Newsletter of the Marin Audubon Society. Volume 54, No. 3 November 2011

THE

ClapperMARIN AUDUBON Rail SOCIETY

SPEAKER SERIES Free and Open to the public Action Alert Richardson Bay Audubon Center by Rick Johnson 376 Greenwood Beach Road Tiburon, 94920 Information: 415/789-0703 time frame. Ever since, DBOC has THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10 7:30 PM worked to undermine the Wilderness Natural History of Hummingbirds designation and keep the Estero for their With Meryl Sundove own use. In the draft EIS, Alternative A honors the commitment to end the oyster operations, create the wilderness area, and provide the best possible protection Pavek

Nordbye Terry of native species and habitat. In the Richard

EIS, Alternative A is identified as the of Environmentally Preferred Alternative. courtesyPhoto of courtesy

The other three Alternatives (B, C Oyster racks exposed at low tide and D) propose a new special use permit Photo Anna’s Hummingbird to allow Oyster Company he National Park Service (NPS) has operations in the Estero for 10 more years. The Hummingbirds have many awe-inspiring prepared a Draft Environmental Impact alternatives vary with three levels of increasing qualities packed into their tiny bodies Statement (EIS) for a new Drakes Bay oyster production. According to the EIS, all of making them appealing and special. TOyster Company (DBOC) Special Use Permit these will result in more adverse environmental They are at the functional limits on (SUP). The Draft EIS is now available for impact in the Estero. MAS agrees. miniaturization of body parts like brain public review and comment at this web link: and bone. Hummingbirds are also at the ENVIRONMENTALLY PREFERABLE ALTERNATIVE parkplanning.nps.gov/document.cfm?parkID= smallest size physiologically possible The NPS is required to identify the environ- 333&projectID=33043&documentID=43390 for warm-blooded animals like birds mentally preferable alternative in its EIS and are found only in the Americas. The Draft EIS evaluates four alternatives. documents for public review and comment. Meryl will weave stories with the help The first one, Alternative A, ends the oyster This alternative is “the alternative that causes of slides to tell about unique features operation when scheduled on November 30, the least damage to the biological and physical and adaptations of hummingbirds. She 2012. Although National Seashore environment; it also means the alternative which will discuss which hummingbird species was established in 1962, NPS did not acquire best protects, preserves, and enhances historic, are found in Marin County and how to ownership of all lands and waters within the attract them to your garden! cultural, and natural resources.” Alternative A is Seashore’s boundary immediately. In 1965, the Meryl Sundove is a teacher/naturalist identified as the environmentally preferable who worked for National Audubon state-held water bottoms of Drakes Estero were alternative because it has the most potential to Society at the Richardson Bay Audubon conveyed to NPS by the State of California. In protect the biological, physical, and cultural Center as education coordinator for 22 1972, NPS purchased fee title to the upland environment in and around Drakes Estero. This is years. She is a popular field trip leader parcel where the oyster processing facilities based on considerations of the negative impacts of and teacher of the Marin Audubon were located from Mr. Johnson, the owner of the oyster operations, Society’s annual Spring Birds and Their the oyster operation. As part of the purchase as we have discussed Songs class, and has been the Audubon agreement, Mr. Johnson elected to retain a 40- in The Clapper Rail. IN THIS ISSUE naturalist on many National Audubon year Reservation Of Use. Subsequently, the area Society nature travel adventures world- Here are the benefits was designated by law to become a Federal President’s Message 2 wide. She is currently a faculty member of Alternative A; all of Wilderness Area once the oyster operation ceased. of S.T.R.A.W. (Students and Teachers these contribute to Field Trips 3 Restoring A Watershed) which is part When Drakes Bay Oyster Company purchased the protection of the of PRBO Conservation Science. the remaining Reservation Of Use in 2005, the natural ecosystem of Conservation Report 4 Come at 7:15 PM to socialize and new owners knew it would expire in 2012, and Drakes Estero: have refreshments before the program. said they could make their money back in that continued on page 2 Birdlog 7

