Bay Area Reservoirs and Recreational Areas

July 1, 2003 •  by

There are quite a few reservoirs and artificial lakes in and around the Bay Area that are open to the public for a variety of recreational acitivities. Following is a listing of many of these which, while not necessarily comprehensive, … Read more

Elkhorn Slough: Further Exploration

July 1, 2003 •  by

There are two kayak launch sites for Elkhorn Slough: Kirby Park and Moss Landing Harbor District Launch Site (just north of Moss Landing). You can rent kayaks at the latter site. Be sure to check tide and weather conditions before … Read more

Exploring the Marin Headlands

July 1, 2003 •  by

To familiarize yourself with all the Marin Headlands have to offer, start at the National Park Service’s Marin Headlands Visitor Center. There, browse their historical and natural history exhibits, tap into their educational resources on the Miwok Indians or the … Read more

More Dams Coming?

July 1, 2003 •  by

Despite their recreational and functional value, most reservoirs come at a cost. To build a reservoir, we must drown a valley. In the Bay Area, that probably entails flooding valuable wildlife habitat, such as oak woodlands, vernal pools, and riparian … Read more

Update: Sea Otter Census Numbers Rise

July 1, 2003 •  by

Since our story went to press, there’s been some good news for the Southern Sea Otter: census numbers for the California population soared by 17 percent since last year. More than 2,500 otters were counted off our coast this spring, … Read more

Camping in the Bay Area

April 1, 2003 •  by

This spring, plan a sleepover date with nature right here. With dozens of campgrounds within easy commuting distance, Bay Area residents have plenty of options for stealing away for a refreshing night out in the wild. Do you want to camp in the redwoods? Spend a night on the coast? Or greet the sunrise in a field of ancient oaks? Why not all three?

Hidden Treasures of the Harbor

April 1, 2003 •  by

Below the opaque surface of the calm waters of Richmond and Sausalito Harbors lies an unexpected world of curious forms, brilliant colors, and furious competition for a place to hold on.

Letter from the Publisher

April 1, 2003 •  by

This is the time of year—that porous border between winter and spring—that I look forward to the most. As I write this in early March, bird songs greet me in the morning, wildflowers are emerging on green hillsides, and it … Read more

On Sacred Places

April 1, 2003 •  by

Tom Smith. A simple name. Not so the man. My great-great-grand-father. Father and grandfather and great-grandfather to many Coast Miwok and Pomo people. I’ve told stories about him, stories I have heard, stories others tell: how he performed miracles healing … Read more