izing and pollinating plants, distributing Treaty Act. And it does even more. season, and the resulting destruction of active seeds, cleaning up carrion and controlling The Resolution recognizes the important nests. The Environmental Action Committee rodents and mosquitoes, and points out functions birds play in our world and that of West Marin took up the issue with other that bird populations are under tremendous their populations are declining. It not organizations and Supervisor Dennis Rodoni threat from many sources. Birds are valuable only urges citizens to celebrate the day by who convened a meeting with county for scientific study, are valuable indicators supporting efforts to protect migratory departments (Parks and Public Works) and of the health of our environment, and, of birds, their nests and their habitats, it also other agencies that engage in vegetation course, Audubon members are aware of the encourages all agencies to assure that their clearing for various reasons, PG&E and enjoyment that can be gained from observ- adopted policies, regulations and operating Caltrans. The effort eventually led to ing birds. procedures avoid negative impacts to formation and adoption of the Resolution. This Resolution will be an important nesting birds and their habitats. MAS’s letter of support emphasizes many tool to advocate for protection of birds and The Resolution commits the county services birds provide for us including fertil- their habitats in the future.
LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON MAY 2018 5 HABITAT STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM Habitat Stewardship Italian thistles will be maturing but it isn’t too late to cut into their seed Volunteers led by Jude Stalker removed all the invasive sea lavender that they could find in the production. It also will be a good Corte Madera Ecological Reserve time to cut Harding grass before it produces seed. Later in the summer we can dig it out. Before the heat of summer we can mulch some of our highly invasive plant. On the second Sunday new plants. All of these stewardship the volunteers managed to finish the last of the activities are opportunities for sea lavender. Thanks to all who helped. community service no matter how old or young you are. BAHIA Act locally and join us on a We are intensifying our efforts to protect workday. Come out into the early Bahia’s eastern peninsula for wildlife. spring air. Witness restoration first- hand and be a part of it. We all Stalker Jude In the light of the damage to fencing we make a difference. have installed to block access to the eastern We have the tools, gloves and CORTE MADERA RESTORATION peninsula, we will be increasing our efforts to snacks. We generally work until PROJECT more effectively protect this peninsula from about 1 PM, but even an hour is visitors, many of whom have dogs—usually valuable help. Everyone is welcome. We had a successful visit by our major fund- Bring a friend. ing agencies, folks from the National Coastal off-leash. We are planning to install more secure Wetlands Conservation Grant Program fencing and establish an outreach effort. For the VOLUNTEER WORK DAYS that awarded us the funding to restore the educational outreach we will need volunteers. Triangle Marsh, East Corte Madera: endangered species habitat, the State Coastal If you can spare a few hours to help reach First Saturdays: May 5, June 10 Conservancy and the San Francisco Bay Joint out to users to inform them of the purpose Meet at 10 AM on Paradise Venture. We toured the restored tidal area and and need for keeping the eastern peninsula Drive directly across from the main closed to recreational users, please email Ring Mountain trailhead near the adjacent transition zone that we have planted Montessori School. with grasses and shrubs that will grow to pro- [email protected]. Note that restricting Bahia, Novato: vide refugia habitat for the Ridgway’s Rails. the eastern peninsula for wildlife is in our Monthly workdays are continuing but We were very pleased to see that some of the regulatory agency permits and our agreement on a more irregular schedule. If you native grass seeds we distributed by hydroseed- with the Homeowners Association. would like to help, please contact ing were now sprouting. After the long, dry We’re planning for the Conservation Corps Jude at [email protected]. period in February we feared everything had North Bay to again help remove some of the Limonium Removal died. It seems that the rains at the end of March invasive species on this large 62-acre property At various locations in southern enabled the seeds to germinate. And, we were that we own at Bahia. Marin Jude Stalker will be leading volunteers in pulling invasive, non- also