Since 2000, BSLT has protected 125 acres at Martin Dunes adjacent to the USFWS Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge on the Monterey Bay coastline. The sandy dunes closest to the beach serve as ideal habitats for snowy plovers and are protected from human disturbance, dogs, horses, hunting, etc.

Over the past 10 years, BSLT has implemented long-term stewardship strategies at Martin Dunes to restore the natural dune habitat. Since 2009, the removal of invasive plants has been a priority. As a result, the infestation of ice plant (Carpobrotus edulis), European beachgrass (Ammophila arenaria), and ripgut brome (Bromus diandrus) has been significantly reduced, which has allowed native flora and fauna to thrive. Removing these non-native plants directly benefits the snowy plovers nesting on the dunes, as well as several other threatened and endangered species unique to the Monterey Bay Area.

On October 29th, BSLT’s former Conservation Program Director/Associate Director of Conservation Nikki Nedeff, will lead a walk-and-talk describing the natural history and ecology of Martin Dunes. Join us for this wonderful opportunity to learn more about this amazing dune habitat and nature preserve. We will walk from the parking area to the beach, then loop through Martin Dunes.

We are so grateful to have Nikki joining us to lead this walk, and are excited to have her share her incredible wealth of knowledge about this special conserved land. We look forward to walking, talking, and learning from Nikki together!

Bring: Snacks or a picnic lunch to enjoy, binoculars, clothing layers, and everything you might need for a half-day of hiking with us.

• Distance: 4 miles.
• Total ascent: 50 ft.
• Difficulty: Moderate (sandy terrain).
• Facilities: There are no facilities available at this location.
• Trail conditions: Hikers should expect rolling, sandy terrain.
• Cell service: Cell phone service is intermittent at Martin Dunes. Please plan accordingly.

Register here >>