NOVEMBER 2011 1 BOARD OF DIRECTORS President’s Message All phone numbers are in the 415 area code unless otherwise noted. Questions? Please By Barbara Salzman contact the Board member. President Barbara Salzman 924-6057 As you will see from our conservation articles, at one of our habitat stewardship days – or all of Vice President Lowell Sykes 388-2821 this is a very busy and important time for the above. Secretary Mariah Baird 456-3355 protecting our natural resources. Not only are Another threat to wildlife and habitat is use Treasurer Josephine Kreider 381-1910 major plans undergoing revisions (the Local or overuse of trails through natural habitats. Finance Chair Greg Block 479-8254 Coastal Plan, GGNRA Management Plan, A recent press release from the Marin County Conservation Phil Peterson 898-8400 Marin County Road and Trails Plan, Larkspur Bicycle Coalition announced that it has hired Barbara Salzman 924-6057 General Plan) but there are a number of projects a lobbyist to advocate for bike use on single- Earthshare Jude Stalker 668-1242 proposed and being evaluated. This month we track (narrow trails that will accommodate one Field Trips Vicky Van Meter 299-2514 only had space for the GGNRA Management person). Bicycles are currently prohibited on Membership Ruth Pratt 453-2989 Plan and San Rafael Airport Athletic complex. most single track trails in the county, except Fundraising Flinn Moore Rauck 892-7554 Other developments being reviewed include a some in state parks. This would discourage Programs Helen Lindqvist 789-0703 Bike Park at Stafford Lake, the Tiburon Library most of the people who enjoy more passive Special Projects Jude Stalker 668-1242 expansion and Hanna Ranch, to name a few. recreation, such as observing wildlife, on such Nominating Phil Peterson 898-8400 Volunteers Bob Hinz 383-8688 We hope members take advantage of the trails. People who enjoy these quiet uses, may Property Management Ed Nute 457-9241 public processes available to comment on the need to speak up to be able to continue. Publicity Martha Jarocki 461-3592 lands and resources that you are concerned MAS has two Christmas Bird Counts coming BAAC Reps Lowell Sykes 388-2821 about. Many parts of the country do not have up soon – register to join us for one or both and Barbara Salzman 924-6057 environmental review. In this The Clapper Rail, take advantage of the class we will be offering

DIRECTORS MEETINGS we try to present our view, the view to protect in preparation. We also have some exciting field Meetings open to members. the birds that we all enjoy and the habitats that trips coming up. 7:30 PM, First Tuesday of the month they depend on. The natural resources we have Backers of the campaign to repeal SMART Richardson Bay Audubon Center in Marin are here because lots of people worked (“RepealSMART”) have begun their effort to 376 Greenwood Beach Road Tiburon, California 94920 to protect them. We depend on each of you to collect signatures to qualify a repeal measure for continue and help with that work, whether it be the ballot. They may need as many as 40,000 MAS telephone: 721-4271 (for messages only) writing or e-mailing to a decision-making body, signatures. If you see any of their signature Marin Audubon Society is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) testifying at a public hearing or coming to help collectors do sign on. organization. All memberships and contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.

The Clapper Rail is published ten times a year by the Marin Audubon Society on 100% recycled • Wetland functions and values would be paper. Edited by Bob Hinz [email protected], Drakes Estero 383-8688; and assisted by other members of continued from page 1 restored through natural processes under MAS. Deadline is the first of each month. Alternative A. Fringe wetland habitat and

©2011 Marin Audubon Society • Eelgrass beds in Drakes Estero would benefit eelgrass beds are susceptible to impacts from from removal of shading by oyster racks and Web site: www.marinaudubon.org continued wave action (such as that caused Northern Calif. Bird Box: 681-7422 damage by motorboat propellers. These special by boat wakes) and placement of fill material. (Provided by Golden Gate AS) aquatic ecosystems, functioning as habitat, Alternative A would eliminate from Drakes DONATIONS APPRECIATED! nursery grounds, and food for numerous Estero the daily motorboat traffic and the Marin Audubon Society welcomes gifts of funds, species of fish, waterfowl, and other marine oyster growing bags, allowing these natural stock, or property, and bequests in general, species, would not be disrupted on a daily basis habitats to reestablish. or in honor or memory of someone. Gifts may be directed to any MAS project. Unspecified under Alternative A. • Atmospheric and underwater noise associated gifts of more than $100 will be placed in the • Control of the invasive tunicate Didemnum with boat motors, oyster tumblers, pneumatic Endowment Fund for conservation, the protec- would be more manageable under Alternative drills, and daily customer traffic would be tion of wildlife species and the preservation A. Already present within Drakes Estero, this and enhancement of wildlife habitats. Since removed under Alternative A, thus restoring MAS is an all-volunteer organization, 100% of invasive species most often attaches to hard a more natural soundscape within Drakes your donation goes to its projects. All gifts are substrates, including hanging culture and Estero. These noise generators and associated tax-deductible and will be acknowledged in The racks. Alternative A would remove the artificial disturbance would persist and in some cases Clapper Rail, as well as personally on behalf of the Society. Checks should be made out and hard mariculture structures currently used as increase for another 10 years under Alternatives mailed to: Marin Audubon Society, P.O. Box habitat by the Didemnum. Alternatives B, C, B, C, and D. 599, Mill Valley, CA 94942. and D would enable and promote continued • Subsequent to expiration of the SUP, the expansion of this invasive species. congressionally designated potential wilderness • Removal of cultivated non-native species would be converted to congressionally desig- MISSION STATEMENT under Alternative A would best protect the nated wilderness, as directed by Congress and To conserve and restore natural natural ecosystem of Drakes Estero. NPS policies, providing a marine wilderness ecosystems, focusing on birds • Alternative A would eliminate the daily use experience to the public. and other wildlife and their habitats and operation of motorboats on Drakes Estero, How You Can Help: MAS strongly urges you to for the benefit of humanity and thereby reducing the potential for disturbance submit comments to the National Park Service the earth’s biological diversity. to the resident and migratory wildlife species by November 29, 2011. Each individual voice that depend on its resources. continued on page 7

