Bolinas Lagoon: A Restoration Story

Bolinas Lagoon, a United Nations designated Wetland of International Importance located within Greater Farallones National Marine Sanctuary, provides rich habitat for shorebirds, waterfowl, fish, marine mammals, and invertebrates. Commercial fishermen, local residents, and visiting tourists are drawn to its beauty and wildlife. Unfortunately, historical land uses altered the shoreline and watershed, threatening the health of the lagoon and the businesses, people, and organisms that depend on it. Decades of grassroots efforts to protect Bolinas Lagoon gained national attention and led to current restoration efforts. Today, through sound science, community support, and collaborative planning, sanctuary managers and partners are actively implementing projects that protect the lagoon while helping it adapt to changes.

volunteer take a break from clean up to pose for the camera — University of San Francisco students volunteer for the Kent Island restoration project. Photo: Kate Bimrose/Greater Farallones Association

harbor seals resting on the beach — Harbor seals. Photo: May Chen

Aerial shot of Bolinas Lagoon. Photo: LightHawk and Bob Wilson

volunteer holds up non-native species he removed during a clean up — Staff from Greater Farallones NMS and their partners participate in an annual staff day to remove non-native species from Kent Island. Photo: Kate Bimrose/Greater Farallones Association

Marbled godwit on the water — Marbled godwit. Photo: Len Blumin

sanderling walking along the beach — Sanderling. Photo: Len Blumin