Pond Conversion Project at Shoreline

1-31-2012

The project to convert two fresh-water ponds located at Shoreline Golf Links into 6.6 acres of prime Burrowing Owl foraging habitat continues.

Photo of Burrowing Owl at Shoreline taken by Audubon Society Volunteer

To date, the following milestones have been completed: Drained water from the ponds; Installed new drainage; Placed new dirt to fill the ponds and grading to enhance existing environment; Placed rock piles and brush piles throughout the ponds; Installed native plantings; Hydro-seeded the ponds with native grasses prior to winter.

There are several goals related to this project. First, by draining the fresh water from the ponds, the Canada Geese and American Coots no longer have easy access to fresh water in these areas and do not damage the surrounding golf course as in previous years. Second, the new grading, installation of native plants, new rock and brush piles, and hydro-seeding will encourage mice, reptiles, amphibians, etc. into these new areas. It is anticipated that these species will provide the Burrowing Owls an increased prey base close to their natural habitat and will encourage more owls to Shoreline. Finally, once the foraging area proves to be successful for the owls, the approved athletic fields along Garcia Avenue can begin construction.

Dirt being spread and graded in the ponds

Volunteers Assistance           

The pond conversion project moved quickly thanks to numerous volunteers from the community. Volunteers provided their time and effort to plant over 300 native plants in the ponds and other areas within Shoreline at Mountain View to improve the habitat for wildlife. The volunteers included students from San Jose State University, De Anza College, members of the Santa Clara Audubon Society and interested community members.

Volunteers from Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society and San Jose State install native plants along pond edges

The Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society (SCVAS) has been an instrumental partner in the design and implementation of this project. Their efforts have assisted the City by providing volunteers to assist with planting projects, reviewing site plans and by continuing to educate the public about the Burrowing Owls. Through a grant provided by Together Green, they also have purchased plants and other materials used to improve the habitat for the Burrowing Owls within Shoreline at Mountain View.

Click the link to see the short film created by the Audubon Society about the project at Shoreline: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgXiwF7HdVw

 Shoreline at Mountain View and Burrowing Owls

In 1998, the City of Mountain View formally implemented the first of two Burrowing Owl Management Plans to ensure the safety and success of this “Species of Special Concern.”

The City is currently working to create a new “Burrowing Owl Preservation Plan” to provide staff with additional information regarding the owls including their environmental needs and how to increase the species' population while completing necessary maintenance. The City continues to employ a part-time Burrowing Owl Specialist who monitors the owls, improves their habitat and pre-approves maintenance projects to limit the impacts on the owls according to state and federal regulations.

The public is encouraged to visit Shoreline to enjoy the abundance of wildlife, including the Burrowing Owls.  Join one of the FREE Environmental Docent-led Walks held every Tuesday and the fourth Sunday of each month at 11:00am, departing from the Rengstorff House.  For more information, please call (650) 903-6392.