Today is Endangered Species Day

Every year on the third Friday in May, people throughout the country raise awareness about endangered species in their own communities through educational talks, film screenings, on-location visits to zoos, aquariums, and wildlife habitats and other activities for all ages.

Here in the Half Moon Bay area, though, getting active on endangered species is not a event that happens one day a year. It's something that happens throughout the year -- perhaps a direct result of our close proximity to a variety of natural habitat from Montara to Pescadero.

The following is a list of endangered species in the Half Moon Bay area and some ways with which you can get involved in local efforts.

California red-legged frog, Coho salmon, San Francisco Garter Snake, Steelhead trout, Tidewater goby

The Coastal Alliance for Species Enhancement (CASE), a group of concerned residents and fishermen in Pescadero who work to increase the number of endangered species (including the Coho Salmon, Steelhead Trout, California red-legged frog, San Francisco Garter Snake, and Tidewater goby) in the Pescadero Marsh by working to restore the area's natural habitat. In November, CASE against the State Parks Department, the California Resources Agency, and the California Department of Fish and Game, alleging that these agencies have failed to comply with and enforce the California Endangered Species Act in the Pescadero Marsh Nature Preserve.

Help learn more about the Pescadero Marsh and raise money for habitat restoration at the marsh by attending the Steelhead Festival (organized by CASE) on May 28 at the Pescadero IDES Hall. The event will include guest speakers, exhibits, video showings, live music, dinner, auction and a raffle. For more information and to buy tickets, click here or email Steve Simms at ssimms@caseforourenvironment.org

Western Snowy Plover (Coastal Pacific population)

Between March to September, volunteer at least four hours a month at the Half Moon Bay State Beach (located at the foot of Kelly Ave.) with the California State Parks Agency’s Plover Watch program. Volunteers walk the beaches to monitor the birds' nesting habitat and ensure it is intact. Trainings are being held intermittently. For more information, contact Assistant Volunteer Coordinator Paul Langan at 650-726-8804, voice mailbox #7, or e-mail hmbplovers@hotmail.com.

Leatherback sea turtle (Dermochelys coriacea)

The Sea Turtle Restoration Project in Olema has been working for over 20 years on policy and action-based projects, including closing a sea turtle slaughterhouse and working internationally to get countries to adopt sea turtle-friendly shrimping equipment.

For the Endangered Species Coalition's list on "10 Easy Things You Can Do At Home," click here.