Bolinas Lagoon, an ecological gem in the Marin County Parks system, is undergoing an evolution that needs attention. An annual event coming up Sept. 19 with presentations focusing on major issues affecting the lagoon and its restoration.
In partnership with the Bolinas Lagoon Advisory Council, the Gulf of the Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, the Golden Gate National Recreation Area and Point Reyes National Seashore, Marin County Parks will host a “State of Bolinas Lagoon” conference on Thursday, Sept. 19, from 6-8 p.m. at the Stinson Beach Community Center, 32 Belvedere Ave., Stinson Beach.
One of the most pristine tidal lagoon systems in the state, the lagoon is a wondrous place to view herons and egrets in the morning light. Its habitats support a complex and globally rare web of life. The lagoon supports several endangered species including coho salmon, steelhead trout, and red-legged frogs, provides resting areas for migratory birds, and haul-out areas for harbor seals. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has designated Bolinas Lagoon as a Wetland of International Importance.
However, the habitats are threatened by human activities and nonnative plant and animal invasions.
“It is critically important that we understand the natural regimes of the lagoon, how they are changing, why, and what we can do to protect them,” said Linda Dahl, Director and General Manager of Marin County Parks.
At the event, organizers will showcase critical habitats, lagoon restoration, invasive species, oil spill response planning, sea-level rise and affects on wildlife. The conference will begin with a short film on the history of the lagoon followed by presentations by: Steve Kinsey, District 4 representative on the Marin County Board of Supervisors; Ralph Camiccia, Bolinas Lagoon Advisory Council vice chair; Maria Brown, Gulf of the Farallones, National Marine Sanctuary Superintendent; and Dahl.
The rest of the conference will be an open-house format in which visitors can browse information tables on the various lagoon issues and talk to scientists.
“This meeting is a great opportunity to connect with the community about the implementation of restoration projects, maintain their support for the effort, and learn ways for us to work together to further restore this beautiful resource,” Brown said.
For more about Bolinas Lagoon, check the Marin County Parks website.