SPEAKER SERIES Newsletter of the Marin Audubon Society. Vol. 61, No. 02 October 2018 Free and Open to the public Richardson Bay Audubon Center 376 Greenwood Beach Road, Tiburon Information: 415/789-0703

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 11 7:30 PM Eelgrass Conservation and Waterbirds in Richardson Bay By Julia Kelly The MARIN AUDUBONRail SOCIETY New Acquisition at Norton Pond Julia Kelly Julia Herring eggs and eelgrass

Seagrasses are one of the most productive ecosystems in the world, but human nearshore impacts have reduced their global distribu- tion by >29% since the twentieth century. Common eelgrass (Zostera marina), a native seagrass found in San Francisco Bay, provides spawning habitat for fish in addition to food resources for birds that migrate along the Pacific Flyway. San Francisco Bay is home to the largest expanse of eelgrass beds in California, and is therefore a

conservation priority for Audubon. Bob Hinz This talk will discuss threats to eel- Black-crowned Night-Herons at Norton Pond in Black Point grass, herring, and waterbirds in San Francisco Bay and the opportunities e’re thrilled to announce that we of a parcel along Norton Pond as one of the six for conservation. To highlight the are in the process of acquiring yet other tax defaulted Black Point parcels meant need for eelgrass protection within another parcel along Norton Pond, we owned all but one parcel - this one - to Wa small pond on Norton Avenue in Black Point. complete protection of the whole pond habitat. Richardson Bay, a case study of eelgrass damage in Richardson Bay The parcel is being donated by owners Renee Norton Pond holds water year-round. Birds will be presented. and Thomas Leech. They want only that we seem always to be present in small numbers, Julia Kelly, PhD, is the San pay the property taxes owed currently. because it is a small pond. Species often seen Francisco Bay Conservation Program We are grateful to the Leeches for their include: American Avocet, Black-necked Stilt, Manager for Audubon California. Julia wonderful donation that, after the paper work Greater Yellowlegs, , Northern Shoveler specializes in avian ecology and leads is completed, will mean we own the whole and Black-crowned Night-herons. Audubon’s waterbird program and pond and all of the surrounding parcels. It Any neighbors or others who would like to restoration projects in the estuary. will probably take another month before the volunteer to help improve the vegetative habitat sale goes through. Our most recent purchase along its banks, please let us know.

Conservation transportation needs and the environmental IN THIS ISSUE health of the region. As stated in the letter: Conservation Report 1 and 4 HIGHWAY 37 UPDATE “We recommend that Caltrans, as the lead agency for NEPA, consider the entirety of the President’s Message 2 The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has submitted comments to Caltrans SR (State Route) corridor, from US 101 to SR Field Trips 3 that, fortunately, mirror input they provided 29/interstate 80, when analyzing regional and Habitat Stewardship 6 back in 1994. As stated in the EPA’s 1994 local solutions for the SR 37 corridor. Focusing letter, the purpose of the comments is to on a solution for only Segment B of SR37 may Birdlog 7 provide early feedback to assist in analyzing and preclude the consideration of alternatives for designing alternatives that would both meet the continued on page 4

LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON OCTOBER 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 During the coming month we plan to finish expressed fear of being attacked by . Vice President Lowell Sykes 388-2821 several projects we’ve had in the works for a These are emotional issues and the outcome Secretary Everett Clark 789-9224 long time. After more than a year of planning, could be positive or negative for the elk and Treasurer Susan Winston 949/632-0908 we are about to complete revisions to our coyotes. Our Conservation Committee will Conservation Phil Peterson 828-4780 brochure. It will be the same format, but have be taking up these and other issues at our Barbara Salzman 924-6057 new photos and updated text. We will also September meeting. Field Trips Jane Medley 559/760-1551 be revising the Junior Birdwatchers program Congrats to folks who have been able to Membership William Legge 388-7883 which is a program for elementary school sign up for the “Origin of Birds” lecture series children to learn about birds. MAS took over Outreach Elyse Omernick 694-2320 which had great success for Golden Gate Fundraising Everett Clark 789-9224 more than eleven years ago when National Audubon decided not to continue it at the Audubon. There are still some spaces avail- Speaker Series Lowell Sykes 388-2821 Richardson Bay Audubon Center. We will able. This is one among other workshops and Special Projects Jude Stalker 680-6291 be having the software updated so that it will lectures, that we hope members have noticed Nominating Bob Hinz, 383-8688 function properly on the computer, and will we are providing, thanks to Jane Medley who is Editor, The Rail Bob Hinz, 383-8688 update some text and photos. How long this arranging these special offerings. Website Barbara Freitas 497-4705 project will take will probably depend on how Another special happening during Property Management Ed Nute 669-7710 many photos we decide should be replaced September and October in Marin is the Publicity Barbara Freitas 497-4705 because the current ones are not up to current spectacle of the Vaux’s Swifts at McNear Brick BAAC Reps Lowell Sykes 388-2821 standards, and we will have to find replace- & Block along Point San Pedro Road. If Barbara Salzman 924-6057 ments. Generous donations from our members you haven’t seen it yet you are missing a real DIRECTORS MEETINGS have made it possible for us to move forward phenomenon. Thousands of birds funnel into Meetings open to members. If you wish to with these updates. the unused tall chimneys to rest for the night attend please call 924-6057. Several major issues concerning the fate of during migration. Usually the best time to go is 6:30 PM, First Tuesday of the month various wildlife species in the County, Tule Elk the hour before sunset. Richardson Bay Audubon Center and Coyotes, have come to the fore over the 376 Greenwood Beach Road Our Fall Message: Now is the time to do past month or so. Congressman Jared Huffman Tiburon, California 94920 trimming, pruning and clearing of vegetation has introduced a bill to protect ranchers at MAS telephone: 721-4271 (for messages only) Point Reyes National Seashore by requiring in your garden. Nesting season is over and the Marin Audubon Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) the elk to be fenced out of ranchlands. A risk to nestlings has passed. Be attentive to your organization. All memberships and contributions small group of people spoke against coyotes low-growing, understory plants and shrubs are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. September 11 at the Board of Supervisors away from your house. These plants are often The Rail is published ten times a year by the meeting during open time and have generated targeted for removal for fire danger but they Marin Audubon Society on 100% recycled some articles in the local press. Some speak- are important habitats for ground-feeding and paper; edited by Bob Hinz [email protected], ers wanted their cats and dogs to roam free nesting species. Away from the buffer for your 383-8688; assisted by other members of MAS; without risk from coyotes, and several people house keep as much as you can. and designed by Studio NaCl (www.studionacl. com). Deadline is the first of each month.

