August is National Water Quality Month! Throughout history, humans have been drawn to water. It is evident in the placement of cities worldwide. A quick look at any map will show the world's biggest cities surrounded by estuaries, rivers, oceans, and all manner of wetlands. It’s easy to imagine formerly nomadic peoples stumbling upon the fertile grounds on the banks of a great river and thinking, “what a great place to build a city!”

This is a terrible idea. Rivers flood. Marshes sink. The waters of our very own San Francisco Bay are rising. And yet, we have stayed. Probably for the abundant shoals of fish, the fertile soils, the temperate climate, the easy access to coastal ports, and, of course, the sheer natural beauty. Or maybe we appreciate the sound of moving water, whispering to our subconscious that everything we need is close at hand. Life bound to waters comes with all sorts of challenges and benefits, and the same is true for the water; human proximity to water can lead to greater pollution or enhanced aquatic habitat. Our relationship with water is ever evolving, and it is built on our collective actions. 

CCRCD has its own ideas of how to be in reciprocity with the East Bay’s waters. One project includes installing tidal gates in Peyton Slough. The waters of Peyton Slough are troubled; due to its underwater topography, they do not move as expected with the tides. Tidal gates will help to correct the flow and create more habitat for species that depend on brackish environments. Another project includes restoring a riparian forest on Pinole Creek. We are improving the creek and adjacent habitats by stabilizing the banks and planting native species. In addition to these, we are also managing invasive species on a partially submerged levee in the Delta with California Department of Fish and Wildlife, enhancing tidal marsh ecosystems in partnership with the Department of Water Resources, proposing a restoration project to address erosion on Marsh Creek, and assisting various volunteer organizations who are stewarding watersheds throughout the county. In return, the delta offers us water for drinking and irrigation. It gives us a place to go birding, fishing, and boating. Perhaps most importantly, the San Francisco Bay Estuary has given us a namesake and a regional identity. By caring for these waters as they have long sustained us, we ensure that our shared story with the Bay continues- one of balance, resilience, and reciprocity.