Napa River Citizen Science Project (2025-2026)
Monitoring water quality in & around Vallejo
The Napa River watershed has long been affected by industrial discharges, wastewater outflows, and urban runoff, especially in and around the Mare Island Strait in Vallejo. Our campaign combines water quality sampling with a native plant outreach effort to help improve and restore local ecosystems. By linking scientific research with youth outreach and community engagement, we’re working toward a healthier river and more beautiful and resilient neighborhoods in Vallejo. This project was made possible through generous support from the Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment and the California Sportfishing Protection Alliance.
The Challenge
Napa River Water Quality
Recent EPA enforcement actions for water pollution in the Napa River highlight an urgent need for action. Currently, water quality monitoring in the river is very limited, with a couple USGS stations in the watershed tracking temperature, flow, conductance and turbidity, but not much more (including a monitoring location in the Carquinez Strait near Crockett). Our citizen science team is collecting water quality data along key points in the Mare Island Strait and throughout Vallejo and American Canyon, allowing us to identify contaminants and inform future remediation efforts.
Environmental Justice
Vallejo has a long history of heavy industry along the river. Residents in the 94590 and 94589 zip codes have historically faced higher pollution burdens and the longterm impacts of pollution exposure can be seen in the high asthma and cardiovascular disease rates in these communities. More information on cumulative impacts of pollution exposure can be found at CalEnviroScreen 4.0.
Native Plants at the Vallejo Farmers Market
Why Native Plants?
Native plants are not only beautiful, they also benefit our local water quality and larger ecosystem in multiple ways. Native plants require less water than non-native plants, and their robust root systems help filter and clean water before it runs off or percolates into the ground. Native plants don't rely on chemical fertilizers, and they provide food and shelter for native pollinators and wildlife.
Community Involvement:
We’re providing native plants to help address local environmental challenges and foster community resilience.
Educational Outreach:
Our outreach team is committed to educating the community about the benefits of native plants and the vital role they play in ecological restoration. Through in-person plant outreach events and our social media channels, we provide resources, guidance, and native plants to empower local residents to enhance their landscapes and contribute to a healthier Napa River ecosystem at the same time.
Come see us at the Farmers Market! Upcoming dates: November 8, November 22, December 13
Our Approach
Building a Better Understanding of the Napa River Through Citizen Science
By utilizing grassroots citizen science and forming partnerships with local NGOs, public school teachers, and community advocates, we’re taking the first steps toward a cleaner, healthier river. Our team is collecting and analyzing water samples for major pollutants, providing critical baseline data to guide future conservation efforts.
Strategic Fieldwork
The OCE team is conducting water sampling at multiple transects along the Napa River and throughout the watershed, and we will share our monitoring results via public presentations and summary postings to our website in 2026.
Community-Led Water Sampling – We’re starting with a grassroots citizen science approach, where our team and volunteers will collect river water and test for major pollutants. This hands-on effort will provide essential data to guide future conservation initiatives.
Advanced Techniques – As funding becomes available, we aim to expand our research using state-of-the-art depth-integrated sampling methods and the equal-width increment approach to capture a more comprehensive picture of water quality.
Volunteer: Get involved by joining our community-led native plant distribution events and outreach initiatives, or volunteer to join our citizen science effort by helping collect water samples. And/or, if you have advice or tips about where we should sample, please let us know! Contact annie@ocefoundation.org
Learn: Follow our social media channels and sign up for our newsletter to stay informed about our progress and upcoming events.
Support: Spread the word about our campaign! Tag us on social media @ocefoundation. Every share and conversation helps amplify our impact.
Donate: Your generous contributions fuel our mission. Donations directly support local water quality monitoring, advanced field operations, work with high school students and community groups, and plant giveaways.
Get Involved!
How You Can Help
Your involvement makes a huge difference! Together, we can transform data into action, improve water quality, and support thriving, resilient neighborhoods.
Native Plants of California
Images courtesy of The Watershed Nursery
Achillea millefolium (Yarrow) supports pollinators, enriches soil, prevents erosion, and repels pests, making it a key player in biodiversity and regenerative landscapes.
Asclepias californica (California Milkweed) is a vital native plant that serves as a host plant for Monarch butterfly caterpillars while providing nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Well-adapted to dry, sandy soils, this drought-tolerant species helps with soil stabilization and enhances biodiversity, contributing to a more resilient ecosystem.