©2018 Marin Audubon Society BIRDS IN FLIGHT PHOTO WORKSHOP

Website: www.marinaudubon.org Members can receive The Rail electronically Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District bringing a spare fully-charged camera battery instead of a hard copy by emailing member- Classroom, San Rafael and a notebook. [email protected] Wednesday, October 10, 2018 Our workshop leader will be MAS member 8:15 AM to noon and Marin native Dave Strauss, www. DONATIONS APPRECIATED! With Dave Strauss dscomposition.com. If you have questions Marin Audubon Society welcomes gifts of about the workshop content, prerequisites, funds, stock, or property, and bequests in This is a workshop for those who wish to general, or in honor or memory of someone. improve their photographs of BIRDS IN FLIGHT. camera, lenses, etc., please contact Dave Gifts may be directed to any MAS project. We’ll begin the workshop in a classroom directly, [email protected] or Unspecified gifts of more than $500 will be setting discussing equipment, camera settings 510/612-6109. placed in the Endowment Fund for conserva- and techniques—then move outside to shoot The cost is $20 for MAS Chapter-Supporting tion, the protection of wildlife species, and the photos for awhile—and later return to the members and $55 for all others. Please be preservation and enhancement of wildlife habi- classroom to look at them and learn from our prepared to pay with cash or a check at the tats. Since MAS is an all-volunteer organization, results. workshop. Credit cards will not be accepted. If 100% of your donation goes to its projects. All This is not a beginning photography class. you are not a MAS Chapter-Supporting member, gifts are tax-deductible and will be acknowl- you may sign up now at www.marinaudubon. edged in The Rail, as well as personally on You should be comfortable with your camera and familiar with its controls, and have at org or at the workshop in order to enjoy the behalf of the Society. Checks should be made reduced price. out and mailed to: Marin Audubon Society, P.O. least some previous experience photographing Signups for this workshop will be limited to Box 599, Mill Valley, CA 94942. birds or other wildlife. You should be generally familiar with these terms: aperture, shutter 15 participants. To sign up, please contact speed, ISO, focus, and depth-of-field. Jeanine Starritt at [email protected]. Please bring your digital camera and a Include your name and phone number. We will MISSION STATEMENT zoom or prime lens of at least 300mm (or confirm your registration, and if the workshop fills, we will accept names for a waiting list. To conserve and restore natural equivalent of 300mm on a crop frame camera). ecosystems, focusing on birds If you don’t own such a lens, we recommend DIRECTIONS: See the directions for the borrowing or renting one and experimenting October 4 Las Gallinas field trip. Our class will and other wildlife and their habitats, with it prior to the workshop. Tripods are meet in the building by the bridge across from for the benefit of humanity and optional but very nice to have. We suggest the parking lot. the earth’s biological diversity.

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.

