The Wonders of Wavecrest: A guided tour

Join the Coastside Land Trust for an immersive journey through the breathtaking Wavecrest Open Space. Led by our expert team, this guided tour will explore the rich history of Wavecrest and introduce you to the diverse flora and fauna of the coastal prairie—including local birds and vibrant spring blooms.

The Wonders of Wavecrest: A Guided Tour

Saturday, April 5, 2025

10:00 AM 12:00 PM

Participants will also have the unique opportunity to engage in a nature journaling session, guided by our Junior Land Stewards Program Manager, to deepen their connection with this stunning landscape,

Tickets are limited. All ages welcome and encouraged!

Wildfire And The Coast Webinar Recording

WIldfire and the coast

Presented by Timothy Federal

Saturday the Coastside Land Trust welcomed Timothy Federal of the San Mateo Resource Conservation District to discuss the pressing issues of wildfire management, habitat restoration, and climate resilience on the Coastside. This was a unique opportunity to learn about the historical and current state of fire practices in our region, including how seasonality impacts local ecosystems, and how these practices compare to other areas. We explored an exciting new fire reduction project taking place in the Wavecrest Open Space—an effort carefully designed to reduce wildfire risk while protecting the sensitive monarch butterfly migratory habitat.

Donate to support the Coastside Land Trust free webinar programs and the protection and stewardship of our shared open spaces at www.coastsidelandtrust.org/donate.

Junior Land Stewards Dive Into the Science of Pollination via Flower Dissections

Within the Junior Land Stewards Program, students are exploring the intricacies of plant systems. Recently, they had the opportunity to dive deeper into the world of plants through flower dissection. This hands-on experience sparked curiosity among our 4th-grade participants and provided them with answers to some common questions about flowers, pollination, and plant reproduction.

Here is a note from Haley Peterson, Junior Land Stewards Program Manager:

During our flower dissection, students were able to answer the following burning questions:

• Why do plants produce flowers?

• What is the purpose of nectar?

• Why are there brightly colored petals?

• What is the purpose of a sepal?

• Where does pollen come from and what does it do?

• What has to happen for a seed to grow?

• Why are we doing this work, and what purpose do our pollinator gardens serve?

Students talked about plants as food, shelter, seeds, and reproduction.We dissected flowering maples, daffodils, and African corn flag flowers. The 4th graders discovered that, although each flower was very different, they all had the parts that make up a flower and allow for pollination and reproduction. By using hand microscopes, the Junior Land Stewards were able to take an even closer look at their flowers.

We are excited to get back out into the field next week and see if any of our California native plants have started producing flowers!

This program is supported by your generous support, as well as The California Coastal Commission's WHALE TAIL® Grant and the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation.

Donate to support the Junior Land Stewards Program, connecting our local Coastside students to the natural world, and guiding them in stewardship of their local open spaces.

The Wonders of Wavecrest: A Guided Walk- coming soon!!

Join the Coastside Land Trust for an immersive journey through the breathtaking Wavecrest Open Space!

Led by our expert team, this guided tour will take you through the rich history of Wavecrest while introducing you to the diverse flora and fauna of the coastal prairie—including local birds and vibrant spring blooms.

You’ll also have the unique opportunity to participate in a nature journaling session to deepen your connection to this stunning landscape.

Here’s a sneak peek at the day’s activities:

Wavecrest Plant Exploration with Barbara Dye
Exploring the fascinating world of the Wavecrest plants, learning about their history and the crucial role they play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem.

Wildlife Exploration with Malia DeFelice
Getting up close to the local wildlife, including owls, kites, harriers, and white-crowned sparrows. Who knows what other exciting species we might encounter along the way?

Nature Journaling Activity with Haley Peterson & Kate Dickey
All groups will come together for an interactive nature journaling session. Engage your senses with a sound mapping exercise and reflect on your experience through journaling.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with nature, wildlife, and fellow nature enthusiasts. Reserve your spot today!

Thank you Habitat Heroes!