2 THE CLAPPER RAIL MAS FIELD TRIPS No need to sign up for one day trips, just join us. Bring lunch, field guide, and binoculars. For information, Open to the public accessibility and weather check: Vicky Van Meter at 415/299-2514

LAS GALLINAS STORAGE PONDS Beginner birders are especially welcome on the first Thursday of each month for a leisurely walk SAN RAFAEL around the Las Gallinas Storage Ponds near McInnis Park. There is always something interesting Thursday, November 3, 2011 to see and over 100 species have been reported over the course of a year. Fall is a good time to Thursday, December 1, 2011 see many of the migrants that stop at the ponds. Hawks are frequent and we see the graceful 8:30 AM to 12 noon Northern Harrier on virtually every trip. This is great way to start learning the raptors, waterfowl, With Susan Kelly and friends and other groups, as well as getting tips on optics, birding books, and birding etiquette.

DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 101 take the Smith Ranch Road exit; go east toward the McInnis Park entrance. Turn left immediately after crossing the railroad tracks and go the end of the road to the Las Gallinas Storage Ponds parking lot. Meet the group by the bridge just past the parking lot. The walk starts at 8:30 but late arrivals should easily be able to find the group.

ABBOTT’S LAGOON Join John and Carolyn for a walk at Abbott’s Lagoon. John, who ran an Audubon Center in Sunday, November 13, 2011 Connecticut, is the co-compiler of the Point Reyes Christmas Bird Count. Carolyn helps 9:30 AM to 2 PM organize the Point Reyes Birding & Nature Festival. With John and Carolyn Abbott’s Lagoon has a variety of habitats where we can expect to see waterfowl, herons, Longstreth raptors, wintering shorebirds, loons, grebes and possibly a few late migrating landbirds. With luck, we might find Virginia Rail or Sora on the upper pond. If time allows, we will look for wintering Snowy Plovers. We’ll walk the 1.5 easy miles to the lower lagoon and another 0.3 mile to the ocean beach.

DIRECTIONS: Allowing about an hour and a half travel time from San Rafael, follow Sir Francis Drake Blvd (SFDB) to Olema. From Stinson Beach go north on Hwy 1 to Olema. From Olema continue north on Hwy 1 (SFDB), take the second left turn (SFDB west), continue through Inverness, turn right (north) onto Pierce Point Road and keep driving until you come to the Abbott’s Lagoon parking lot on the left (west) where our group will gather.

DUCK, DUCK! … PELICAN! Join Mark and his family for a bird walk at the Las Gallinas Storage Ponds. The path at the FAMILY WALK Ponds is flat, gravel-covered, and wide—no bushwhacking involved—and we’ll go as far or near LAS GALLINAS STORAGE PONDS as the group desires. The trip is open to absolutely anyone who has the slightest interest in SAN RAFAEL birds and children are welcome; no experience necessary. Mark will provide an introduction to Saturday, November 26, 2011 the birds of Marin, and we will look for different sizes, colors, shapes, behaviors and perhaps (Thanksgiving weekend) listen for sounds. Extra binoculars and field guides will be available if you don’t have any. 10 to 11 AM With Mark Forney DIRECTIONS: See November 3 above.

GRAY LODGE & SACRAMENTO Join us for a winter weekend at the refuges. We’ll spend most of Saturday at Gray Lodge NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Wildlife Area, managed by the California Department of Fish and Game. Normally about half Saturday and Sunday, a million birds use this area in winter and favorable breeding years can bring more. We will December 3 and 4, 2011 walk a 2-mile loop observing birds until lunch, then hike out to the viewing platform to look for With Bruce Deuel additional species. If time permits, we will take a drive around part of the Sutter Buttes and then return for the evening fly-out. Ducks and Snow Geese abound, and perhaps Sandhill Cranes will arrive in the late afternoon. At dusk great clouds of birds leave the ponds to go to the rice fields to feed (dusk = no hunters!). Then motel, dinner and get ready for Sunday’s early morning walk along the Feather River in Oroville, where there will be a completely new cast of birds. From there we will caravan to the Sacramento Wildlife Refuge arriving around noon. After a brief tour, we will drive around the ponds and fields that usually have new species missed elsewhere. Please let me know if you plan to attend. Contact Vicky Van Meter at Vicky.vanmeter@gmail. com or 415/299-2514 (e-mail preferred). This fall, visitors to Gray Lodge must purchase a $4.32 Daily DFG Lands Pass in advance. The new system is complicated, so I will buy the passes for everyone once I have a head count. If you want to carpool, indicate if driver or rider and where you live. We will try to link you up with participants in your area so you can make your own arrangements. Please be prepared for a bit of cold or rain. Meet at 10:30 AM Saturday at the large parking lot just beyond the small museum, well within Gray Lodge. NOTE: Most people stay in Oroville Saturday night for an early start on Sunday for birding by the Feather River. A forecast of heavy rain will cancel. Motels in Oroville: Villa Court Inn, 530/533-3930 (discount to MAS participants); Best Value Inn, 530/533-7070; Comfort Inn, 530/533-9673; Motel 6, 530/532-9400 Motel in Gridley: Gridley Inn, 530/846-4520

DIRECTIONS: From Marin to Gray Lodge, take I-80 to Davis, Hwy 113 north to Hwy 99 near Tudor, north to the town of Live Oak, west on Pennington Rd to the Gray Lodge entrance. Allow 3.5 hours.