FALL MIGRANTS & VAGRANTS 18 species having been seen in Octobers our guide. Scott is somewhat new to birding, Point Reyes National Seashore past. Expect early waterfowl and maybe but as a resident of the Inner Sunset for Wednesday, October 3, 2018 some late vagrants. If time and interest two years he has gotten to know his local 8:30 AM to mid-afternoon allow, we may extend to Ellis Creek. patch well. We will meet in front of the San With Peter Colasanti DIRECTIONS: Going north on Hwy 101 from Francisco Botanical Garden at 8 AM (no We will meet Peter at White House Pool and Marin, take the second Petaluma exit, which charge for admission prior to 9 AM.) and bird the area as the group gathers. Our plan is Route 116 (Lakeville Hwy). Go east about explore its micro-habitats, which include an for the day will depend on what birds have one mile to South McDowell Blvd (4th traffic array of residents (e.g., the Red-shouldered been seen in the area. Point Reyes has light) and turn right. Take the third right onto ), migrants (3-4 different species of proven to be one of the greatest migrant Cader Lane and park in the lot at the end. warblers), and the occasional vagrant. traps on our continent with more than half Around 10 AM we will walk about 0.5 of all North American birds (at least 502 ABBOTTS LAGOON miles to Stow Lake where we can expect species) seen there. We will probably focus No. 10, Birding in Marin Series to see similar species with the addition of on birding at Chimney Rock, Drakes Beach, Saturday, October 20, 2018 waterfowl and . This will be followed and the Mendoza and Nunes Ranches. Come 8:30 AM to 3 PM by a walk to the top of Strawberry Hill help us find something rare and unexpected. With Jim White and Bob Battagin where we plan to eat lunch and take in the Recent birders in these areas have not been This month Jim and Bob will explore spectacular surrounding views. The total disappointed. No pressure, Peter! Abbotts Lagoon in the Point Reyes National distance for our trip will be approximately 4 DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 101 in Larkspur, Seashore, one of Marin’s premier birding miles. take the Sir Francis Drake exit 20.4 miles to locations. In fact, a cumulative eBird DIRECTIONS: The botanical garden is located Olema. Turn right onto Hwy 1 and go 2 miles. checklist for this area totals 282 species! in Golden Gate Park near the corner of 9th Before the green bridge, turn left (continuing Fall migration south along the Pacific Ave. and Lincoln Way. We will meet at the on Sir Francis Drake Blvd.) and drive 0.7 Coast brings many birds to this place: Main Gate entrance near 9th Ave. Scott mile. Look for the White House Pool sign and and geese, shorebirds, raptors, even recommends parking on Lincoln Ave. parking lot on the right. sparrows and pipits. Tufted , Greater (anywhere between 7th and 10th Aves.) since White-fronted Goose, Baird’s Sandpiper, it is free all day on weekends. Be sure to lock THE PONDS AT THE LAS GALLINAS VALLEY , Clay-colored Sparrow, your car and don’t leave any valuables in it. SANITARY DISTRICT (LGVSD) and American Pipit are a few of the birds we For more detailed directions and parking San Rafael may find. We will get a look at this migration options, consult the San Francisco Botanical Thursday, October 4, 2018 and many of the birds that stay for the Garden website at www.sfbotanicalgarden. 8:30 AM to noon – Note earlier starting time winter. This should be an excellent field trip org/visit/directions.html. With Sande and Bob Chilvers promising to provide good exercise with a Beginning birders are especially welcome minimum of about 4 miles of walking. SAN FRANCISCO BAY BOAT TRIP on the first Thursday of each month for DIRECTIONS: Allow about an hour and a half Departs from Berkeley Marina a leisurely walk around the Las Gallinas travel time from San Rafael. Follow Sir Sunday, November 18, 2018 ponds. Join our skilled leaders as we search Francis Drake Blvd (SFDB) to Olema. From 9 AM to 4 PM for waterfowl, waders, songbirds, raptors and Olema continue north on Hwy 1, take the Registration begins October 1, 2018 shorebirds. With fall migration underway, we second left turn onto SFDB, continue through With John Klobas and Sarah Brooks are likely to spot new arrivals and maybe Inverness, and turn right (north) onto Pierce The San Francisco Bay complex, one of the even a rare, unexpected migrant. Northern Point Road. Drive 3.4 miles until you come to Pintail, Northern Shoveler, Yellow Warbler, largest and most important estuaries along the Abbotts Lagoon parking lot on the left the Pacific Flyway, is located in our backyard and a large number (12) of White-tailed Kite where our group will gather. were spotted on our September walk. but remains relatively unvisited. Our We welcome bird enthusiasts of all levels. appreciation of the dynamics of the bay can BODEGA BAY change dramatically in the course of a day We all help each other to find and identify Friday, October 26, 2018 the birds, so come assist in our search. We from a new perspective on the water. Join 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM John Klobas and his daughter Sarah Brooks have been informed by the manager at the With Lisa Hug Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District that for a memorable day as we cruise the bay construction work in the area will begin soon, Join us at Bodega Bay during the fall with Ronn Patterson of Dolphin Charters in necessitating a change in the meeting place migration when just about anything can search of natural and cultural history, birds, and route for our monthly walks, probably happen. This area has been particularly and marine mammals. beginning in November. Check the MAS action-packed with unusual sightings Fall is the season of mild weather and website and our November newsletter for the recently, so our trip will surely be interesting. calm water on the bay as we cruise by latest information on this scheduled work. We’ll meet at Port O’ Bodega at 8:30 AM. ten islands, under two bridges, and up We will make some stops for shorebirds DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 101, exit at Smith two creeks in four counties in search of Ranch Rd. Drive east on Smith Ranch Rd. and then move on to Canyon, Sonoma migrating and resident waterfowl, waterbirds, toward McInnis Park. Turn left immediately County’s premier vagrant trap. Next will shorebirds, and marine mammals that call after crossing the railroad tracks and drive be a sea watch at Bodega Head. From the the bay’s habitats home. For a complete about 0.5 mile through the LGVSD gates Head we’ll return clockwise around Bodega description of all the bay landmarks we’ll and into the parking lot at the end of the Harbor with likely stops at Campbell Cove, be cruising past, read the online trip road. Meet the group by the bridge just past Owl Canyon again, Porto Bodega and lastly description at www.marinaudubon.org. the parking lot. There is an outhouse in the at Doran Park ($7 entrance fee) where we The cost will be $110 per person parking area for public use or you can use sometimes find Snowy Plovers. for Marin Audubon Chapter-Supporting the bathrooms at nearby McInnis Park. DIRECTIONS: Head north on Highway 1 from Members and $145 for all others. the town of Bodega Bay. Continue past the Registration will be limited to 25 people. If SHOLLENBERGER PARK, Petaluma fire station and the Tides’ Wharf in Bodega you are not yet a Marin Audubon Chapter- Sunday, October 14, 2018 Bay. Turn left on Eastshore Road and head Supporting Member, please sign up now 8:30 AM to 1 PM downhill to the port. at www.marinaudubon.org to enjoy the With Peter Colasanti reduced cost of this trip. Include the name, With over 230 species recorded, SAN FRANCISCO BOTANICAL GARDEN email address, and phone number of each Shollenberger Park is one of the major Golden Gate Park participant. We recommend that you sign birding hotspots in the North Bay. “It’s like Sunday, October 28, 2018 up for this trip ASAP as our boat trips Las Gallinas without the sewage,” says our 8 AM to 2 PM usually sell out quickly. Those confirmed leader, Peter. Thanks to last winter’s ample With Scott Goldberg on the trip will receive directions to the rainfall there’s still water in the central pond, Join us to explore some birding hot spots Berkeley Marina and other instructions prior a typical high tide roost for shorebirds with in eastern Golden Gate Park with Scott as to the trip.

LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON OCTOBER 2018 3 Conservation THANKS FOR YOUR DONATIONS Bud Alderson, Julia Althoff, Arntz Marin Audubon Conservation Committee reviews critical issues related to wildlife habitats and comments to cities, Family Foundation, Janet Arrigotti, agencies, and other jurisdictions. To attend, phone Barbara Salzman at 415/924-6057. Robert Atwood, Holly A. Bacuzzi, Mark & Beverly Birnbaum, Judy & H. Spencer Bloch, Greg & Giselle Block, continued from page 1 Fairfax Creeks by removing obstructions Carl Blom, Andrew Bollen, Dr. transportation solutions in the project area as that attenuate flows, specifically by removing Benjamin Bonnlander, Barbara it will dictate the beginning and endpoint of buildings along the creek in downtown San Boucke, John Bowers, Dewitt a future roadway design immediately to the Anselmo to increase the capacity of the creek. Bowman, Mary Lou Brown, Priscilla & east and west of Segment B. A programmatic This project is the first phase of a larger Michael H. Bull, California Alpine Club analysis assessing broad regional alternatives project that includes improving several bridges Foundation, Steve Capper, Everett and ultimately defining a corridor to focus on and will include additional as-yet-undefined Clark, James Cleaves, Kate & Jeffrey would help in assessing the benefits and adverse project(s) downstream. It is important because Colin, Doug Cook, Carol Moeller impacts of regional solutions.” it is a beginning that would protect a large Costa, Carroll Covey, John Crawford, The August 31, 2018 letter supports this segment of the community that has suffered Susan Cumming, Ann Donovan, position by pointing out that more than significant flooding in recent years. Lillian B. Dreyer, Elaine & Robert $100 million has been invested in restoring Concerns MAS raised in our comments on Drude, Roger Duba, Timothy Erdman, tidal baylands in the region, and advises the Draft EIR focused on natural resources. A Richard & Joyce Finley, Mary Anne coordination with three federal agencies on summary of MAS’s major concerns, the EIR Flett, Barbara Ford, Lewis National Environmental Policy Act and the responses and our ongoing issues is below: Fredrickson, Richard & Luisiana Gale, Clean Water Act 404 permitting processes. Biological Resources Thomas Gaman, Lisa Glaser, Doreen Projects needing Section 404 permits must Gluckin & Richard Kanter, Carl & FISH ENTRAPMENT IN THE DETENTION comply with the EPA’s 404 (b)(1) Guidelines Donna Gowan, Sallie Griffith, BASIN: The response to concerns about that call for an Alternatives Analysis that Margaret Harrington, Luanna fish entrapment raised by MAS and several includes clear descriptions of the purpose Helfman, Douglas R. Howell, agencies was that design features would of and need for the project with an analysis Elizabeth Huning, Molly Hynes, allow fish to leave the basin along with of alternatives and identifies the Least Robert Kennis, Candace Key, Joe & diverted water as it flows back into Fairfax Environmentally Damaging Alternative that Barbara Kirkbride, Susan M. Creek. The basin would have shallow achieves the project purpose. Landwirth, Joanne Lee, Margaret Lee, side slopes and bottom to facilitate fish The EPA points out the benefits of early William Legge, Mark & Peggy Lehigh, passage, and the diversion basin would Sandra Levitan, Rockwell Lowe, coordination including avoiding having to revisit decisions in the future, and recommends never be fully closed to fish passage. It Marjorie Macris, Daniel Mardesich, would allow any fish that enter the basin Daphne Markham, Jeffery Martin, that early planning occur now and consider what NEPA and Section 404 will require during its use to leave along with detained Peter Mason, Michael McCrea, Prem water as it reenters Fairfax Creek. The McMurdo, Jane R. Medley, Barbara & in the future. Sufficient information on hydrologic, geomorphic and habitat designs design will allow unrestricted flow in the Gerald Meral, Mrs. E. W. Moews, creek through the diversion and overflow Jean Moore, Richard Morrison, Eileen must demonstrate that the project minimizes structure most of the time. Also, fish entry Murray, Patrick Murray, Russell potential adverse impacts to sensitive aquatic into the diversion basin is expected to be Nelson, Linda Nicoletto, Jean O'Korn ecosystems, incorporates flood plain designs infrequent because water diversion into & Michael McDaniel, Michael and sea level rise models that further long- the basin would only occur in large events. Oldham, Robert and C. J. Peacock, term resiliency, facilitates connections between Phil Peterson, PG&E Corporation habitats, incorporates stormwater treatment, NATIVE TREE IMPACTS: MAS and some Foundation (donor match), Robert considers sediment transport, and provides agencies commented that the EIR does not Portnoy, Jeanne Price, Patricia Raven, adequate transition zones. adequately address tree impacts. Only a Susan & John Ristow, Roger & The approach so far has not been on the 1:1 replacement for lost trees is proposed. Dorothy Roberts, Barbara & John whole of the Highway 37 corridor, but the CDFW policy calls for 3:1 replacement Robeson, Rose Foundation, Richard focus has been on Segment B, which extends for removal of native trees with 3-6-inch & Anne Ruben, Andrina Ruzick, Susan from Highway 121 to Mare Island. diameter; for larger they recommend 6:1 M. Ryan, Julius Schindler, Barbara replacement. Marin County Countywide Searles, Kathy Sheridan, Madeleine SAN ANSELMO FLOOD RISK Plan policies call for 2:1. The EIR commits & Donald Simborg, Sandra Slichter, REDUCTION PROJECT FINAL EIR to complying with permit conditions. Doris Solberg, Virginia Soper, Charles REVIEWED Also, in defining mitigation for tree Stanberry, Charles & Jean Stewart, At its September 18 meeting, the Marin county loss, the Final EIR relies heavily on a Roger Stoll, Meryl Sundove, John & Board of Supervisors on unanimous vote, Revegetation and Monitoring Plan which Jill Templeton, Rex Thompson, Robert certified the EIR for the San Anselmo Flood would be prepared at a later time with Timineri, Jeanne & Peter Tymstra, Risk Reduction Project and approved the input from regulatory agencies. We want Mary S. Webster, Elizabeth A. project. The purpose of the project is to reduce the public to have the opportunity to review Weisheit, David & Deborah Wiechers, various flood risk elements, include a basin to the Plan. Amy & Bruce Wilcer, Robert Wolfson, detain floodwaters on the former Sunnyside Jerald & Sharon Young Nursery site, and modify San Anselmo and Response B2-8 suggests “payments to an