A big thank you to our amazing volunteers – Vicky, Lisa (and Skipper the dog!), Carol, Robin, Barbara D, and Barbara L – for making the third Habitat Heroes Workday on Saturday, March 8th at Strawberry Point such a success!

The weather and scenery were spectacular and it was very satisfying and surprisingly easy work pulling the long snakes of ice plant out of the lovely mix of native plants near the bluff edges. Removing the mats of ice plant was much more challenging, but still satisfying because we took out the patches completely -- go team!! –and we uncovered native wild strawberry plants growing under one of the ice plant patches... strawberries at Strawberry Point.

2024 Annual Report is Here!

We're excited to announce that the Coastside Land Trust 2024 Annual Report is fresh off the press and ready for all to read!

This year we're proud to share our accomplishments, milestones, and the impact we've made in protecting our shared open space lands of the Coastside. From habitat restoration to community engagement, it's been a year of good work and significant progress, and we can't wait to share it with you.

Check out this full report to learn more about how your support is making a difference.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with us!

Junior Land Stewards- Word from the field

Over the last couple of weeks the Junior Land Stewards headed into the field to plant over 400 native California plants at Wavecrest Open Space, El Granada Elementary, and Farallone View Elementary. The weather was mostly kind, with plenty of sunshine, but the students were prepared to work no matter what nature had in store.

During the project, students reflected on why they were planting native species and how these plants will benefit the landscape and local wildlife. They planted gum plant, seaside daisy, Douglas iris, coast buckwheat, blue-eyed grass, lupine, bee plant, monkey flower, prunella, and many more.

High school students from the Marine Ecology and AP Environmental Science classes worked alongside the younger students, helping with the planting and seed broadcasting. The collaboration between the high school and 4th grade students added another layer to the experience, as the older students shared what they’ve learned about local ecosystems.

The experience wasn’t just about planting—there were also moments of connection with the natural world. The first group at Wavecrest was lucky enough to spot a trio of great horned owls, calling to each other from the pine trees. Later groups saw several hawks, including one that caught a gopher at El Granada Elementary, a reminder of the interconnections in the local food chain.

This hands-on work not only helps the students understand the role of native plants but also gives them a chance to contribute to the landscape in a tangible way. We’re looking forward to seeing how these plants grow in the seasons to come.

This program is supported by your generous support, as well as The California Coastal Commission's WHALE TAIL® Grant and the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation.

Donate to support the Junior Land Stewards Program, connecting our local Coastside students to the natural world, and guiding them in stewardship of their local open spaces.

Habitat Heroes Are At It Again!

Yesterday the Habitat Heroes gathered at the Purissima Old Town Site (POTS) for a productive workday in the meadow. With seven volunteers, along with our Sara Polgar and board president Barbara Lohman, they focused on removing invasive plants that were threatening the local ecosystem.

The main task was pulling cape ivy, which was smothering coffee berry shrubs and creeping into the meadow. Two volunteers also tackled poison hemlock and thistle, which were sprouting in the meadow. By the end of the day, they had all made significant progress in clearing these invasive plants.

The habitat heroes described the weather as “perfect”—sunny and mild—and the birds provided a soundtrack for the morning. The work team was even treated to the sight of hawks circling above at the start, and the hoot of a great-horned owl near the end of their work time.

It was a successful and rewarding day of conservation, and we’re grateful to all the volunteers who made it possible. Clearly nobody was having any fun…

First Monitoring Session of the Season at the Coastside Land Trust

Photographed by Barbara Dye

We’re excited to share that the Coastside Land Trust has kicked off our first monitoring session of the season! A big thank you to Robin Arkell, Barbara Lohman, Barbara Dye, and Alane Gray, who set out on this first session, bringing their collective wisdom and experience. They began in the beautiful El Granada Monitoring Area, a lovely canyon rich in thick willows and teeming with wildlife. It was a perfect start to what we hope will be a season filled with valuable insights and continued conservation efforts.

