Hoffman Marsh
Map SatelliteThis tidal salt marsh on the eastern shore of San Francisco Bay is a marginal area, although it is one of the few such salt marshes in the vicinity. It is divided into two parts, separated by Point Isabel. The dominant vegetation is pickleweed, Salicornia virginica, and cord grass, Spartina foliosa.
During the migratory season a number of waterfowl and shorebirds may be observed feeding on the extensive mudflats in the area. The endangered salt-marsh harvest mouse, Reithrodontomys raviventris, may occur here.
Integrity: The north section of the marsh is enclosed on all sides by railroad beds and a highway, and is open to tidal action of the bay by culverts and gaps. Sedimentation in this part appears to have been increased by the levee-effect of the railroad beds. A part of the central mudflat area has developed into a marsh since 1950. The southern portion is open to the bay and has eroded somewhat since 1950.
Use: Research, educational, observational, Portions are private.
August 1982
Inventory of California Natural Areas
Revision © 2009 Steven Louis Hartman