4 THE RAIL LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON Conservation approved mitigation bank” as a possible endangered Ridgway’s Rails. For San Pedro The Evolution riparian mitigation strategy. MAS has a Mountain the existing trail, generally through long history of opposing mitigation banks the center of the Preserve, is proposed to be of Birds NEW CLASS! for various reasons, two of which are designated as a system trail and other social Six Classroom Sessions that they are often unsuccessful and are trails closed. and Two Field Trips located away from the site of loss. There At Terra Linda/Sleepy Hollow some of Beginning October 18, 2018 is no wetland or riparian mitigation bank the existing hiking-only trails through Bald in the Ross Valley so a bank to be used Hill and the main fire roads at Sky Ranch are Richardson Bay Audubon Center would be some distance from the site of proposed for adoption. Other possible changes and Sanctuary loss. It’s hard to believe a site for replacing in this area include proposals for two multi-use 7 PM to 8:30 PM lost trees cannot be found within this Corte trails to connect to Manuel T. Freitas Parkway, With Bob Lewis & Bruce Mast of GGAS Madera Creek watershed. If using a bank is one in the vicinity of Cherry Hill and Spring Take your knowledge of birds beyond a real possibility, at minimum information Hill in north Terra Linda and the other further the usual identification skills. This should be provided about the location(s) of south next to the existing Fox Lane Trail. A fascinating in-depth introduction the nearest bank for riparian habitat. to Avian Evolution may be just the third proposed trail would connect Malone Ln. class for you. Fast-paced, never SEDIMENT DEPOSITION: Most of the to the Ridgewood FR. boring, the class will focus on the sediment would be trapped in the creek Although Open Space District staff put scientists whose work has led to and would be deposited in the stream an forward options, they emphasized that the the modern theory of evolution, the estimated 600 feet upstream from the alignments shown on their maps at the meeting evolutionary processes that have diversion structure. A 25-year flood event are simply under consideration. No decisions resulted in over 10,000 species of birds today. This is an advanced could reduce capacity in the basin by 1-2 have been made to move forward with specific class, but don’t worry, there won’t be feet. Sediment would be removed from the plans in any preserve. The deadline for any tests. basin as needed up to 2,100 cubic yards comments is October 20. per event and in emergencies. If you would like more information about WEEK 1 – OCTOBER 18 trails considered for any of these preserves in Avian Evolution – Introduction and After residents of the Ross Valley approved Region 5 or to provide comments on any trail History of Science funding to address the major flooding in alignments, you are encouraged to contact Jon WEEK 2 – OCTOBER 25 that watershed, the Flood Control and Water Campo at 415-473-2686. How Birds Evolve Conservation District has put forward multiple WEEK 3 – NOVEMBER 1 proposals to reduce the risk of flooding. Some ONE TAM MAPPING residents have opposed all alternatives that have Dinosaurs to Birds – Evolution of ONE TAM is mapping Marin County’s vegeta- Birds from the Mesozoic Era to Today yet been proposed. After years of investigation, tion, and we are pleased they are including Marin it is time for action to be taken to address the WEEK 4 – NOVEMBER 15 issues. While the Flood Control District still Audubon properties. So far, aerial imagery has Western Hemisphere – South has some environmental issues to address, this been completed and a LIDAR (Light Detection America: Avian Evolution During the phase seems on the right track. and Ranging) flight is scheduled for September Paleogene & Beyond or October depending on flying conditions. WEEK 5 – NOVEMBER 29 OPEN SPACE DISTRICT REGION 5 Vegetation-focused staff from One Tam partners Welcome to North America – Bird WORKSHOP (MMWD, State Parks, Marin County OSD Arrival and Speciation and GGNRA) convened to review and refine All went well at this Region 5 Workshop. WEEK 6 – DECEMBER 6 Region 5 stretches across Central Marin and the field sampling scheme. A contract field crew An Island Called California – When includes Santa Venetia Marsh, Santa Margarita has completed data collection at approximately and where did California’s birds Island, San Pedro Mountain including Heron 120 locations throughout the county this season. originate and how did they get here? Hill, Bald Hill, and the Terra Linda/Sleepy Field work will resume in spring. Hollow Divide. The purpose of the workshops One Tam is also undertaking a bat inven- ONLINE REGISTRATION IS OPEN tory project. Acoustic monitoring has detected at www.marinaudubon.org. The is to solicit public comment on the roads and cost is $110 for Marin Audubon trails to be designated as system trails. nearly the full range of bat species expected Chapter-Supporting Members and This workshop was more peaceful than earlier on Mt. Tam lands. Many sites averaged five $145 for non-members (includes a ones, and the turnout was more modest. One species. MMWD’s Kent Lake is a standout one-year MAS chapter-supporting very positive change was the presentation by with 10 species detected at a single station. membership). Those registering for Senior Natural Resource Planner, Jon Campo, on California Myotis, Yuma Myotis and Mexican this class will receive lecture notes the wildlife resources in Region 5 preserves. These Free-tailed Bats were detected at most sites. The and additional information prior to the first meeting. include endangered Ridgway’s Rail, threatened telemetry effort was equally successful. Eleven Northern Spotted Owl, and Golden . None bats were tagged including seven Yuma Myotis, of the previous workshops have presented any three Pallids and two California Myotis. information about natural resources. Six roost sites were identified including one WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Regarding trail alignments, no changes are maternal roost site supporting more than 300 Susanna Benningfield, Mary Bicknell, being considered for Santa Margarita and Santa Pallid Bats. The results of inventory will inform Jason Hassrick, Sarah Lynch, Kateri Venetia marshes, both of which have a single the vegetation best management practices now Murray, Diane Naydan, Donna & loop trail that skirts tidal marsh that supports being developed. Joseph Terdiman

LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON OCTOBER 2018 5 Habitat Stewardship HABITAT STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM CORTE MADERA ECOLOGICAL As required by our regulatory permits, Now, the end of the dry season, RESERVE Year 10 Monitoring of the Bahia Tidal Marsh two nonnative invasive species There were lots of activities at Corte Madera Restoration project is beginning. Field work are preparing to bloom: stinkwort this month. Lowell Sykes has watered the will take place in mid-September and will (Dittrichia graveolens) and Russian plants again with the help of Martha Jarocki. include aerial photographs, topographic thistle or saltwort (Salsola soda). He also ordered and had trucked in three loads surveys to evaluate the progress of the marsh Saltwort grows near the tide line, of compost from Redwood Landfill. Martha evolution, and vegetation surveys. The data but stinkwort is found in much drier and her volunteers, in addition to removing areas. We will pull these species, will then be turned into a report for MAS and invasive plants, helped Lowell distribute and continue to reduce Harding the regulatory agencies. the mulch around the plants we planted grass. Is one of our project areas in your last winter. More is yet to be done. Contact TISCORNIA neighborhood? Act locally and join Martha at [email protected]. We presented our Nature-based Sea Level Rise us on a workday. Witness restoration BAHIA Marsh Restoration project to the San Rafael first-hand and be a part of it. We all Problems at Bahia continue: folks along Parks Commission in September and we are make a difference. Bolero cut trees and then left cuttings, scheduled before the City Council on October We have the tools, gloves and branches and leaves on our property for us to 1. The Commission voted unanimously to snacks. We generally work until recommend supporting our project to the City about 1 PM, but even an hour is clean up. Irresponsible dog walkers continue Council. We will be asking for support for valuable help. Everyone is welcome. —off-leash dogs threatening walkers. We are Bring a friend. working to have the Humane Society help our grant application for the next phase of our with enforcement. project. VOLUNTEER WORK DAYS Triangle Marsh, East Corte Madera: First Saturdays: October 6, November 3 Utilizing Our Christmas Bird Count Data Meet at 10 AM on Paradise David Sexton Dr. directly across from the main Ring Mountain trailhead near the For those who wonder how bird count information and note where the increases and Montessori School. information, such as that gathered during the declines are taking place. Bahia, Novato: annual Audubon Christmas Bird Counts, is We were informed that grassland species Monthly workdays are continuing but utilized, the June 14, 2018 Marin Audubon were in decline, woodland species were on a more irregular schedule. If you Society Speaker Series, featuring speaker Gregg increasing, and raptors as a group were would like to help, please contact Verutes, had some very good answers. increasing. were mixed with some Jude at [email protected]. Gregg is a Data Visualization Specialist with increases, such as Barred Owl, and some Corte Madera Ecological Reserve National Audubon. He gave a very informative decreases, such as Burrowing Owls. We looked Expansion: talk called “Visualizing an Accountable at the trends of many individual species in A small group of volunteers from Conservation Organization: How our Christmas the Greenbrae Boardwalk has begun California, and found that American Robin, Bird Count data helps.” Gregg was well to work at Marin Audubon’s new , and Black Oystercatcher prepared to give an update on the last 50 years restoration site behind Cost Plus were increasing, while California Quail, of CBC data collection. He introduced an Plaza. We are trying to keep the Western Sandpiper, and Wrentit were application, developed by National Audubon, native plants ahead of the invasive decreasing. that could quickly show the bird population non-natives from year one. Please Gregg pointed out how important this pitch in. trends of the CBC since 1966. information would be to evaluate the effects of Contact Martha Jarocki, The CBC Trends program, which currently climate change. [email protected] or phone has population data on 528 species, will be Gregg also mentioned a new community 415-461-3592 available on the National Audubon website sometime this fall. science program called Climate Watch. This THANK YOU TO OUR program enlists volunteer birders to count STEWARDSHIP VOLUNTEERS The program gives the population data certain bluebirds and nuthatches in the same Bob Harlow, Bob Hinz, Martha and in areas as large as country-wide, individual place, twice a year. They would be counted in Gerry Jarocki, Lowell Sykes, Marla states, or localized into Bird Conservation Ulrich Regions. This wealth of information fully six places within a 10km x 10km square area. engaged those who were attending the talk These few hours of volunteer participation, and the rest of the evening was spent looking extended across the country, could form the BENEFIT MARIN AUDUBON SOCIETY at population trends of our favorite birds. We basis of an important scientific effort to detail Make your next Amazon order were informed that of the species profiled so the ongoing effects of climate change. For through AmazonSmile. For far, overall, 59% are increasing and 41% are more information go to www.audubon.org/ information, visit https://smile. in decline. With the use of the program we news/how-join-climate-watch-community- amazon.com/ch/94-6076664. were able to see a further breakdown of this science-program-audubon.

