The Chanslor Wetlands Project protects approximately 250 acres of crucial wetlands habitat in the historic fishing village of Bodega Bay, California, 1.25 hours north of San Francisco. The goal of the organization is to establish and operate an economically self-sufficient environmental education facility and wildlife preserve at Chanslor Ranch. The Project was dedicated in June of 1993 and is supported by the hospitality, recreation and agricultural businesses operated at Chanslor Ranch.

The Wetlands Project area is part of the Salmon Creek Watershed and encompasses brackish marsh, a tidal lagoon, freshwater marsh and pond, riparian habitat, wet meadow and seasonal pools. The northern border of the property is Salmon Creek, a breeding stream for steelhead trout, and within the last 20 years for coho salmon as well.  Located on the Pacific Flyway, this varied ecosystem attracts myriad migrating shorebirds, waterfowl and raptors. Red-legged 
frogs, western pond turtles and rare forms of plant and animal life thrive within the preserve area.

The Chanslor Wetlands have a rich human history. For thousands of years the property was home to the Native American Coast Miwok.  Spanish explorers and Russian settlers followed.  In 1844 a grant created the 35,000 acre Rancho Bodega, which included this property. Italian sheep and cattle ranchers followed California's statehood. Since 1950 the property has been operated as a guest ranch.  

Chanslor Wildlife
2660 Hwy 1 (P.O. Box 1510)
Bodega Bay, CA 94923
(707) 875-2721
e-mail: WetlandsProject@aol.com