pleased to see that, after being munched TRIANGLE MARSH by jack rabbits, the native grass plugs were also native Limonium (sea lavender) On the first Saturday of April volunteers pulled for several more weeks. For growing back. The agency folks had no objec- and dug most of the Italian thistle and a few more information contact Jude at tion to the cyclone fence along our western of the other non-native plants on the eastern [email protected]. boundary, recognizing its importance to protect half of the upland. With the apparent success THANK YOU TO OUR the endangered species and the newly restored of last year’s sheet-mulching by Boy Scouts, the STEWARDSHIP VOLUNTEERS marsh plain and upland habitat in an area that Scouts are coming again at press time to sheet- Debbie Ablin, Lance Carnes, Leif has been used for many years for public access. mulch another section where native plants will Clark, Bob Hinz, Sharon McCloskey, Until the habitats have had time to settle in Linda Nicoletto, Lucienne O’Keefe, be started next winter. Nancy Raga, Maxwell Shearer, Jude and the plants have had time to grow, the land Stalker, Lowell Sykes, Ann Thomas, without a fence would be wide open for people Marla Ulrich, Kenji Yamamoto to walk through the newly planted habitat which would destroy the very plants we are try- Celebrate World Migratory ing to grow and would continue to damage and Bird Day – May 12 and 13 THANKS FOR YOUR DONATIONS destroy habitat and disturb wildlife as they did Autodesk Foundation (employee before our project. We cannot let that happen. World Migratory Bird Day celebrates match), Janice Bennett, Leslie Brown, As we go to press, Town, motivated by some of and brings attention to one of the most Daniel & Lee Drake, Robert and its residents, is pushing hard to have us reduce important and spectacular events in Michelle Friend, Roger Harris, Lorraine Johnson, William and Katherine the height of the fence. We are concerned that the Americas—bird migration. Do your Jones, PG&E Corporation Foundation a lower fence would allow more folks to access part to help conserve birds. Write a (Richard Jennings), Catherine Plevin, the property. Now the residents are complain- letter to support protection of bird Kenneth Smith & Lucia Christopher ing about our berm. habitat, plant a native plant, put out We’re pleased that there are volunteers who water, clean your bird feeders, keep have been working to remove the non-native cats indoors or make your windows WELCOME NEW MEMBERS sea lavender (Limonium ramosissimum) in the Janet Ekberg, Gena Galenski, Noah Ecological Reserve. Led by Jude Stalker, 12 more visible to prevent birds from Pollaczek, Sonoma Country volunteers worked the first and second Sundays colliding with them. Antigues, Jerry & Ruth Ann Thacker of April to remove extensive patches of this
6 THE RAIL LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON Marin Birdlog: March 2018 By Noah Arthur
While most of North America remains in winter’s frozen grip, March is the month for spring migrant and breeding bird arrivals in Marin and elsewhere on the California coast. Some winter waterbirds are also around too, such as the Northern Fulmar that arced past Muir Beach heading north on the 4th of this March (JW). Just beyond our area, two Fulmars also flew by Bodega Head on the 5th, perhaps part of a small inshore incursion of the species (TB). There were either few rare birds, few active birders, or Common Poorwill both during the first half of the month, because the next Dominic Sherony Dominic good report doesn’t come until the 15th, with a female Wilson’s Warbler Eurasian Wigeon on Richardson Bay (JC). Females of this uncommon to rare duck are not only [email protected] Tepke, Glen much more difficult to identify than males but are thought to be genuinely rarer than males on this continent, due to males’ tendency to wander farther from their birthplaces. Another nice winter duck sighting was three Long-tailed Ducks, two females and a male, off Rodeo Beach on the 20th (WL). An uncommon to rare spring arrival was a Least Bittern at Las Gallinas on the 23rd (CL), perhaps a bird that will breed there this season. The first Hooded Oriole of the season in Marin visited a Novato backyard (near Bahia) on the 24th (ML). Another first-of-season were two calling Common Poorwills at Tennessee Valley on the 26th (CL). The long-stayingBlack Vulture that has wandered the North Bay for the last several years floated over Inverness on the 26th (SA). More spring migrants began to arrive toward the end of the month, with the season’s first Marin reports of Cassin’s Vireo, Wilson’s Warbler, and Pacific-slope Flycatcher in San Geronimo Valley Norther Fulmar Wikimedia, “Avenue” Wikimedia, on the 30th (LH).