NOVEMBER 2011 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.

GGNRA GENERAL MANAGEMENT PLAN viewing but would be highly controlled. Some RELEASED FOR PUBLIC COMMENT buildings would be stabilized. MAS has no This major update of the now 30-year-old problems with stabilizing buildings. GGNRA Management Plan will guide Park Under both Alternatives, an offshore zone development for at least the next 20 years. The 300 feet around most of the island would be Plan, which addresses GGNRA lands in Marin, managed as a marine protected area for seabird and San Mateo Counties, is now colonies on the cliffs, but management under out for public review. The comment deadline is Alternative 2 would be more controlled. November 11. In Marin County, the Park’s stated intent Here’s an overview of the Park’s alternatives in choosing Alternative 1 for most sites is to and recommendations and of MAS’s position preserve and restore interconnected coastal on the Marin County sites plus Alcatraz Island: ecosystems while enhancing facilities that Three alternatives are presented: support visitors experiences, improving Alternative 1, “Connecting People With trailheads and trails, roads, campsites, picnic Parks,” seeks to encourage visitor access while areas, restrooms and other structures at popular maintaining the integrity and diversity of destinations. Some new facilities would be natural resources and systems. developed. Alternative 2, “Preserving and Enjoying Muir Woods National Monument – Coastal Ecosystems,” would restore natural Alternative 3 is preferred by the Park because processes, reconnect fragmented habitats, and it balances the restoration of past disturbances optimize recovery of special status species with implementing a comprehensive education and survival of a wide range of wildlife while and interpretive program with thematic trails. providing a more modest level of public use. Alternative 3, “Focusing on National Alternative 2 would seek to restore the primeval Treasures,” emphasizes the Park’s cultural and character of the old-growth redwood forest and natural resources. would be managed to ensure the highest level In addition, Park lands are divided into the of resource integrity. Visitors would “experience following zones: Diverse Opportunities, Scenic the sights, sounds, light and darkness of the Corridor, Cultural, Historic, Interpretive forest with a more primitive experience than Corridor, Natural Zone, Sensitive Resource and today.” Buildings, parking lots and historic Park Operations. The maps provided are at a trails would be removed. All visitors would small scale so the boundaries of these zones can arrive by shuttle. The restoration of Redwood only be generally determined. Creek, a salmon stream, would be accelerated. MAS’s preferred Alternative is 2; the Park’s Offshore Ocean and Bay Environment preferred Alternative is 1 for the Marin county – The Park prefers Alternative 1, but MAS sites; and Alternative 3 for Alcatraz. prefers 2 because it includes protection of Our analysis, focused on specific sites, is as Redwood Creek salmonids. In other respects follows: these alternatives are the same. It is claimed MARIN AUDUBON PROPERTIES Alcatraz – The GGNRA’s preferred both would preserve the integrity of the ocean 1. Petaluma Marsh 180 acres Alternative 3 would immerse visitors in the and bay environment while accommodating 2. Bahia 60 acres island’s prison landscape, improve the prison uses: surfing, boating (including the Water 3. Simmons Slough 162 acres buildings and expand public access. The Trail), non-commercial fishing, marine habitats (caves, rocks and other natural features). MAS 4. Norton Avenue Pond 3 parcels regionally important colonial nesting bird colony would be protected, enhanced and wants limits on recreational uses to protect 5. Black Point Parcels 2 parcels interpreted, but how this would happen is the nesting and roosting bird colonies that are 6. Arroyo San Jose 2 parcels unclear given the extensive improvements of disturbed by boats, etc. coming near them. 7. Tidelands at buildings and paths and increased public access Stinson Beach – The Park Preferred Murphy’s Rock 34 acres that is envisioned. The problem at Alcatraz is Alternative 1 envisions new and improved 8. Corte Madera Marsh 1.8 acres that if adult birds are disturbed, they leave the facilities to support beach recreation, possibly 9. Triangle Marsh 31 acres nest and the eggs/young are then vulnerable to improving information services, improving access, and expanding the creek buffer to 10. San Clemente Creek 4.34 acres predation by gulls. Under Alternative 2 the island would be protect endangered species habitat and coastal 11. Tiscornia Marsh 20 acres managed to enhance bird habitat by controlling ecosystems. MAS’s preference, Alternative 12. Arroyo Corte Madera visitor use. Old debris piles in the parade 2, has more environmental restoration by del Presidio 2 acres ground would be retained as heron nesting removing the south parking lot and restoring habitat. Access would be provided for wildlife sand dunes.

