Anstine: Tule Harvest

Love Your Wetlands Day at Kendall-Frost Marsh features many outdoor activities, with one of them being a community boat-building, with the boats getting launched from the shore of Crown Point. The boats are crafted using tule, a type of bulrush that grows in ponds and riparian areas, similar to how many boats and other structures have been constructed for years upon years by the indigenous people in San Diego and beyond.

Tule can refer to different species of bulrush, the ones found growing in the pond at Anstine Nature Preserve are California bulrush (Schoenoplectus californicus). Tule resembles the familiar cattail but does not produce the sausage-like flowers or the flat leaves, it has round stems that can be buoyant.

Join us to view the harvesting process or take part in it. Some harvesting will be done via boat and participants may get muddy or wet. Even if you can’t join us at Anstine, we encourage you to join the fun at Love Your Wetlands Day!
No experience needed! Just bring your energy and a love for nature! 🌿

No experience needed! Just bring your energy and a love for nature! 🌿

What to Bring:

• Refillable water bottle
• Snacks
• Close-toed shoes
• Weather appropriate attire
• Sun protection

What is provided:

• Tools, gloves
• Water

ℹ️ Please note: Anstine Nature Preserve will be closed on the first Saturday of February (2/7/26). We encourage you to spend the day at UC San Diego’s Kendall-Frost Marsh Reserve celebrating Love Your Wetlands Day. Learn more and register here.

🌱 About Anstine:
Anstine Nature Preserve is open to the public every Saturday from 9am to 4pm. Check the Anstine Facebook page for updates on weather and events.

📩 Questions?
Please reach out to Hannah, Anstine Coordinator, at hstjohn@sandiegobirdalliance.org