The goal of this restoration project is to restore the 123 acre degraded wetland habitat to historic tidal conditions and maximize wetland and wildlife habitat while allowing for compatible land uses on the site. The restoration plan was completed in 2004 and provides a framework for this goal, including satisfying the mitigation pbjectives, providing public access, connecting existing trails and offering environmental education opportunities. Once restored, this property will provide valuable habitat for ten listed species and tidal flow will be restored to what is now diked and filled land. Currently, the partners are seeking funding for the restoration project and working with neighboring property owners on other acquisition opportunities.
The Pacheco Marsh property has been filled, scraped and degraded by previous owners, resulting in the elimination of quality salt marsh habitat. The 2004 restoration plan by Phillip Williams & Associates (PWA) calls for restoring the property to full tidal flow by dredging historic channels, breaking levees and expanding culverts. The Pacheco Marsh Technical Advisory Committee chose this option to create the most tidal marsh while reducing the long-term operating costs of the property. Since quality habitat exists in the neighboring wetlands, the restoration would increase connectiviity for ten special status plant and animal species including the Salt-Marsh Harvest Mouse.
The three main goals of this project are to:
1) Maximize habitat value for diverse wildlife in a cost efficient manner by restoring self-sustaining tidal marsh functions and structure to the maximum extent possible.
2) Enhance the quality and quantity of habitat for the 10 special status species likely to occur on site.
3) Enhance public education and resource interpretation, and allow for a staging area for future projects that may include a trail segment to connect the EBRPD Iron Horse Trail and the Bay Trail.
Habitat Protection, Habitat Restoration, Wetlands, Salt marshes
Ecosystem Restoration,
Environmental and habitat protection and improvement,
Flood management,
Recreation and public access,
Storm water capture and management,
Wetlands enhancement and creation