4 THE CLAPPER RAIL providing multi-usetrailsandroad access. resources andendangered specieshabitat,while Zone These areas are designated a“ScenicCorridor andHawk Hill Spencer; Roads; Battery both alternatives. under facilitieswouldbe preserved military with visitoraccesshighlycontrolled. Historic habitat forthreatened andendangered species Rodeo Lagoonand Valley wouldbemanagedas species. Under MAS’s preferred Alternative 2 coastal habitatforthreatened andendangered andrestoreand wouldbemanagedtopreserve are recognized as“Sensitive Resources Zones” the beachandtrails.Rodeo LagoonandLake Zone” thatwould bemanagedforpeopleuseof Beach isan “Evolved Cultural Landscape providing atFt.Barry. foodservice The Rodeo camping, picnickingandavisitorfacility amenities, possiblyimproved trailheads,trails, totheheadland “withexpanded visitor portal Alternative 1,Ft.Cronkhite would bea improved formultiuseunderboth1and2. trails, andthe Tennessee Valley Trail wouldbe ponds wouldberemoved to orconverted coastal habitat.Remaining damsandartificial andenhanceundevelopedmanaged topreserve designated “Natural Zone” andwouldbe to theoceanandsurrounding uplandsare surrounding themaintrailfrom thetrailhead Alternative 2. and riparianhabitatswouldberestored under programs, butwouldbemodest. Wetland stewardship,to support educationandyouth visitor facilities.Facilities couldstillbebuilt existing usesbutwithaminimallevel of would bepossible.Alternative 2wouldretain trailhead wouldbeimproved; andcamping parking andpotablewater;theOakwood facilitiesincludingrestrooms,new more upper stablesarea wouldbeimproved with – Under Alternative 1,thetrailheadand alternatives. to restore andsustainwetlands underboth a “natural zone” andwouldbemanaged stewardship activities. and removal ofallfacilitiesunlessneededfor and uplandsprotecting Redwood Creek of coastalecosystemsincludingwetlands Alternative 2callsforcontinuedrestoration here from Muir Woods. MAS’s preferred trails, andrelocating thestewardship center Tamalpais State Park, picnicareas andother development: trailconnectionstoMt. Park’s preferred Alternative 1callsformore Conzelman, Bunker andMcCullough andCronkhite Barry Forts Under bothAlternatives, thelands Tennessee Valley andOakwoodValley Muir Beach Lower Redwood CreekArea . ” Management would“highlight” coastal – This beachisdesignated –Under – The – Area andKirby Cove. In eacharea, MAS around Panoramic Highway, Capehart Housing Marin CityRidge,Gerbode Valley, areas Golden (formerBanducci Gate Dairy Ranch), restricted todesignatedtrails. visitor usewouldbehighlycontrolled and coastal resources and (missionbluebutterfly) would bemanagedtoprotect andrestore lands immediatelyoutsideoftheroad corridor Alternative 2isthesameas1except thatwith2 opportunity torestoreopportunity theBay, endangered Diked historicbaylandsofferthebest baylands, precluding future marshrestoration. project wouldfillandbuildondiked historic endangered speciesandclimate change. The Gallinas Creek, baylands,habitat,wildlifeand to opposethisproject: impactsonthebay, rails. than 20years experiencesurveying is arecognized withmore clapperrailexpert Associates did.Jules Evens ofAvocet Research of theproject sitewhereas Avocet Research did notfindclapperrailsalongtheshoreline Associates, endangered speciessurvey. Monk defend theapplicant’s consultant,Monk and lengthy andexcessively to detailedinitseffort Avocet Research’s comments ontheDEIRwere wants theproject. consultants, whichindicatestousthatthecity thedevelopment anddefendedthe supported (Lampier Gregory) responses tocomments traffic. The majorityoftheFEIRconsultant’s impacts, andeffectsoflighting,noise, including wildlife,habitatandflooding meetings, thatraisedavariety ofconcerns testimony madeatPlanning Commission EIR. There were 77writtencomments,plus (FEIR) responds tocommentsontheDraft comments. information onameetingdateordeadlinefor deadline, theCityhasnotprovided any bayland isoutforreview. Asofthisnewsletter oftheSan diked on aportion RafaelAirport plus twooutdoorsoccerfieldsandparking lot this 17,000square building footindoorsports The Final Environmental Impact Report for SAN RAFAEL AIRPORTRECREATIONAL FACILITY goga by November 11. 94123 oronlineathttp:/parkplanning.nps.gov/ Building 201,Fort Mason, San Francisco, CA Recreation Area, Attn: Draft GMP/EIS, Superintendent, Golden Gate National public use. increased development, whileallowing limited protection ofhabitatsandnative speciesover prefers Alternative 2becauseitemphasizes The Draft Plan alsocovers Slide Ranch, There are manyenvironmental reasons In particular, theresponse toMAS’s and The Final Environmental Impact Report Submit written comments to: continued onpage 6

