Wetlands

The Peyton Slough Marsh Complex

McNabney and Moorhen Marshes

Mt. View Sanitary District’s (MVSD) treated effluent flows into a series of marshes, rather than a deep-water outfall as most treated wastewater does. These marshes, enhanced by the reclaimed effluent, are rich and diverse in wildlife and easily accessible to students, birders, researchers, and the general public. Biologists have identified 116 bird species 69 plant species, over 20 mammals and at least 34 species of aquatic invertebrates making their homes in the wetlands. At least 15 species of birds use the marsh complex for nesting.

Moorhen Marsh

In 1974, MVSD created Moorhen Marsh, the first wetlands on the west coast dependent solely on treated effluents as its primary water source. The 21-acre constructed wetland saved the District’s rate payers millions of dollars by avoiding the construction of a deep-water outfall to transport MVSD’s treated wastewater to the Carquinez Strait, all while creating critical habitat for wildlife. Native…

McNabney Marsh

McNabney Marsh (formerly known as Shell Marsh) is a restored, muted tidal wetland located east of I-680 in Martinez. The 138-acre wetland is jointly owned by MVSD and the East Bay Regional Park District, with an agreement that gives MVSD full responsibility for its management.

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Wetland Wildlife

Both McNabney Marsh and Moorhen Marsh are part of the Peyton Slough Wetlands Complex in the Peyton Slough Watershed. The MVSD wetlands provide habitat for over 125 species of birds with approximately 30 species known to nest here. As many as 25 species of mammals have been documented using the wetlands and associated uplands including the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse. Reptiles, like the…

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Projects and Studies

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Wetlands Education Program

The MVSD Wetlands Education Program started in 1996 by providing field trip experiences to Martinez elementary schools. The program has grown over the years and now includes a field trip experience and a classroom program. MVSD's new educational partner, The Gardens at Heather Farm, will ensure that the program's curriculum is aligned with California Science Standards. Now, thanks to various grant…

Connecting Kids with Wildlife

Do you want to help kids break away from TV, phone, tablet, and computer screens? Getting kids outside for hands-on learning and adventure can make that break away time much more rewarding and bird watching (aka “birding”) can be an effective gateway to broader nature exploration. Getting started with birding is fast and inexpensive and it can happen in your own back yard or community park. It’s…

The Moorhen Marsh Western Pond Turtle Enhancement Project

In 1974, led by an innovative Board of Directors, MVSD became the first Wastewater Treatment Plant on the West Coast to utilize treated wastewater for wetland creation. The resulting Moorhen Marsh saved the District’s rate payers millions of dollars by eliminating the need for a deep water outfall while establishing a 21-acre habitat that benefits numerous aquatic and terrestrial species. Almost…

The Peyton Slough Marsh Complex

McNabney and Moorhen Marshes

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