HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems
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HARTMAN MULTIMEDIA
Nature Based Multimedia Information Systems |
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The Goleta Slough is one of the few coastal salt marshes
between San Diego County and Morro Bay. As such, it is an important feeding and resting area for migratory birds
as well as a breeding area for numerous fish and other marine organisms. Once an open harbor for ocean-going vessels, an unusual
flood in 1861 filled the harbor with sediments, creating a shallow lagoon.
Progressive siltation led within the past 50 years to the creation of the
salt marsh. When the channel mouth
is open, usually from December or January through the spring, approximately 30
hectares (75 acres) are subject to regular tidal action, and another 25 hectares
(60 acres) when 1.5-meter (5-foot) or greater tides top the levees.
Much of the year the western end of the marsh is dry. Salicornia virginica dominates the salt marsh proper,
comprising some 90% of the plant cover.
There are several freshwater marsh areas. In the winter months migratory birds are found in
abundance. The endangered clapper
rail, Rallus longirostris levipes, and the rare black rail, Laterallus
jamaicensis, have been sighted in the past but there are no recent verified
reports. Integrity: Nearly 60% of the original marsh has been
reclaimed for airport, road and other uses, and the area is diked and portions
drained. Ref: Speth, John, et al, 1970. The Natural Resources of
Goleta Slough. California Department of Fish and Game, Sacramento. July 1975
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