As the high tech industry blossoms and blooms in California, the wildlife needs a place to call home. And, that’s exactly what Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge does. It sits on the southern end of the San Francisco Bay area. This refuge was created by the locals in 1972 to try to preserve the amazing San Francisco Bay area’s wildlife. As the population started to rise from the California gold rush in 1849 and has continued ever since. This Wildlife refuge was built to bring back what the ecosystem once was. It offers a home for migrating birds as well many other marine life.
Conservation efforts supported the rebuilding of the saltwater wetlands and restore what was lost. Today, this area can be enjoyed by the public from sun up to sun down on all the trails. There is a visitor center that overlooks the LaRiviere Marsh, a restored salt marsh that is home to two endangered species. These two species are the salt marsh harvest mouse and the California Ridgway’s rail. At the visitor center, you’ll find trail maps and exhibits explaining what is found in this area. There are trails that you can walk on. And, self-guided tours will introduce you to the many species that call this place home.
Amazing Trails to Explore
The refuge has an extensive web of trails to enjoy. Most are open from sun up to sun down and allow guests to see up close and personal some of the many inhabitants. Walk quietly and try not to disrupt the inhabitants. Remember, you are visitors of their home, so stay on the paths and don’t make a mess. Act as a proper guest in their home and don’t disturb them.
All but the LaRiviere Marsh Trail allows bicycles, which is the trail near the visitor center. And, dogs are only permitted on a six-foot leash in The Tidelands Trail, Harrier Spur Trail, Quarry Trail and Marshlands Road, which is also near the visitor center.
The Refuge Expanded
This refuge was funded by the efforts of a man named Don Edwards, who was a congressman that believed in this effort and brought to the government’s attention. In 1988 there were additional 20,000 acres added to double the refugees’ size. In 1995 this refuge received its official name of Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge due to the efforts of the congressman.
Because of Don’s efforts as well as many of the local citizens. Many wildlife animals enjoy the refuge as their safe home. The saltwater wetlands are home to many endangered species as well as birds, plants, fox, seals, fish, and other small animals. It provides a great place for the public to see them in their natural home as well as us to study them. This studying allows us to understand how to better serve and provide for them with the refuge and around the world.
This is a beautiful place to see and enjoy right in Fremont California. Visit often, as each season offers different things to see. Visit in the summer months to see babies. And, find the migratory animals such as birds and butterflies in the winter months.
If you’ve already visited Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge, you might consider a day out at Ardenwood Historic Farm.
Driving Directions to Smile Matters – Preet Sahota DDS from Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge:
- Head southwest on Marshlands Rd
- Make a U-turn
- Turn right to merge onto CA-84 E
- Take the exit onto CA-84 E/I-880 S toward San Jose/Fremont
- Take the Stevenson Blvd exit
- Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto Stevenson Blvd
- Turn right onto Stevenson Pl
