WATSONVILLE, CA—Elkhorn Slough Foundation (ESF) successfully launched a new major effort called the Elkhorn Forever Campaign with a kick-off celebration on Tuesday, April 8, 2025. The event, which took place at the Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve Visitor Center, brought together ESF leadership, campaign chairs, major supporters, and media to kick off a critical $12 million campaign to secure the future of one of California’s most treasured estuaries. The event featured a special presentation, Q&A, and an opportunity for attendees to learn more about how they can be part of the movement to preserve and restore Elkhorn Slough.
The capital campaign, Elkhorn Forever, represents a renewed commitment to ensuring the long-term health and sustainability of this extraordinary ecosystem. Known for its breathtaking beauty and rich biodiversity, Elkhorn Slough is home to more than 700 species of plants and animals, including migratory shorebirds, 16 threatened and endangered species, and the iconic southern sea otter. As the largest tidal wetland complex in California south of San Francisco Bay, it plays a critical role in maintaining water quality, providing habitat, and mitigating the effects of climate change.
“Our goal with Elkhorn Forever is to secure the long-term health of Elkhorn Slough and ensure that future generations can experience its beauty, just as we do today,” said Mark Silberstein, Executive Director of Elkhorn Slough Foundation. “As we saw from recent events, this ecosystem is facing mounting challenges, from habitat loss to climate change, and it is imperative that we act boldly now to safeguard its future. The Elkhorn Forever campaign is about building financial support and uniting the community in a shared vision of conservation and resilience.”
For more than four decades, the Elkhorn Slough Foundation has been at the forefront of conservation efforts in the region. Through partnerships with funders, scientists, policymakers, and local stakeholders, ESF has protected thousands of acres of wetland and upland habitat, restored vital ecosystems, and engaged the community in ongoing stewardship efforts. The campaign builds on these efforts, ensuring that the next generation will continue to experience and benefit from the slough’s natural wonders.
“Elkhorn Slough is not just a place of stunning beauty—it is a living, breathing ecosystem that provides countless benefits to the region,” adds Silberstein. “From recreational opportunities like kayaking and birdwatching to its essential role in coastal resilience, the slough is a vital resource that must be protected for future generations. It belongs to all of us, and together, we can ensure that it remains a thriving sanctuary for wildlife and a cherished place for people to experience nature.”
Protecting Elkhorn Slough is a collective effort, and there are many ways for the public to contribute to the Elkhorn Forever campaign. 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.
Elkhorn Slough Foundation is committed to keeping the community engaged and informed throughout the Elkhorn Forever campaign. Updates and campaign progress will be shared through ESF’s website, email newsletters, and social media channels, highlighting key milestones and opportunities for public involvement.
For more information, please contact Ross Robertson at [email protected] or (831) 728-5939.