Service Seeks Public Input to Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan for San Pablo Bay NWR

Service Seeks Public Input to Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan for San Pablo Bay NWR

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 26,2010  EA35-10 
Contact: Winnie Chan, Refuge Planner (510) 792-0222


Service Seeks Public Input to Draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan for San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is asking the public to provide input to the future management of San Pablo Bay National Wildlife Refuge, part of the San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge Complex. The refuge, located in Sonoma, Solano and Napa Counties, recently released its draft Comprehensive Conservation Plan for public review and comment. When finalized, the plan will guide management decisions for the refuge for 15 years.

"Input from the public helps the refuge form a long-term vision and management goals for the future, and the actions needed to achieve them," said Winnie Chan, refuge planner for the complex. "A refuge's vision may include improved habitat conditions or expanded public use programs that are compatible with conservation of refuge resources."

Highlights of the draft plan include:
- Develop an inventory and monitoring program;
- Continue management activities to restore native plant communities;
- Expand tidal restoration and enhancement activities;
- Improve and expand visitor services by developing new public access locations and providing additional interpretation programs;
- Developing shoreline fishing locations; and
- Expanding on-site environmental education.

Public input on the draft plan will be accepted until August 11, 2010. The draft plan and accompanying environmental assessment are available at: http://www.fws.gov/cno/refuges/SanPablo/SanPablo.cfm or by contacting Winnie Chan at sfbaynwrc@fws.gov or (510) 792-0222

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen in the Pacific Southwest Region, visit http://www.fws.gov/cno .