Frank Dean, Kiara Wade McMurdo, LindaNicoletto, Lowell Sykes, Foss, BobHinz, LuisF. Martinez,Prem Bartschat, Vera DeFerrari, Scott Debbie Ablin, CristineAlbert,Kate VOLUNTEERS: THANKS TOOURSTEWARDSHIP Lee andKent Fitzgerald, Maria Mangold FOLLOWING FORTHEIRDONATIONS: MARIN AUDUBONTHANKSTHE Windom, Tess Zimmer Dora D. Williams, EmelieWilson, Patricia Taylor, LucyVanpelt, LaureenWelting, Erica Rudolph, SusanStewart, Janice Valerie Renwick, ColetteRiegelmayer, Nolan, E.J.O’Neil, DeborahPhillips, Marie Martin,AnneG.Montgomery, Fiona L. Kunkel, AliceLong, JohnMaggiora, Glenna M.JoeViolette, EthelKirk, Mary Michelle Javrotsky, Edward P. Jepsen, Hollingshead, JanetJacobs-Frithiof, Hazelhurst, MariaHobbs, James Hastings,Hartka, Will&Morla Karen Hanson, JoanM.Harter, Jason&Gail Faruque, RichardE.Flathman, Jane Dwelly, Farrell, Robert Faisal &Amy Cronk, HeinzDreier, V. &E.Neumann Bogetz, MichaelBudwig, & JudyMorris Celeste Binnings, AdamBoers, Karen WELCOME NEWMEMBERS: Natural ResourceSystems/Resource DECEMBER 1, 2011 hearings Built Environment andAgriculture issuesfromSocioeconomic,Carryover NOVEMBER 7, 2011;10AMTO5PM tions requestformorereview time: response toenvironmental organiza The schedulehasbeenrevised in PLAN COASTAL LOCAL THE FOR CHANGES SCHEDULE stepand therearelotsofholes. first agency,a regulatory big itisnotavery addressing climatechangeimpactsby earlier, stepin althoughafirst groups spoke. Aswe have reported of theAmendment–noenvironmental oriented organizations spoke in support Representatives offourdevelopment- been debatedforthreeyears. Amendment totheBay Planthathad to approve theClimateChange Commission votedunanimously(24-0) The Bay Conservation and Development BCDC THE BY ADOPTED POLICIES CHANGE CLIMATE Standards hearingsandothertopics Systems/Resource Management over issuesfromNatural Carry JANUARY 9, 2012 Management Standards NOVEMBER 2011 NOVEMBER

- 5 Thank You! thursday, december 15 and saturday, december 31

HABITAT STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM

Early October rain has put enough Christmas Bird Counts moisture into the ground to help both Please join us this year in one of Marin Audubon’s favorite traditions: The Christmas Bird Count. our native plants and the invaders. Planting season will begin soon when CHEEP THRILLS CBC, THURSDAY, DECEMBER 15 SIGN UP NOW! there has been more rain, but it is This count was conducted from 1978 to 1987, Our counts will take place on December 15 always time to remove some of the and this year we’re starting it up again. It covers and 31, regardless of the weather. You can sign non-natives. A little moisture in the the following important birding areas: Mount up for either of the counts (or both) by e-mail soil makes the task of digging and Burdell, Stafford Lake, Bahia, Rush Creek, or by filling out our Web form. No Internet pulling some invasive species just a Indian Valley, and some of the . access? Sign up by calling Susan or Mark. little easier, and cool weather keeps The southern edge of this circle is at the E-mail: [email protected] our hard-working volunteers more intersection of Nicasio Valley Road and Lucas Web: marinaudubon.org/cbc_form.php comfortable. Help us tip the balance Valley Road and the center is on Mount Burdell, Phone: Mark Forney 415/847-2837 or toward Mimulus, Leymus and Baccharis so this count will include some of San Rafael, all Susan Kelly 415/497-4240 on one of our work days. We have the of Novato, and a chunk of . CHEEP THRILLS CBC COMPILATION DINNER tools and gloves. We generally work SOUTHERN MARIN CBC, SATURDAY, DECEMBER 31 This dinner will be held from 5 to 8 pm at until about 1 PM, but even an hour is This is the count Marin Audubon has been the Bahia Clubhouse on 3008 Topaz Drive, valuable help. Everyone is welcome. successfully conducting for over 35 years, Novato. We’ll serve vegetarian pizza and salads, and it’s one of the top counts in the country and you can pay at the door. VOLUNTEER WORK DAYS in both the number of species seen and SOUTHERN MARIN CBC COMPILATION DINNER Triangle Marsh, Corte Madera: number of participants. It covers these areas: Reservations and Advance Payment Required First Saturdays: November 5, , Audubon Canyon, Stinson The vegetarian dinner will be held from 5:30 December 3 Beach, Muir Beach, Fort Cronkhite, Muir to 8:30 pm at the Tamalpais Valley Community Woods, Tennessee Valley, Sausalito, Tiburon, Meet at 10 AM on Paradise Drive Center at 203 Marin Avenue in Mill Valley. Ring Mountain, Mill Valley, Corte Madera, We encourage you to attend even if you aren’t directly across from the main Ring Larkspur, Alpine Lake, Bon Tempe, Phoenix purchasing a dinner. Also, please bring a dessert Mountain trailhead. Lake, Rock Springs, Fairfax, and some sections to share. of San Rafael, including Terra Linda. Bahia, Novato: How to Reserve a Dinner: You will not be Second Saturday: November 12 CBC WORKSHOP able to purchase a dinner at the door this year. CBC compilers Mark Forney and Susan Kelly Instead, you must pay by check and mail it in Wednesdays, November 2, November 16 will be conducting an informational workshop advance. Make your check for $14 per person Thursdays, November 10, December 1 for CBC volunteers at 10 a.m. on Saturday, payable to “Marin Audubon Society” and We will meet at 10 AM at the end December 3 at Richardson Bay Audubon mail it by December 20th to Marin Audubon of Topaz Drive near Bolero Court Center, 376 Greenwood Beach Road in Society, Attention Mary Anne Cowperthwaite, and the tennis courts. Tiburon. It will include an indoor presentation/ P.O. Box 599, Mill Valley, CA 94942-0599. If you would like to help, please contact discussion and an optional field trip where we’ll Please include the following information: Bob Hinz at [email protected] or practice identifying common birds. Both new Name(s) of the individual(s) you are paying for, and experienced volunteers are welcome. If you a contact e-mail, a mailing address and a phone 415/383-8688. plan to stay for the field trip, bring a lunch. number.

