Ternwatchers

Dune Defenders: California Least Tern Habitat Restoration

11/12/2025 09:00 AM - 12:00 PM PT

Category

Conservation

Admission

  • Free

Location

Mariner's Point Nesting Preserve
32°45'55.9"N 117°14'44.6"W
Mission Bay, CA

Summary

Join us for a weekday opportunity to help with meaningful conservation work! These events will combine meaningful conservation work with a strong sense of community. Whether you're reconnecting with a favorite activity or joining us for the first time, all are welcome.

Description

Dune Defenders: Coastal Habitat Restoration in Mission Bay

Join the San Diego Bird Alliance’s Dune Defenders to help restore vital coastal dune habitat and support the nesting grounds of the California Least Tern, one of Mission Bay's most iconic and endangered seabirds.

Volunteers will assist with habitat restoration activities such as removing invasive vegetation, maintaining native plant communities, and occassionally perform other land management tasks.

No experience is needed. Just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to get your hands sandy! All tools, gloves and guidance will be provided. Come prepared in close-toed shoes and bring a water bottle.

📍 Location: Varies weekly/monthly within Mission Bay 
🗓️ When: Weekly on most Wednesdays starting November 5 through the end of March. Check event calendar ahead of time for future dates.
👥 Who: Open to all ages and experience levels
📧 Sign up: Email csantamaria@sandiegobirdalliance.org to join the Dune Defenders mailing list and receive updates

DIRECTIONS TO MARINERS POINT

The closest address to the nesting site is 1215 Mariners Way, San Diego, CA 92109. 

GPS Coordinates for meeting location: 32°45'55.9"N 117°14'44.6"W
 
After turning onto Mariner’s Way, turn left to continue on Mariner's Way.
Drive until the road begins to curve around, at which point you will reach a metal swinging gate.
You may park here or drive the rest of the way down the hard packed sand until you reach
the chain-link fence.

Learn more: Help save the endangered California Least Tern.