Asclepias cordifolia (Heartleaf Milkweed) is a vital host plant for Monarch butterflies, providing food for caterpillars and nectar for bees and butterflies. Its striking purple-red flowers and heart-shaped leaves enhance biodiversity, while its drought tolerance and adaptability to rocky, dry soils support erosion control and ecosystem resilience.
Asclepias fascicularis (Narrow-leaf Milkweed) is a drought-tolerant native plant and a key host for Monarch butterfly caterpillars, providing nectar for bees and butterflies. Its slender leaves and delicate pinkish-white flowers add beauty while its deep roots support soil stabilization and erosion control, promoting a thriving, biodiverse ecosystem.
Asclepias speciosa (Showy Milkweed) is a native, pollinator-friendly plant that serves as a host for Monarch caterpillars and provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its large, pink star-shaped flowers and velvety leaves enhance both gardens and wild landscapes. Drought-tolerant and adaptable, it aids in soil stabilization and biodiversity, making it a vital part of a healthy ecosystem.
Artemisia californica (California Sagebrush) is a drought-tolerant, aromatic native shrub essential to coastal ecosystems. Its fragrant, silvery-green foliage shelters wildlife and beneficial insects, while its deep roots aid in erosion control and soil stabilization. A keystone species in California’s coastal sage scrub, it supports biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Artemisia pycnocephala (Sandhill Sage) is a drought-tolerant coastal native that thrives in sandy, wind-swept environments, aiding in erosion control and soil stabilization. Its soft, silvery foliage provides habitat for wildlife and beneficial insects, while its adaptability supports biodiversity in fragile ecosystems. A resilient, low-maintenance plant, it plays a key role in coastal and dune restoration.
Anaphalis margaritacea (Pearly Everlasting) is a hardy, drought-tolerant native that provides nectar for pollinators and serves as a host plant for painted lady butterfly caterpillars. Its silvery-green foliage and white, papery flowers enhance wildlife gardens and restoration projects, while its ability to thrive in poor soils supports erosion control and ecosystem resilience.
Aquilegia eximia (Serpentine Columbine) is a striking native wildflower adapted to rocky, serpentine soils, providing nectar for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Its elegant red-orange flowers enhance riparian and woodland habitats, supporting pollinators and biodiversity. Drought-tolerant and erosion-controlling, it plays a key role in ecosystem resilience and habitat restoration.
Berberis aquifolium (Creeping Barberry) is a low-growing, evergreen native shrub that supports wildlife with nectar-rich yellow flowers for pollinators and dark blue berries for birds and small mammals. Its dense, spreading growth aids in erosion control and soil stabilization, making it valuable for habitat restoration and wildlife gardens. Drought-tolerant and adaptable, it enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience across various landscapes.
Bouteloua gracilis (Blue Grama) is a drought-tolerant native grass that supports pollinators, birds, and small mammals while aiding in soil stabilization and erosion control. Its distinctive eyelash-shaped seed heads add visual appeal, and its deep roots thrive in dry, poor soils, making it ideal for prairie restoration, sustainable landscaping, and climate-resilient ecosystems.
Carex barbarae (Santa Barbara Sedge) is a native, wetland-loving sedge essential for riparian and meadow ecosystems. Its deep, fibrous roots provide erosion control and soil stabilization, while its foliage supports pollinators, birds, and aquatic species. Thriving in moist soils and seasonal wetlands, it is ideal for restoration projects, rain gardens, and sustainable landscaping.
Ceanothus ‘Julia Phelps’ is a drought-tolerant, pollinator-friendly shrub with dense clusters of deep blue-purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. This fast-growing California native hybrid thrives in dry, well-drained soils, providing erosion control and wildlife habitat. Its evergreen foliage and low-maintenance nature make it ideal for water-wise gardens and habitat restoration.
Cercis occidentalis (Western Redbud) is a drought-tolerant native tree that supports bees and butterflies with its vibrant pink-magenta spring blossoms. Its heart-shaped leaves provide seasonal beauty, turning golden in fall, while its seed pods nourish birds and wildlife. Adapted to dry, rocky soils, it aids in erosion control, making it a valuable choice for native gardens, riparian habitats, and restoration projects.
Clematis ligusticifolia (Virgin’s Bower) is a fast-growing native vine that provides nectar for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Its fragrant white flowers bloom in summer, followed by feathery seed heads that feed birds. Thriving in riparian areas and along fences or trellises, it supports biodiversity and erosion control, making it ideal for wildlife gardens and restoration projects.
Diplacus puniceus (Red Bush Monkey Flower) is a drought-tolerant native shrub with vibrant red-orange tubular flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Thriving in well-drained soils, it adapts well to coastal and inland environments. Its dense growth supports biodiversity, provides wildlife shelter, and aids in erosion control, making it perfect for low-water gardens and habitat restoration.
Danthonia californica (California Oatgrass) is a drought-tolerant native bunchgrass that supports pollinators, birds, and grazing wildlife. Its deep roots aid in erosion control and soil stabilization, making it valuable for restoration projects and sustainable landscaping. Adaptable to various soils, it enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, thriving in prairies, woodlands, and grasslands.
Dudleya pulverulenta (Chalk Live-Forever) is a drought-tolerant native succulent that attracts bees and hummingbirds with its tall, red flowering stalks. Its silvery-white, chalky leaves reflect sunlight, minimizing water loss and enhancing survival in arid environments. Thriving on rocky slopes and cliffs, it aids in erosion control and soil stabilization, supporting habitat restoration and biodiversity in dry ecosystems.
Elymus elymoides (Squirrel Tail) is a hardy, drought-tolerant native grass that supports birds, pollinators, and small mammals. Its soft, brush-like seed heads, resembling a squirrel’s tail, aid in soil stabilization and erosion control, making it valuable for restoration projects and dryland meadows. Fast-growing and adaptable, it thrives in poor soils, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Epilobium canum (California Fuchsia) is a drought-tolerant native perennial with brilliant red-orange tubular flowers, providing a critical late-season nectar source for hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Thriving in dry, rocky soils, it aids in erosion control and soil stabilization, making it ideal for water-wise gardens and habitat restoration. This resilient plant enhances biodiversity while adding a vibrant touch to the landscape.
Erigeron glaucus (Seaside Daisy) is a hardy, drought-tolerant coastal native that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its lavender-pink petals and bright yellow centers. Thriving in sandy, well-drained soils, it aids in erosion control and soil stabilization, making it ideal for coastal restoration and native gardens. This low-growing perennial enhances biodiversity and strengthens coastal ecosystems.
Eriogonum nudum (Naked Buckwheat) is a drought-tolerant native plant that supports bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects with its tall, slender stems and delicate white to pink flowers. Thriving in dry, sandy, and rocky soils, it enhances biodiversity while aiding in erosion control and soil stabilization. Essential for habitat restoration, it is a valuable addition to wildlife gardens and arid landscapes.
Eriophyllum lanatum (Woolly Sunflower) is a drought-tolerant native that attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its bright yellow, daisy-like flowers. Its silvery, woolly foliage adds beauty while thriving in dry, well-drained soils. Supporting biodiversity and erosion control, it plays a key role in wildlife gardens, restoration projects, and resilient ecosystems
Festuca californica (California Fescue) is a drought-tolerant native bunchgrass that supports pollinators, birds, and small mammals while aiding in soil stabilization and erosion control. Its graceful blue-green foliage thrives in dry to partially shaded areas, making it ideal for hillsides, woodlands, and restoration projects. This low-maintenance, deep-rooted perennial enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Gaultheria shallon (Salal) is a hardy, evergreen native shrub that offers nectar for pollinators and berries for birds and wildlife. Its glossy, dark green leaves aid in erosion control and understory habitat restoration in forests and coastal landscapes. Drought-tolerant and adaptable, it supports biodiversity and soil health, making it a valuable choice for native gardens and reforestation projects.
Gambelia speciosa (Showy Island Snapdragon) is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub with vibrant red tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Thriving in coastal environments and well-drained soils, it supports pollinators, biodiversity, and erosion control. Its fast-growing, trailing habit makes it perfect for native gardens, slopes, and habitat restoration, adding beauty and ecological value to the landscape.
Heuchera maxima (Island Alumroot) is a drought-tolerant, shade-loving native perennial that attracts bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds with its delicate pink to white flower spikes. Its lush evergreen foliage aids in soil stabilization and erosion control, making it ideal for coastal bluffs, woodland gardens, and habitat restoration. Adapted to dry, rocky soils, this low-maintenance plant supports biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Juncus Effiusus - Common rush is a moisture-loving native perennial that provides wildlife habitat and supports wetland ecosystems. Its upright, grass-like stems aid in erosion control, water filtration, and soil stabilization, making it ideal for riparian restoration, rain gardens, and wetlands. Thriving in wet soils and floodplains, it enhances biodiversity and ecosystem health.
Juncus patens (Gray Rush) is a drought-tolerant, moisture-loving native perennial that provides habitat for birds, insects, and wildlife. Its slender blue-green stems aid in erosion control, water filtration, and soil stabilization, making it ideal for riparian areas, rain gardens, and wetland restoration. Adaptable to both wet and dry conditions, it supports biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
Keckiella corymbosa (Redwood Keckiella) is a drought-tolerant native shrub with red-orange tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Thriving in coastal and woodland habitats, it supports biodiversity and erosion control. Its fast-growing, arching branches make it ideal for habitat restoration and native gardens, adding both beauty and ecological value.
Lepechinia fragrans (Fragrant Pitcher Sage) is a drought-tolerant, aromatic shrub with tall spikes of lavender-pink tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies. Its soft, fragrant foliage enhances pollinator support and biodiversity. Thriving in dry, well-drained soils, it aids in erosion control and habitat restoration, making it ideal for native and water-wise gardens.
Monardella villosa (Coyote Mint) is a drought-tolerant perennial with fragrant minty foliage and vibrant purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Thriving in dry, well-drained soils, it supports biodiversity, erosion control, and habitat restoration. Low-maintenance and water-wise, it’s ideal for native gardens and pollinator habitats.
Phacelia californica (California Phacelia) is a drought-tolerant wildflower with lavender-purple blooms that attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Thriving in coastal bluffs, chaparral, and sandy soils, it aids in erosion control and biodiversity, making it ideal for native gardens and habitat restoration.
Salvia apiana (White Sage) is a drought-tolerant, aromatic shrub with silvery-green leaves and tall white-lavender flower spikes that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Thriving in dry, well-drained soils, it supports pollinators, wildlife, and soil health while aiding in erosion control and habitat restoration. A culturally significant plant, it’s ideal for native and water-wise gardens.
Salvia mellifera (Black Sage) is a drought-tolerant shrub with fragrant foliage and pale blue-lavender flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. A keystone species in coastal sage scrub, it supports wildlife, erosion control, and soil stabilization. Thriving in dry, well-drained soils, it’s ideal for pollinator gardens, habitat restoration, and water-wise landscapes.
Salvia clevelandii (Cleveland Sage) is a drought-tolerant, aromatic shrub with fragrant gray-green foliage and vibrant purple-blue flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Thriving in dry, well-drained soils, it supports biodiversity, erosion control, and habitat restoration, making it perfect for pollinator gardens, native landscapes, and sustainable gardening
Solidago velutina (California Goldenrod) is a drought-tolerant perennial with bright yellow flower clusters, offering a vital late-season nectar source for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Thriving in varied soils, including dry and disturbed areas, it aids in erosion control and soil stabilization. This hardy, pollinator-friendly plant enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, making it ideal for native gardens, meadows, and habitat restoration.
Scrophularia californica (California Bee Plant) is a drought-tolerant perennial with small, deep red flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. Thriving in shade to partial sun, it supports biodiversity and native ecosystems while aiding in erosion control and habitat restoration, making it ideal for wildlife gardens and natural landscapes
Sisyrinchium angustifolium (Blue-Eyed Grass) is a drought-tolerant perennial with star-shaped blue-purple flowers that attract bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. A member of the iris family, it thrives in moist to dry, well-drained soils, aiding in erosion control and biodiversity. Its clumping growth makes it ideal for meadows, borders, and habitat restoration.
Stipa lepida (Foothill Needlegrass) is a drought-tolerant bunchgrass that supports pollinators, birds, and small mammals while aiding erosion control and soil stabilization. Thriving in dry, well-drained soils, it is key for grassland restoration, sustainable landscaping, and biodiversity.
Symphyotrichum chilense (California Aster) is a drought-tolerant perennial with lavender-purple flowers that provide late-season nectar for pollinators. Thriving in coastal and grassland habitats, it spreads easily, aiding erosion control and soil stabilization. This hardy, low-maintenance plant enhances biodiversity and ecosystem resilience, making it ideal for native gardens and restoration projects.
Vaccinium ovatum (California Huckleberry) is a drought-tolerant evergreen shrub with nectar-rich flowers for bees and hummingbirds and dark berries for birds and wildlife. Thriving in coastal and woodland habitats, it aids erosion control, soil stabilization, and biodiversity. Its glossy foliage, edible berries, and adaptability make it ideal for native gardens, habitat restoration, and sustainable landscapes.
Viola adunca (Blue Violet) is a pollinator-friendly wildflower with delicate purple-blue blooms that provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects. A host plant for fritillary butterfly caterpillars, it supports biodiversity while aiding erosion control and habitat restoration. Thriving in moist to dry soils, it’s ideal for wildflower meadows, native gardens, and restoration projects.
