Dear Friends of the Morro Bay National Estuary,
As 2024 draws to a close, I am proud to reflect on a year of collaboration, innovation, and measurable progress in our work to protect and restore this treasured natural resource. Our program achieved significant milestones that highlight the strength of our partnerships and the dedication of our community.
Protecting Our Waters
In 2024, we partnered with local organizations to enhance best management practices on private lands. These efforts fostered sustainable stewardship by reducing runoff, improving water quality in the creeks that flow into Morro Bay, and strengthening relationships with landowners.
We also advanced our understanding of stormwater impacts by furthering studies and implementing improvements to address one of the most pressing challenges for water quality in our region. These actions not only safeguard water resources but also build resilience against the impacts of heavy rainfall and flooding.
Recognizing the critical importance of fish passage, we began initial planning to remove a significant fish passage barrier on San Luisito Creek. This project aims to restore connectivity for migratory species such as the threatened steelhead trout, underscoring our commitment to supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Restoring Vital Habitats
One of the most inspiring stories in Morro Bay has been the remarkable recovery of eelgrass. Nearly a decade ago, these critical habitats were on the verge of collapse. Today, they have rebounded to their highest acreage in decades, an impressive 750 acres recorded in 2023. This recovery highlights the resilience of our ecosystem and the importance of collaborative monitoring and restoration efforts.
In 2024, we focused on monitoring and research to better understand eelgrass recovery and its role as a critical habitat for many fish species. These efforts will guide future conservation strategies and ensure continued support for the wildlife that depend on these habitats.
Advancing Science
Monitoring and data collection remained a cornerstone of our work in 2024. We expanded long-term data collection with advanced equipment to track estuarine health indicators, including water quality, sedimentation rates, and eelgrass recovery. Volunteers played a vital role in collecting water quality data and monitoring invasive species, providing essential support to our scientific efforts. These initiatives offer critical insights that inform adaptive management strategies and our response to challenges like climate change.
Engaging Our Community
In 2024, we reached thousands of people through diverse community engagement and education initiatives. We partnered with local nonprofit organizations to host events, field trips, restoration events, and cleanups that engaged over 700 students.
Notably, we collaborated with Cal Poly to support new environmental literacy educator workshops that empowered 25 educators from across California to integrate climate resilience, ocean literacy, and stewardship into their teaching. These programs inspire the next generation of environmental stewards and deepen our community’s connection to Morro Bay’s unique natural resources.
Looking Ahead
While we celebrate these accomplishments, we know there is more to be done. Climate change, habitat loss, and watershed health remain ongoing challenges. We are committed to tackling these issues with innovative solutions and strong partnerships, ensuring Morro Bay continues to thrive for generations to come.
Thank You
Our work would not be possible without the unwavering support of our community, volunteers, donors, and partners. Your dedication fuels our efforts and inspires our vision for a healthy and resilient estuary. Together we’ve made an impact, and I look forward to continuing this journey with you in the years ahead.
With gratitude and optimism,
Melodie Grubbs
Executive Director, Morro Bay National Estuary Program
Help us protect and restore the Morro Bay estuary!
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The Estuary Program is a 501(c)3 nonprofit. We depend on funding from grants and generous donors to continue our work. - Support us by purchasing estuary-themed gear from ESTERO. This locally owned and operated company donates 20% of proceeds from its Estuary clothing line and 100% of Estuary decal proceeds to the Estuary Program. Thank you, ESTERO!
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