of use) this project would bring considerably PLEASE ATTEND! Conservation continued from page 5 more people and noise to the south bank of You are urged to attend the next Marin the creek, that currently is not well used. This Parks “Road and Trail Management species habitat and tidal marshlands, and are would significantly increase the cumulative the best defense against sea level rise. Furthermore, Plan” Workshop on Saturday, October impacts to Clapper Rails and other wildlife, any development in the baylands would be at including the endangered salt marsh harvest 29, 10 AM to 12:30 PM. This is the risk from flooding and sea level rise. For these mouse which is known to seek refuge more fourth in the series of Workshops reasons, Baylands should be reserved for future than 100 feet from its tidal marsh habitat conducted by Marin County Parks. restoration to maintain Bay resources and during extreme high tides. This could bring Scheduled for discussion are: compensate for losses of existing tidal marshes them into the project site. the range of alternatives for the that will be inundated sea level rise. Soccer may be a popular sport but this Management Plan and updates on the The development would cause adverse massive project is simply in the wrong place. assessment and responses to public impacts to endangered species and their To comment: Look on the City of San comment on trail use. The Workshop habitat. It would bring many more people, Rafael’s Web site (cityofsanrafael.org) for the will be held at the Marin County Health noise, soccer balls and litter close to the marsh. public hearing date or send a letter to the city: and Wellness Center Campus, 3240 No matter how heavily used the trail on the Craig Tambornini, Planning Department, City Kerner Blvd, San Rafael. north side of the Creek may be, (comments of San Rafael, 1400 Fifth Avenue, San Rafael, in the FEIR reported both high and low levels CA 94901.

6 THE CLAPPER RAIL Marin Birdlog – September 2o11 By Rich Stallcup Junior Because there are more birds on-the-move than at any other time, September is the best month of the year for many birders. Bird Watchers Long distance migrants with faulty genetic compasses (all juveniles) or environmental By Wendy Dreskin irregularities (like missing rectrices) appear in places far from where they should be, like the coast Junior Bird Watchers is an of California. While rare birds were found throughout the month, September 2011 showed total in-school program designed to numbers and species diversity way below what we have come to expect. teach elementary school children American Redstart, Tennessee, Prairie, Blackpoll, Palm, Chestnut-sided and Magnolia to identify birds in their neighbor- Warblers appeared on the O.P. when the weather was right (overcast with breeze from anywhere hoods. The program was developed but northwest) as expected but other regulars didn’t show. by National Audubon Society The rarest wood warbler, either a Mourning or a Connecticut is still being debated and delightfully (NAS). When NAS discontinued demonstrates that we don’t know as much as the program, Marin Audubon we thought. The only other rare warbler was a assumed sponsorship and Wendy female Cape May at Drake’s Monument 9/14 Dreskin continues as the instruc- to 9/25, an unusually long stay. tor, conducting the program in Away from Point Reyes an Ovenbird was classrooms at several elementary banded at Bolinas 9/24 (PRBO), and a male schools. If you would like more pbase.com/gtepke Black-and-White Warbler was seen near Rodeo information, please visit “Junior

