Marin wetlands proposed for federal reserve expansion

Two of Marin County’s largest wetlands could become part of a federal reserve under a proposal by a group of U.S. lawmakers.

Reps. John Garamendi, Jared Huffman and Mike Thompson — Democrats who represent counties in the North Bay — are drafting legislation that would expand the San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge by nearly 7,000 acres. Among the areas proposed for inclusion are more than 2,000 acres of state-managed wetlands near the Bel Marin Keys and Hamilton areas of Novato.

“The San Pablo Bay Wildlife Refuge is home to some of the North Bay’s most vital habitats — serving as a safe haven for threatened species, increasing the region’s climate resiliency and providing outdoor recreation opportunities for folks in the Bay Area,” said Huffman, a San Rafael resident. “As a time-tested proponent of land conservation, I think this area is the perfect candidate for expansion.”

Established in 1974 and managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the refuge encompasses more than 24,000 acres of habitat and bay waters in Sonoma, Napa and Solano counties for the protection of migratory birds, endangered species and wetlands. The refuge also allows for recreational activities, including fishing and hunting in some areas.

The last time the refuge was expanded was in 2011 with the addition of 4,200 acres, according to the refuge. The nearly 7,000-acre expansion proposed under the draft bill would be one of the refuge’s largest expansions since its formation and would expand protections in Sonoma and Solano counties as well as add Marin habitat for the first time.

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By:  Will Houston
Source: Marin IJ

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