Bolsa Chica Conservancy
PROGRAMS
Volunteer and Outreach
In collaboration with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) and the California Department of Parks and Recreation, the Bolsa Chica Conservancy (BCC) launched Eyes On Nest Sites (EONS) in 2010 to monitor nesting success of the endangered California Least Tern and threatened Western Snowy Plover colonies at the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Running from March to August, EONS is designed to be an immersive program that engages the public to learn more about nesting birds and the wildlife at Bolsa Chica by observing birds during their breeding season and collecting data. Additionally volunteers can participate in multiple wildlife monitoring and community science opportunities in addition to helping at annual events and providing public outreach from the Bolsa Chica Interpretive Center.
Through EONS students and the general public will observe nesting birds and wildlife activity and their integral role within the wetlands. We hope that this experience will inspire the public and raise awareness of the importance of nesting grounds and wetland habitats, as well as increasing our knowledge by collecting relevant biological field data to better understand the needs, challenges and threats to these species.
Education and Interpretation
Our Education and Interpretation Programs are hands-on science programs that expose K-12 students to the real-life study and exploration of ecosystems. Participants learn about ecology, ecosystem functions and habitat restoration through on-site tours and field lab activities to study water quality, plant habitats, and planktonic populations at the wetlands. These program are available year-round for K-12 school students and the public as Expert Guided tours, classes, Wetlands on Wheels Outreach programs, and Camps.
Students involved in these programs will develop critical thinking and research skills that will aid them in pursuit of higher education in biology, environmental conservation, conservation biology, or environmental policy.
Restoration and Research
Our restoration and research programs help to protect sensitive wetland habitat and coastal ecosystems nearby the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. The Bolsa Chica Conservancy works to restore 9.65 acres of land near Harriett Wieder Regional Park and will be working to expand that restoration site to the surrounding 40 acres in 2025. Additionally, research and community science monitoring programs help to collect critical data on the health of plant communities and wildlife populations to support management agencies in developing regulatory action to protect Bolsa Chica.
These programs are the bread and butter that connect to why we care about this place so much and then allow us to share that with all who participate.
CONTACT
Bolsa Chica Conservancy
3842 Warner Avenue
Huntington Beach, CA 92649
Carissa Macias
Phone: 714-846-1114