Observers and Acronyms CL: Calvin Lou, JC: Josiah Clark, JW: Jim White, LH: Luanna Helfman, ML: Margareta Luff,SA : Scott Anderson, TB: Tony Briggs, WL: William Legge
MAS FIELD TRIPS (continued from page 3)
THURSDAY MORNING BIRD SONGS opportunities to look at birds and spring we invite you to picnic with us at the tables Big Rock Trailhead to Loma Alta Trail wildflowers. Wear comfortable walking shoes located at the head of the trail. Thursday, May 17, 2018 and layered clothing. Bring water and snacks. Youth birders are encouraged to join our 7:30 AM to noon We will meet at the end of San Andreas Drive group. Bring water, snacks, and binoculars. With Lisa Hug in Novato. Heavy rain cancels. DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 101, take the Hwy. 1/ For a description of this trip, see the write up DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 101 in Novato take the Stinson Beach exit. Turn left onto Shoreline Hwy on page 3 for Thursday Morning Bird Songs at San Marin Drive/Atherton Avenue exit. Go west at the traffic light. Turn left on Tennessee Valley Five Brooks scheduled for May 10, 2018 on San Marin Drive for approximately 2 miles Rd in 0.3 mile. We will meet at the parking lot at This outing is also limited to 15 and then turn right on San Andreas Drive. Drive the end of the road. participants. To sign up, email Jane Medley at nearly to the end of the road. Park on the street. [email protected]. Please include the No restrooms available. PHOENIX LAKE trip name and your phone number. Participants San Anselmo will be contacted prior to the trip to confirm TENNESSEE VALLEY Friday, June 1, 2018 registration. A wait list will be created if Marin Headlands 9 AM to 1:30 PM registration exceeds available spaces. Sunday, May 20, 2018 With Kurt Rademacher DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 101 in San Rafael, take 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM The Yolanda and Hidden Valley Trails offer the exit for Lucas Valley Rd west approximately With Vicens Vila & Jim White a casual 3½-mile loop through a variety of 5.5 miles (look for the big rock). The trailhead is Named after the S.S. Tennessee, a steamship habitats to observe late spring bird life. Our on the south side of Lucas Valley Rd. that beached at the foot of the valley in 1853 route explores Oak-Madrone woodlands, while carrying hundreds of passengers and open grassy slopes and chaparral along the MOUNT BURDELL/STAFFORD LAKE chests of gold, Tennessee Valley offers both lower slopes of Bald Hill, and returns through OR RUSH CREEK a historically and ecologically rich walk to the Redwood forests, riparian woodlands and along No. 5, Birding in Marin (BIM) Series Pacific Ocean. the shores of Phoenix Lake. Join our group as Saturday, May 19, 2018 Join youth birder, Vicens Vila, now a senior we search this diverse landscape for resident 8:30 AM to mid-afternoon at Redwood High School, and Jim White for and migratory birds. Bring lunch & fluids, and With Jim White and Bob Battagin a leisurely walk along the Tennessee Valley be prepared for sun and shade, plus a couple Join Jim and Bob for a field trip to the gentle trail at the height of the nesting season. of moderately steep trail sections. slopes of Mr. Burdell where we’ll listen to and As we walk down to the beach through both DIRECTIONS: As parking at the Phoenix Lake observe the impressive variety of songbirds riparian and chaparral habitats, we hope to trailhead in Natalie Coffin Greene Park is that make this area their springtime home. see a variety of passerines and possible extremely limited, we will meet 0.4 mile from We might see Lark Sparrow, Ash-throated migrants including Black-headed Grosbeak, there at the junction of Glenwood Ave. and Flycatcher, Bullock’s Oriole, Lazuli Bunting, Cedar Waxwings, Orange-crowned and, with Lagunitas Rd in Ross, outside the Lagunitas and Grasshopper Sparrow, among many some luck, MacGillivray’s Warblers, Swainson’s Country Club. From Hwy 101 drive westward on other possibilities. In the afternoon we plan Thrushes, Warbling Vireos, Pacific-slope Sir Francis Drake Blvd about 2.5 miles. At the to continue birding at either Stafford Lake or Flycatchers, and more. At the beach, Pelagic Marin Art & Garden Center turn left onto Rush Creek. and Brandt’s Cormorants, Common Murres, Lagunitas Rd at the traffic light. Proceed 0.75 This will be a moderate hike with many and Pigeon Guillemots are likely. Afterwards, mile to the junction with Glenwood.
LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON MAY 2018 7 SAVE THE DATE May 5–6 Film: Albatross See page 2 June 1 Field Trip: Phoenix Lake With Kurt Rademacher June 7 Field Trip: Las Gallinas With Sande & Bob Chilvers June 9 Field Trip: Return of the Terns in Alameda With East Bay Regional Parks June 10 Field Trip: Muddy Hollow With Bob Atwood June 14 Boat Trip: Nesting Birds on Alcatraz With Corny Foster & Pauline Yeckley June 15–17 Mono Basin Bird Chautauqua www.birdchautauqua.org June 16 Field Trip: Big Rock & Las Gallinas With Jim White & Bob Battagin Check website for updates and details
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8 MAY 2018 LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON