About the Project
Project Overview
The Coyote Hills Restoration and Public Access Project is a multi-benefit effort led by the East Bay Regional Park District to restore approximately 205 acres of high-value wetland and upland habitats along the eastern edge of San Francisco Bay. The project enhances a rare habitat mosaic that includes wet meadows, seasonal wetlands, willow thickets, riparian forests, coastal prairie, and oak savanna. Located adjacent to Eden Landing and Don Edwards National Wildlife Refuge, the restoration expands ecological connectivity within one of the Bay Area’s most significant habitat complexes while also improving public access and recreation opportunities. To support long-term ecological tracking and data transparency, the project incorporates science-based monitoring and standardized tools. This includes multiple wetland condition surveys using the California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM) and integration of project data into EcoAtlas through Project Tracker and CARI mapping updates.
SFEI’s role in the project is to provide Monitoring and Assessment support employing the standardized statewide California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM) for wetlands and online tools to disseminate project information and monitoring results.
CRAM Wetland Condition Surveys
SFEI is leading the design and implementation of a California Rapid Assessment Method (CRAM) monitoring effort to evaluate wetland condition across the 205-acre restoration site. Working closely with EBRPD, SFEI developed a survey design that includes up to 18 CRAM assessment areas distributed across riverine, wet meadow, and seasonal wetland habitats. Surveys are being conducted at three key time points: before construction (2022), immediately after construction (2023), and one to two years post-construction (2024–2025), to track changes in ecological condition over time. Field assessments are being carried out by SFEI staff with EBRPD support and include the use of both standard CRAM protocols and the CRAM Stress Index, which is under development. All monitoring data are entered into the statewide eCRAM database and shared via EcoAtlas. The work will culminate in a short technical memo summarizing methods, findings, and the value of CRAM as a standardized tool for tracking wetland restoration performance in a regional context.
Project Tracker and other EcoAtlas presentation/training materials
Project information for Coyote Hills is being uploaded to Project Tracker, including basic details, mapped wetland features, and associated documents such as restoration and monitoring plans. A demonstration is being provided on how to use EcoAtlas tools, including how to upload project activities, files, and map edits. Updates to the California Aquatic Resources Inventory (CARI) will reflect newly restored wetland areas and improve the accuracy of wetland and stream mapping across EBRPD properties. This work ensures the project is documented using standardized statewide tools and contributes to a more complete regional inventory.