Photographed by Barbara Dye

During this session, the team observed a variety of wildlife and plant species, including the Hermit Thrush and Red Elderberry. The willows were in bloom, adding to the natural beauty of the area. Thank you to Barbara Dye for sharing these photos from their monitoring.

Stay tuned for more updates from our monitoring efforts!

Thank You to the Community for Supporting Local Artists at the Coastside Land Trust Winter Art Show

On Friday night, the Coastside Land Trust Gallery was alive with color, creativity, and inspiration as we celebrated the incredible talent of Half Moon Bay High School’s art students at the Coastside Land Trust Winter Art Show. The evening was a true testament to the power of art and community, and we are deeply grateful to all of you who came out to support our local artists.

This art show, in collaboration with the gifted art instructor Janelle Bracamonte, showcased the whimsical mixed-media creations of her students. The young artists were given a unique challenge—one that sparked their imagination and pushed their creative boundaries. They were asked to create pieces inspired by three randomly selected components: a subject, an activity, and a place. The result? A vibrant and diverse collection of artwork that highlighted each student’s individuality and flair for artistic expression.

Sixteen talented artists were chosen to represent their work in this gallery event, and community members were amazed by the creativity, skill, and originality of these high school juniors and seniors. It was clear that the talent of these young artists is truly something special.

Board President Barbara Lohman shared that what stood out most to her was the dedication of Janelle Bracamonte to her students and the joy she takes in guiding them. That passion was certainly reflected in the beautiful work they produced.

Inside the gallery, a stunning variety of works awaited guests—each piece brought to life through the skillful use of watercolor, gouache, colored pencil, markers, and ink. The pieces were as delightful as they were thought-provoking, capturing the whimsical and imaginative worlds these talented students had crafted.

Thank you to the community for showing up and making the evening a memorable success. Your support not only helped showcase the brilliance of these young artists but also reaffirmed the vital role art plays in our lives and in shaping the future of creativity in our community.

A CLT Winter Art Show Featuring the Half Moon Bay High School Art Students TOMORROW NIGHT!

ATTENTION COASTSIDE!!!

Join us TOMORROW NIGHT for the Coastside Land Trust Winter Art Show, featuring the AMAZING artwork of Half Moon Bay High School’s Art students!

This will be from 4 to 6 PM, at the Coastside Land Trust Gallery, located at 788 Main Street, Half Moon Bay.

In collaboration with art instructor Janelle Bracamonte, these talented students were challenged to create whimsical mixed-media pieces inspired by three randomly selected components: a subject, an activity, and a place. You’ll be delighted by their beautiful, creative work—using watercolor, gouache, colored pencil, markers, and ink.

Let’s come together to celebrate and support the creativity of our local youth! See you there!

For more information, contact info@coastsidelandtrust.org

Nature Journaling Workshop Inspires CUSD Educators at Farallone View Elementary

Last Thursday, the Coastside Land Trust hosted its second Nature Journaling Teacher Workshop of the year at Farallone View Elementary School. Guided by the talented Elexis Pardon, a group of dedicated teachers explored the transformative power of nature journaling, honing their observation skills and deepening their connection to the natural world.

The workshop took place in the school’s student garden—an area funded by the PTO and filled with vibrant artichokes, colorful nasturtiums, and an array of plants lovingly tended by the students. Teachers practiced specific observation techniques, using their senses to engage with the environment around them. The session also provided an opportunity for educators to connect with the collective wisdom of the Junior Land Stewards Program, exchanging insights with teachers and managers who are passionate about integrating nature into education.

Also, nobody had any fun- as you can see from Haley Peterson’s face here…

This program is supported by your generous support, as well as The California Coastal Commission's WHALE TAIL® Grant and the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation.

Donate to support the Junior Land Stewards Program, connecting our local Coastside students to the natural world, and guiding them in stewardship of their local open spaces.

Coastside Land Trust Junior Land Stewards: Soil Labs in Action

Over the last two weeks, our Junior Land Stewards have been getting their hands dirty in the soil labs.

