Protecting and Restoring California’s Ecosystems with Nature-Based Solutions

Three Short Films by Masha Karpoukhina

Produced by Colorfool Films

These 3 short films represent an inspiring patchwork of some of the most ambitious conservation projects to be undertaken in California in response to the climate crisis. What can be achieved if we decide to work in concert with nature rather than against her? If we decide to learn from the wealth of ecological knowledge embedded in the evolutionary process, billions of years in the making? In many ways, the things that we love most about the Bay Area from our coastal redwoods, to the majesty of the Bay, to the free flowing waters that nourish it, deeply depend on the success of these 3 projects. They represent hope, but it’s clear that they will not be enough. How can we inspire a thousand more projects just like these to help redefine what is possible?

A Valley Endures: Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST)

Between two ridges—the Santa Cruz Mountains and the Diablo Range—lies Coyote Valley, the last remaining, largely undeveloped link connecting 1.13 million acres of habitat that is already severely fragmented by human development. If the wildlife who call these habitats home are to have a chance at adapting to our changing climate, or even surviving, Coyote Valley must be protected forever. (5 minutes)

Where the Wetlands Grow: Save The Bay

As the Bay Area braces for 7 feet of sea level rise by the year 2100, Save The Bay and partners such as the South Bay Salt Pond Restoration Project are pioneering nature-based solutions for one of the largest tidal marsh restoration projects on the West Coast. This innovative approach protects Bay Area wildlife and human communities with healthy marshes teeming with native vegetation instead of hardened seawalls or levees. (3 minutes) 

6000 Miles: CalWild

There are so few free-flowing rivers in the U.S. that the Department of the Interior considers them endangered ecosystems. Enter Kayla Lopez, a young river activist, and Steve Evans (aka The River Guy), who has lobbied for wild rivers in Congress his whole life. Both are on a journey into the spirit of the California rivers they hold dear. Follow their stories as we explore CalWild’s mission to protect a total of 6,000 miles eligible under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act by 2028. (5 minutes)