KEEPING WATCH Western gulls maintain a perch on a walkway that leads into Elkhorn Slough. (Tarmo Hannula/The Pajaronian)

The Elkhorn Slough Foundation (ESF) launched a new “Elkhorn Forever” campaign with a kick-off celebration Tuesday, with the goal of raising $12 million.

Held at the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Visitor Center, the effort aims to ensure the long-term health of Elkhorn Slough’s  ecosystem, which is home to more than 700 species of plants and animals, including migratory shorebirds, 16 threatened and endangered species, and the southern sea otter.

Elkhorn Slough Foundation Executive Director Mark Silberstein said the natural area is facing mounting challenges, from habitat loss to climate change.

“… and it is imperative that we act boldly now to safeguard its future,” he said. “The Elkhorn Forever campaign is about building financial support and uniting the community in a shared vision of conservation and resilience.” 

The Elkhorn Slough Foundation has for more than four decades protected thousands of acres of wetland and upland habitat, restored ecosystems, and engaged the community in ongoing stewardship efforts. 

Community members can support the initiative by donating to help reach the campaign’s $12 million goal, volunteering for habitat restoration efforts, and advocating for policies that protect wetlands and coastal ecosystems.For information, contact Ross Robertson at ro**@el***********.org or 831.728.5939.

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Tarmo Hannula has been the lead photographer with The Pajaronian newspaper in Watsonville since 1997. More recently Good Times & Press Banner. He also reports on a wide range of topics, including police, fire, environment, schools, the arts and events. A fifth generation Californian, Tarmo was born in the Mother Lode of the Sierra (Columbia) and has lived in Santa Cruz County since the late 1970s. He earned a BA from UC Santa Cruz and has traveled to 33 countries.

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