Students took an in-depth look at the wonders of soil—learning about its essential role in providing the food we eat and the clean air we breathe, and that without healthy soil, none of that would be possible. They explored the different components that make up soil and the critical importance of preventing soil erosion, and discussed best practices for caring for soil and how we can all help keep it healthy.

Students analyzed soil from our own garden sites. They used hand microscopes, students examined sand, silt, and clay up close, hypothesizing how much watering their plants might need in the months ahead. Students talked about how they are already practicing great stewardship to protect our precious topsoil-using a sheet mulching process in their habitat gardens. This process is helping to maintain the health of the soil and prevent erosion.

In the next two weeks students will continue to examine their garden soil and plant California native pollinator plants, giving these important species the optimal environment to thrive.

Stay tuned for more updates from our hardworking Junior Land Stewards as they continue to protect and restore our local habitats!

This program is supported by your generous support, as well as The California Coastal Commission's WHALE TAIL® Grant and the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation.

Donate to support the Junior Land Stewards Program, connecting our local Coastside students to the natural world, and guiding them in stewardship of their local open spaces.

Plant Species Explained; What does it mean to be a "species" in Castilleja?- Community Webinar Recording

Plant Species Explained

What does it mean to be a "species" in Castilleja?

Presented by Dr. Sarah Jacobs

Yesterday the Coastside Land Trust welcomed Dr. Sarah Jacobs, curator of botany at the CA Academy of Sciences, for a captivating talk on what defines a "species." Dr. Jacobs explored how new plant species emerge, and dove into the biology and ecology of the rare Coastal California Castilleja Complex- the vibrant, colorful Paintbrush plants found only along our shores.

Donate to support the Coastside Land Trust free webinar programs and the protection and stewardship of our shared open spaces at www.coastsidelandtrust.org/donate.

WHAT’S IN A NAME; PLANT SPECIES EXPLAINED- Join us this Saturday morning

WHAT’S IN A NAME; PLANT SPECIES EXPLAINED

PRESENTED BY DR. SARAH JACOBS

This Saturday, January 25, 2025

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Have you ever wondered what it means to be a “species”? Or how scientists define the unique plants that thrive along our coast? Join us for a fascinating talk from Dr. Sarah Jacobs, curator in the Botany Department at the California Academy of Sciences, as she explores the world of Castilleja—the vibrant, colorful Paintbrush plants that paint our California coast.

Dr. Jacobs will explain how new species are born in the plant world, and what it takes to understand the biology and ecology of these incredible plants. Plus, she’ll share her insights into the Coastal California Castilleja Complex—a rare and stunning group of perennial species found only along our shoreline.

Whether you’re a lifelong nature lover or new to the world of plants, this talk is a perfect opportunity to connect with the natural beauty around us. Come discover the mysteries of our coastal ecosystems and learn how you can help protect the plants that make our landscape so special.

Thank you Habitat Heroes!

A huge thank you to our incredible volunteers and board members who rolled up their sleeves and jumped into our first Habitat Heroes Workday on Saturday, January 11th, at Wavecrest Open Space! With tenacious volunteers, coupled with two dedicated CLT Board members, the group worked tirelessly to help restore vital habitat along this beautiful stretch of coastline.

The team tackled invasive ice plant that was creeping over native vegetation and threatening the area designated for the new Coastal Trail, which is set to be installed this summer. Despite drier ground conditions and strong winds, they made impressive strides—clearing much more than anticipated in a short amount of time.

Removing invasive plants is hard work, but our volunteers were up to the challenge! Their dedication ensures that native plants can thrive and that the future trail will offer visitors an uninterrupted view of the stunning coastal landscape. THANK YOU!!!

We’re excited to continue this important work and are deeply grateful to all of our Habitat Heroes for their time, energy, and commitment to protecting the coastside. If you’d like to join this amazing team, please reach out to info@coastsidelandtrust.org!

CLT Winter Art Show: "Subject, Activity, Place"- Presenting work by Half Moon Bay High School Art Students

CLT Winter Art Show: "Subject, Activity, Place"

Presenting work by Half Moon Bay High School Art Students

Please join us for the First Friday Show Opening and Artists' Reception on Friday, February 7th, 2025, from 4–6 PM at the Coastside Land Trust Gallery at 788 Main Street, Half Moon Bay.

