Floodplain Restoration Area | Ensen Community Park
Construction of Phase 2 is underway and is expected to be completed by summer 2026. This ambitious effort is transforming land once drained for agriculture into a vibrant landscape where wetlands, wildlife, and community recreation can prosper together.
To recreate the historic wetland that existed here more than a century ago, crews moved and shaped over 172,000 cubic yards of soil. That’s about 50 Olympic-sized swimming pools worth of soil! The newly contoured terrain now includes elevated ground for 1.7 miles of intertwining trails as well as basins that will hold ponds and slow-moving waterways. Three new bridges totaling 240 feet in length stand ready to carry walkers and runners across the restored channels.
Big Sur Land Trust is:
- Planting 6,000 plants and 100 trees.
- Creating 67 acres of habitat, including 29 acres of wetland.
- Installing 1.7 miles of public trails, 3 bridges and interpretive signage.
Dirt lies exposed for now, but the landscape won’t remain bare for long. Planting will soon begin, including more than 2,000 pounds of seed, 6,000 native plants, and 100 trees carefully selected for the seven distinct habitat types being created. Visitors will eventually see trees like box elder and Western sycamore, colorful flowers like California poppy and sun cups, and even some more unusually named species such as spreading rush and tufted hairgrass. They may also spot our state grass, purple needlegrass.
Once complete, the restored floodplain will offer 62 acres of habitat, from wetlands to grasslands. This revitalized environment will provide refuge for migrating birds, breeding space for native frogs, and shaded corridors for wildlife seeking relief in summer. The redesigned waterways will slow storm flows, help recharge groundwater, and filter water on its journey toward Monterey Bay. Meanwhile, the growing wetland plants will capture carbon dioxide, contributing to regional climate resilience.
When construction wraps up, the property will be transferred to the City of Salinas and opened to the public. Big Sur Land Trust will continue to steward the habitat, for the success of the restoration and for the enrichment of the entire community.
Restoration Design
