Victory for San Diego Bay!

On June 17, 1999, the South San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge was officially dedicated, marking the realization of a long-standing community dream, lead by Environmental Health Coalition, to protect the remaining natural resources of San Diego Bay. The historic occasion was the culmination of a 20-year vision that involved a unique partnership among environmental groups, community residents and federal, state and local agencies.

The establishment of the South San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge brings San Diego into a new era of environmental protection that recognizes the environmental, social and economic value of preserving precious habitat and wildlife diversity.

The southern reaches of San Diego Bay may seem like a forlorn place to humans; the shallow waters are non-navigable by most boats, while the shorelines are a patchwork of mud flats and salt marshes.

But hundreds of species of birds and animals make their home there, including federally protected species such as the bald eagle, brown pelican, least tern, green sea turtle and peregrine falcon. More than a half-million birds use the salt ponds to nest, feed and roost, while the shallow open water is a critical wintering habitat for migratory waterfowl.

Once San Diego Bay and Mission Bay were surrounded by wetlands, and were one of the richest wildlife resources on the coast of California and Baja. But development has destroyed most of the wildlife habitat. Wintering waterfowl have declined by 90 percent. Shallows, eelgrass, mudflats and salt marshes are all gone, except in the South Bay.

Now EHC is working to ensure funding and proper management of the refuge, and to promote the San Diego Bird Festival to bring the benefits of eco-tourism to the region.

Excerpt from San Diego Union Tribune editorial, April 12, 1998

The South San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge will initially conserve 2,200 acres of significant habitat that is home to more than 560 plant and animal species, including 8 federally listed threatened and endangered species.

The new refuge is also a crucial link for hundreds of thousands of migratory birds that travel along the Pacific Coast from Alaska to South America. It is an Internationally Important Site for nesting seabirds, migrating shorebirds and wintering waterfowl. The refuge is also an essential link to other refuges and preserves within San Diego County's Multiple Species Conservation Program.

The South Bay Refuge joins more than 500 other refuge units protecting more than 93 million acres in all 50 states and territories. In the South Bay, current uses will continue during and interim planning period. Public uses, such as boating and fishing on the open water areas will continue under existing regulations. Participation by interested citizens and groups will be needed and welcomed as the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and partner agencies prepare a comprehensive management plan.

For more information on current events and activities contact Laura Hunter.