Since 2002, the Watsonville Wetlands Watch staff has visited Amesti Elementary's fifth grade classes to talk about the wetlands. After the classroom presentations, each class visits the wetlands for a field trip in the fall and spring to learn about water quality, making observations, birds, and restoration. Read more.

The Pacific Forest and Watershed Lands Stewardship Council recently awarded the Watch $30,000 for Wetland Stewards, our after-school environmental program. The Council was impressed that the program empowers Watsonville teens to collect and analyze environmental data as a way to develop a personal connection to the unique wetlands in their community. Working side by side with scientists, docents, and peer mentors, teens explore the great outdoors, develop their own wetland projects, and learn about green careers. They also become empowered to assume leadership roles to mentor other youth in outdoor wetland activities.

On October 2nd, the Watch held its 2nd plant sale, raising over $500 to support education and restoration programs. An incredible group of Garden Club and other volunteers committed time to this project. Some of the features of Plant Sale Day were native plants for sale, information on propagation, invasive species education, native plantings, discussions, and informational brochures. Approximately 50 people attended, and a great time was had by all. Many thanks to all the volunteers who made this event a big success!

Would you like to be more involved in supporting Watch activities? Become a docent! Docents assist in the classroom, the library, on field trips, and in many other ways. Above we see docent Bill Best guiding students on a field trip. For more information, contact Kathy Fieberling, Volunteer Coordinator, att kathyfieb@yahoo.com or 345-1226.

“Bird Count Headed Online.” This was the headline from the October 12th Mid-County Post article about Project Tierra, which highlighted the project’s long-term tracking of bird populations. Read the article here.

  On Saturday, October 16th, the Watch held its 3rd annual Back to School Brunch. This event caters to community members who have some familiarity with Watch activities, giving them an opportunity to meet students, learn from special guests, and consider a pledge of support. Above we see Speaker Robert Ketley, who provided an informative talk about WWW accomplishments and City collaboration, keeping the audience engaged with his humorous comments; and students Rosemary Alvarez and Brenda Hermosillo getting ready to serve plates dished up by docent Pam Harris. Watch for next year's Brunch invitation in your mailbox!

You can support our work to protect, restore, and foster appreciation of the wetlands. Look for WWW's year-end appeal letter in your mailbox, or contribute online on our website. Mail donations can be sent to WWW, P.O. Box 1239, Freedom, CA 95019. Contributions are tax-deductible in accordance with IRS rules for non-profit organizations and are greatly appreciated.