6 THE RAIL LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON OPEN Marin Birdlog: August 2018 TO ALL! eBIRD FOR BEGINNERS By Noah Arthur Blue Classroom Richardson Bay Audubon Center August is usually shorebird month on the 376 Greenwood Beach Road California coast. Rarity-seeking birders spend Tiburon, CA Saturday, October 13, 2018 hours scanning distant mudflats in search of 8:45 AM to noon “something different,” and Marin usually turns With Bob Battagin up a few unusual shorebirds each year in late If you're interested in learning how summer. However, August shorebirding was not to use eBird but not sure how to as good as usual this year, and the shorebirds get started, this class is for you! eBird is a great way to keep track were eclipsed by a spectacular early push of of your bird sightings, explore the eastern songbirds. latest bird observations in your area, The first rare bird of the month was a female research bird sightings in a different Yellow-headed Blackbird at Five Brooks Pond state, county, or country that you're on August 8th (CM). Another wanderer from planning to visit, and compete with your friends to find the most birds in inland California was an adult Swainson’s Hawk your area. Perhaps most importantly, that floated over the Pt. Reyes Chimney Rock while having all this fun you'll also Trail on the 15th (DW). be making important contributions to Yellow-headed Blackbird science and conservation. Becky Matsubara, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, detail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, Matsubara, Becky The firstTownsend’s Warbler of the fall The class will consist of three showed up at the Pt. Reyes Fish Docks on the 17th 1-hour segments, with short breaks (DS), soon to be followed by many more warblers and other migrants in the latter half of the month. between each. From 9 to 9:55 A nice uncommon shorebird for Marin was a AM Bob will provide an overview, Wilson’s Phalarope on the Mendoza Ranch pond explaining What is eBird? You'll also learn how to register as a new at Pt. Reyes on the 18th (MS, LS). Also rare along user, submit a checklist of your bird the outer coast were two Purple Martins flying sightings, and access and manage over Mendoza Ranch—heading south and probably your personal checklists and data. actively migrating—on the 20th (DS). From 10 to 10:55 AM you'll learn Marin’s longest-staying rarity also put in an how to set up yard and patch lists, receive eBird alerts, and explore the appearance this month: the Inverness Black Vulture, vast world of eBird data. From 11 seen on the 25th (JP). AM until noon you'll learn how to use A lot of migrants hit the Pt. Reyes Fish Docks Cornell's eBird mobile app on your on the 25th, including a Cassin’s Vireo (BA, smartphone; how to enter your bird list as you bird in the field; and other DL) and the first eastern warbler of the fall, a features of the mobile eBird app. Northern Waterthrush Willow Canada Warbler (MB). At least three detail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, Hume, Emmett The eBird for Beginners class is Flycatchers were also present (BA, DL), kicking off open to all. MAS membership is not what would turn out to be an unusually good fall season for the species in Marin and elsewhere required. To maximize your learning Clay-colored Sparrow experience, we are limiting the class the Bay Area. Also on the 25th, a was at Abbotts Lagoon (RS, RA)­—an size to 15. unexpected August record of this eastern migrant whose occurrence in our area peaks in October. Registration: Sign up for this class By the 27th, it was clear that an early wave of eastern migrants was underway, with a Chestnut- by sending an email to Jeanine sided Warbler at Drakes Beach and a Least Flycatcher at the Fish Docks (DS). Starritt at [email protected]. On the 28th, the Palomarin banding team Include the full name and email address for each person that you're caught one of the rarest warblers of the month, registering. We will confirm your an immature Canada Warbler (MD). registration. Once the class is full, More rarities had descended on Pt. Reyes we’ll add names to a waitlist. by the 29th, with the best being not one but Equipment you'll need to bring to class: Since eBird is accessed via Eastern Kingbirds two near E Ranch (DS), the internet please bring your subsequently seen by many happy birders. A smartphone, tablet, and/or laptop Prairie Warbler (RH), a Tennessee Warbler computer. If you don't have a laptop (MF), the continuing Waterthrush, and an or smartphone, we'll try to pair you up American Redstart with the instructor or another (BB, EC) were all at the Fish participant. Docks on the 29th and/or 30th. Probably even Advanced preparation: To save class rarer than the Canada Warbler was a male Cape time, please download Cornell Lab of Buff-breasted Sandpiper May Warbler at Abbotts Lagoon on the 31st (DE). Ornithology's eBird Mobile app onto Associación Armonia, https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, detail Associación https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, Armonia, One of the big stories of this fall in the your smart phone before attending the class. It's free of charge from California birding world has been a surprising incursion of Buff-breasted Sandpipers, with far Apple's App Store or from Google more reports than there are in most years. Marin got its piece of the action on the 31st, with a Play. You'll learn how to use it in the Buff-breasted Sandpiper at Abbotts Lagoon (DB). third hour. For additional information about accessing the eBird Mobile Observers and Acronyms BA: Bob Atwood, BB: Bob Battagin, CM: Colin Meusel, DB: Don Bartling, DE: Daniel app, please refer to the description Edelstein, DL: Derek Lecy, DS: Dan Singer, DW: Denise Wight, EC: Everett Clark, JP: John Perry, LS: Lucas Stephenson, for this class in the field trips section MB: Mark Butler, MD: Mark Dettling, MF: Mark Forney, MS: Mark Stephenson, RA: Robert Aramayo, RH: Roger of the MAS website at www. Harshaw, RS: Rusty Scalf marinaudubon.org.

LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON OCTOBER 2018 7 SAVE THE DATE Nov. 1 Field Trip: Las Gallinas or possible alternate location With Bob Chilvers & Friends Nov. 2 – 4 Sandhill Crane Festival, Lodi, www.cranefestival.com/index.php Nov. 3 Field Trip: Rodeo Lagoon Encore With William Legge & David Wiechers Nov. 11 Field Trip: Marta’s Marsh With Mark Schulist Nov. 17 Field Trip: Las Gallinas/Hamilton Wetlands With Jim White & Bob Battagin Nov. 18 Boat Trip: San Francisco Bay Register now! With John Klobas & Sarah Brooks Nov. 1, 15, Class: Evolution of Birds & 29 Signups Required With Bob Lewis & Bruce Mast

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SUPPORT MARIN AUDUBON SOCIETY — BECOME A CHAPTER-SUPPORTING MEMBER Join or Donate to the Marin Audubon Society We invite you to become a Chapter-supporting member of Marin Audubon Society (MAS) to support our Please fill in this form and mail to the address below. If you are paying by check, please make it payable Marin Audubon Society important habitat protection and restoration work, to . conservation advocacy, our full calendar of birding n field trips and speakers and our newsletter, The Rail. Enroll me as a Chapter- Supporting Member Marin Audubon is a chapter of National Audubon (NAS). name However, becoming a Chapter-Supporting Member of n Renewal MAS is separate and distinct from a membership in n New Member NAS. While MAS works with NAS on issues of mutual address concern, we are a separate non-profit Section 501(c)(3) n $25 Annual rate for students (18 years and under) and all-volunteer organization. Marin-based NAS members city state zip do receive this MAS newsletter, The Rail, however we seniors (65 and over) encourage all NAS members to also become Chapter- n $35 Basic email telephone supporting members of MAS to support our local work. n Very little of our funding comes from NAS, and we rely $50 Sponsor on our MAS Chapter-supporting members and donors to n $500 Patron n This is a Gift Membership from: help us fund our land acquisitions, restorations, habitat n $100 Sustaining protection, conservation advocacy, this newsletter and n our local programs. $1,000 Benefactor If you’re not already a Chapter-supporting member, n Please accept my donation we urge you to join MAS and urge your friends, in the amount of n Please send me The Rail by email only. neighbors and relatives to join us, too. $ You can join MAS or make a donation on our website using your credit card or PayPal by going to n Master Card Payment by Credit Card: www.marinaudubon.org. Alternatively, you can join by filling out this form and sending us your payment by mail. n Visa

name on credit card ALTERNATIVELY, IF YOU ARE LOOKING TO JOIN Fill out form and mail to: NATIONAL AUDUBON FOR THE FIRST TIME ... Membership Secretary MAS will receive 100% of your initial membership if you credit card no. expiration date enter MAS’s chapter code C04 on your application. To Marin Audubon Society join, go to www.audubon.org/join. P.O. Box 599 The best option for the birds: Join MAS and NAS. Mill Valley, CA 94942 signature

8 OCTOBER 2018 LIKE US ON WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/MARINAUDUBON