We are excited to partner with Half Moon Bay High School art instructor Janelle Bracamonte to showcase pieces by her Art 3 class. She challenged her students to create truly original compositions, guided by three randomly picked components: a subject, an activity, and a place.

The students’ pieces are mixed media, using a combination of at least two of the following: watercolor, gouache, colored pencil, alcohol markers, and ink. The results are pure whimsy!

Finding an Old Growth Redwood Stand at Wavecrest

Photograph of Cleopatra Tuday- Biologist from SWCA Environmental Consultants

Bet we got your attention with that title! While CLT didn’t uncover actual old growth redwoods on the Wavecrest blufftops, we did discover a coastal prairie equivalent: a mature "stand" of Danthonia californica, or California oatgrass, a native bunchgrass.

In early January, biologist Cleopatra Tuday (from SWCA Environmental Consultants in Half Moon Bay) joined CLT’s Sara Polgar for a coastal trail project site project—and stumbled upon a 10’x10’ patch of this rare find. Cleo, a self-proclaimed botany nerd, was practically giddy about the discovery. As she put it, “Finding this on the coastal bluffs is like finding an old-growth redwood stand in the coastal mountains. Very old, very precious.”

She explained that you can spot Danthonia by the tripping hazard it presents—these bunch grasses create sharp, impenetrable clumps. Look for circular patches where the blades remain green even in the dry season, with grasses emerging from one central point.

Biologist Cleopatra Tuday (SWCA Environmental Consultants in Half Moon Bay) joined CLT’s Sara Polgar for a coastal trail project site visit in early January and found this 10’x10’ patch. Cleo is a botany nerd and she seemed a bit giddy about the find. As she described it, “finding this on the coastal bluffs here is like finding an old growth redwood stand in the coastal mountains. Very old, very precious.”

Also on the site visit, Sara and Cleo saw many chorus frogs (i.e. Sierran tree frogs) and even spotted their egg masses in a large puddle.

Junior Land Stewards- Word from the field

As we wrapped up the last few weeks of 2024 the Junior Land Stewards were busy in the field, as each school took its second field trip of the school year - combining ecosystem learning, journaling observation, and open space history.

Students from Hatch came to Wavecrest Open Space where they explored the 50 acres and participated in 4 journaling activities. These included: I notice, I wonder, It reminds of me; My Secret Plant; Ecosystem Inspection Circles; and Sound Mapping. Students explored life that is flourishing in the coastal prairie - from the indigenous plants to the pacific tree frogs.

El Granada students hiked up to the quarry floor at Quarry Park with a guided tour by Barbara Dye who taught them all about the history of their community, school, the Ocean Shore Railroad, as well as how Quarry Park became a protected open space. They then listened to the sounds around them and translated that into a sound map in their nature journals. Their final activity was My Secret Plant where they had to find an object in nature to draw in enough detail that their fellow classmates could find it by only looking at their drawing.

 At Farallone View, 4th graders had special guests Anthony and Jackson from the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy lead them on a guided hike through the GGNRA. Along the way they examined the changing seasonal landscape, as everything is greening up again, and saw many raptors. The ground was wet but each student had their own special sit spot mat so they could get comfortable and focus on their journaling activities.

This program is supported by your generous support, as well as The California Coastal Commission's WHALE TAIL® Grant and the Maxwell/Hanrahan Foundation.

Donate to support the Junior Land Stewards Program, connecting our local Coastside students to the natural world, and guiding them in stewardship of their local open spaces.

Happy New Year from the Coastside Land Trust

Photograph credit: Tina Mills

From creatures big and small, we thank you for your continued support of the Coastside Land Trust and our mission to preserve, protect, and enhance our shared open spaces. Wishing you and yours a very Happy New Year!

Donate to help preserve, protect, and care for our beautiful, shared open spaces.