SPOTLIGHT: UPPER NEWPORT BAY ECOLOGICAL RESERVE
Location: West of Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach.
Information: (714) 640-6746.
Description: Most of the shallow bay is exposed at low tide and consists of intertidal mudflats and an extensive salt marsh community of cordgrass, pickleweed, saltgrass, jaumea and the endangered salt marsh bird’s beak. More than half the nation’s breeding pairs of the endangered light-footed clapper rail make their home here. Stands of rush, cattail, tule and willow occur where freshwater runoff enters the bay and along portions of the channelized San Diego Creek. The reserve is used extensively by migrating shorebirds and waterfowl.
Recreation: Biking and walking are allowed in the reserve on Back Bay Drive and along a bikeway. Birdwatching is a popular activity, especially in spring and fall. This month, the reserve became part of the new California Wildlands Program, and guided nature walks and other activities are now offered on a regular basis. Plans are under consideration to expand the reserve and construct a new nature center.
Fees: No admission charge for the reserve. There is a $2 fee to take part in scheduled programs; annual passes are $10, which includes unlimited programs and admission to eight other California wild land areas.
History: The naturally-protected lower bay has been used as a harbor since the late 1800s. Established in 1975 and managed by the state Department of Fish and Game, the ecological preserve protects 752 acres of productive wetland habitat in the upper bay.
Mass transit: No direct bus access.
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