Why is Pacifica State Beach particularly sensitive?: 

• Pacifica State Beach is home to one of the largest numbers of shorebirds along the length of Pacifica. Many of which are suffering declining numbers. 
  

• One of the species found at Pacifica State beach is (the Snowy Plover)  listed on the Federal Endangered Species List as "Threatened".
  

• This location is home to a small but Federally recognized and protected wetland on the Southern border which is in disrepair. This wetland is also used by waterfowl and is a holding area for (Threatened) Steelhead Trout migrating out to sea. 

 A coot feeds at the small estuary found at the Southern end of Linda Mar.

• Pacifica State Beach is listed as habitat by the USFWS recovery plan.
  

• The recent renovation of Pacifica State Beach easily doubled the usage of this location, increasing pressure on the local wildlife, especially the shorebirds.
  

• The path that was put in during the renovation by the city of Pacifica inadvertently cut into the Eastern edge of the (Threatened) Snowy Plover habitat, increasing pressure on them.
  

• Much of the activities defined by wildlife experts as detrimental to the survival of shorebirds, are common at this location.

• At least two rounds of signs for protections of the Western Snowy Plover at this location were vandalized,  destroyed and removed from this location in recent years.
  

What are the solutions?

These are the main problems that are all well documented which affect the Western Snowy Plover in a habitat such as Pacifica State Beach. These are also true for the many of the other shorebirds found there as well.

1. Human Traffic
   
2. Dogs off leash (or in close proximity on-leash))
   
3. Predators such as ravens, feral cats etc...
   
4. Fires and fireworks
   
5. Kites and frisbees near shorebird feeding/roosting/nesting.
    

Education for beachgoers is key - See links to CA State Parks flier and Frequently Asked Questions on the "Snowy Plover" Page.