Tepke, Lagoon 9/26 (WL). Birdwatchers” under the “Birds” Philadelphia Vireo Glen A fine, bright young of

tab on our web site at marinaudu- banded near Muir Beach 9/26 (PRBO) was, bon.org, or contact Wendy

courtesy surprisingly, the only rare individual of its family. Dreskin at 415/457-3949. An Orchard Oriole in the New Willows and Photo Ovenbird a Blue Grosbeak at the Fish Docks both 9/17 Bacich student Pierre Beaurang were nice finds. is the first third grader to become an 8th Northern Mockingbirds are rare migrants at many spots on the coast so one at the Point Reyes grade Junior Bird Watcher! He learned Lighthouse 9/12 and one at Schooner Bay 9/25 were of interest. 90 birds. He Eastern Kingbirds were the only vagrant species found in above average numbers. The “famous” is looking one, chased by many birders was at Las Gallinas 9/10 to 9/17, and one at Bolinas 9/9 (LS) and one forward to the PRBO Bird- on Point Reyes 9/10 (fide LH) were seen by only one human each. a-thon this At Hawk Hill in the Marin Headlands 9/26 it was a great day with 26 Broad-winged Hawks and October where 43 Black Swifts! (GGRO). A young Northern Goshawk was seen by an experienced observer (JK) he hope to there 9/20—rare and early. raise money for his team Observers Sara Acosta, Bob Battagin, Tim Behr, Mark Butler, Heather Cameron, Renee Cormier, Todd Easterla, and get some Jules Evans, Allen Fish, Mary Anne Flett, Golden Gate Raptor Observatory, John Keane, Jill Harley, Lisa Hug, life birds! Logan Kahle, William Legge, Jeff Miller, Outer Point Reyes, Claire Peaslee, PRBO Conservation Science, Mary Anne Rotella, Rich Stallcup, Lynn Stenzel, Scott Terrill, Linda Terrill, Janice Tweedy, Hilary Winslow Bacich 3rd grader Jesa San Andres became a Junior Bird Watcher last Drakes Estero REPEAL SMART EFFORT UNDERWAY year and is continued from page 2 continuing his Marin Audubon Society has consistently nature studies is important. Ask NPS to select Alternative A as this year as a opposed SMART primarily because of its 4th grader. the recommended preferred alternative. If you environmental damage. A citizens group have time, you can add more comments and explanation. The key thing is to register your RepealSMART has begun efforts to collect support for Alternative A. signatures to repeal the measure that Cecilia Berardi was a second You may provide comments using one of the grader at St. Rita School when she approved the SMART project. That group is became a following methods: Junior Birder. • Comment online at http://parkplanning. collecting signatures to qualify an initiative She is in the third grade nps.gov/pore. Click on “Open For Comment”, to repeal Measure Q, the ¼ cent SMART this year. then click on “Draft EIS DBOC SUP” and sales tax. They are collecting signatures finally, click on “Comment on Document.” at the Marin County Farmers Market on • You may also mail or hand deliver comments to: Draft EIS DBOC SUP c/o Superintendent, Sundays and possibly at other locations.

Point Reyes National Seashore, 1 Bear Valley We urge you to sign. Road, Point Reyes Station, CA 94956.

NOVEMBER 2011 7 SAVE THE DATE November 17-20 Central Valley Birding Symposium Stockton, cvbs.org A non-MAS event December 10 Field Trip West Coast Water Birds With Jim White December 15 Northern Marin Christmas Bird Count December 31 Southern Marin Christmas Bird Count

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SUPPORT MARIN AUDUBON SOCIETY The success of Marin Audubon Society’s (MAS) work Join or Donate to the Marin Audubon Society depends greatly on its chapter members. We work collaboratively with the National Audubon Society Please fill in this form and mail to the address below. If you are paying by check, please make it payable (NAS) on issues of mutual concern, but very little of to Marin Audubon Society. For more information, please contact Ruth Pratt, Membership Chair at our funding comes from NAS. MAS relies on local 415/453-2989. support for our habitat protection efforts, conservation advocacy, birding field trips, educational speakers n Enroll me as a series, and publication of The Clapper Rail, which you Local Chapter Member name will receive as a MAS member. To better ensure we can n Renewal continue our programs on the local level, MAS offers address a separate chapter membership. Your membership in n New Member MAS will help us protect local habitats, resident and n migratory birds and provide you with educational and $1,000 Benefactor city state zip enjoyable programs as well. n $500 Patron If you are not already a chapter member, we urge you n e-mail telephone to join MAS and urge your friends, neighbors, relatives $100 Sustaining to join us, too. n $50 Sponsor n n $25 Basic This is a Gift Membership from: You can also join or make a donation on our n web site using your credit card or PayPal. Please Please accept my donation go to marinaudubon.org. in the amount of $ n Please send me The Clapper Rail by e-mail only. JOINT NAS-MAS MEMBERSHIP A National Audubon Society Membership is a joint membership with National and the chapter. With this n Master Card Payment by Credit Card: joint membership, you will receive our newsletter n Visa and other chapter benefits, however, MAS receives no portion of your National Audubon Membership name on credit card dues. We receive a fixed amount based on our 2001 Fill out form and mail to: membership. We will receive, however, a portion of Membership Secretary credit card no. expiration date any new memberships that are generated by MAS, the local chapter. So we request that you send all Marin Audubon Society checks for new National memberships to: Marin P.O. Box 599 signature Audubon Society, P.O. Box 599, Mill Valley, CA 94942. Mill Valley, CA 94942 For NAS membership renewals, send your check directly to NAS.

8 NOVEMBER 2011