A development company has a shocking new plan to fill one of San Francisco Bay's few remaining wetland areas, right on the Bay shoreline in Newark.
Wetlands and tidal marshes are becoming more valuable with each passing day. That's because the Bay Area is facing regionwide sea level rise. And wetlands—which act like sponges, absorbing huge quantities of water—are one of the most effective buffers to rising waters.
The Newark development would contend with constant flooding in the coming decades. Other South Bay communities would be at greater risk as flooding spills over into neighboring areas.
Paving over those wetlands would also destroy wildlife habitat that's home to a dozen species that are already in trouble.
Newark shouldn't allow its precious tidal wetlands to be destroyed, just to allow luxury development in an area that will eventually be flooded.
We're joining our environmental partners to call on the city of Newark to stop this unwise development proposal. Instead, the city should recommend that the area be added to nearby Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge.
And you can help! On Thursday, November 14, the Newark City Council will hold a public hearing on the issue.
Your voice can help stop this irresponsible plan to pave Newark’s tidal marshes. Ask the city to protect and restore the shoreline for the health of the Bay and future generations.
Event Details:
Where: Newark Council Chambers, 37101 Newark Boulevard, Newark
When: Thursday, November 14, 7:30-10:30pm
If you would like to reach out to the City Council directly by email, here's a list of the City Council Members' contact information.
Pictured, above: The Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge, by Calwhiz, Flickr/CC. Baykeeper and our partners are advocating for Newark wetlands to be added to the Don Edwards refuge rather than paved over.