Dow Wetlands Preserve

The Dow Wetlands Preserve is 471 acres of undeveloped land in Pittsburg, near the River, between the Antioch Marina and Dow Chemical plant. The Wetlands boasts miles of trails, observation decks, benches, and beautiful Delta views. Dow acquired the property from the US in 1989. Steel Corporation as an environmental buffer zone for $11 million to prevent the development and an increase in population density near their plant. Dow wetlands 002 The wetland is open to everyone in the morning-dusk hours. The main entrance is on 10th Street, near the main gate to the Dow. There is further access to the parking lot at Antioch Marina.

Ecosystem Biodiversity

The Dow Wetlands Preserve consists of 471 hectares of undeveloped land, including a 172-acre freshwater and brackish marsh, a 30-acre beaver dam, freshwater ponds, open water, mudflats, riparian areas, uplands, and grassland. The beaver pond of 30 hectares is home to beavers, river otters, monks, and a variety of water birds. The beavers and otters also built rivers in the marshlands, enabling them to move food and construction materials easily. The Wetlands also harbors endangered species of wildlife and plants, such as the Salt Marsh Harvest Mouse.

Lilaeopsis Masonii, a small, perennial flowering herb, and carrot family member, and the Suisun Marsh Aster, a perennial herb endemic to the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta marshes. Moreover, over 130 bird species were observed within the Wetland Preserve. Two endangered species of birds, Black Shouldered Kites and Northern Harrier are known to be residing within the Wetlands.

Preserving the Wetlands

Tideland marshes and wetlands in California are particularly vulnerable to developmental pressure. Dow Chemical dedicated more than 200 acres of its total property as Dow Wetlands Preserve on Earth Day, 1990. The Wetland Environmental Committee, composed of community leaders, veterans, and Dow staff, decides on-site upgrades and conservation activities each year. The native species are routinely planted in the form of trees, shrubs, and wildflowers. A windmill pumps water into native oak trees, and a field of birds forage grows sunflowers, wheat, and corn crops to attract additional wildlife. Habitat enhancement, wildlife monitoring, and improvements to migrating birds’ nesting sites are a team focus. Dow is partnered with the Lindsey Wildlife Museum, Earth Team, and Los Medanos College, all of which help to support future generations in the preservation of the Wetland.