An Estuarine salt marsh -- The Elkhorn Slough

A slough is a type of coastal wetland, with soft, muddy, and swamp-like ground. Sloughs are typically found in river deltas close to the ocean. They contain both fresh and salt water, creating this unique estuarine ecosystem.


The Elkhorn Slough  is a meandering waterway located on the Monterey Bay near the town of Moss Landing on the central coast of California. It is used for recreation, kayaking, fishing, and agriculture. The immense biodiversity makes the Elkhorn perfect for recreational use.There are 5 miles of trails in the slough, and staff give guided tours. People can also go kayaking or boating, both of which offer an opportunity to view sea otters. The slough is especially known as a great place for birdwatching because there are more than 300 species of birds living in the slough at any given time. Hunting and fishing are not allowed in the National Reserve, but other parts of the slough maintained by private organizations allow people to fish and hunt. The Moss Landing harbor is also a great place for people to eat, shop, and enjoy tours at the Visitors' Center.