Migratory birds face an increasingly challenging journey along the Pacific Flyway, a route stretching from the Arctic to the southern tip of South America. With habitat loss and drought tightening their grip on California’s Central Valley, finding crucial resting and refueling spots has become a struggle for these species. That’s where BirdReturns steps in—a flexible, cost-effective wildlife habitat marketplace designed to deliver shallow flooded habitats where and when birds need them most. 

By partnering with landowners, BirdReturns not only ensures essential habitat for migratory birds but also creates multiple benefits for farmers, wetland managers, and Central Valley communities. The program’s collaborative approach fosters a shared commitment to conservation, as described by BirdReturns participants: 

“BirdReturns has helped our small duck club to pursue habitat improvement projects. The extra income from their programs is plowed into the property, which in turn benefits not only the shorebirds but the ducks as well. A classic win/win!” 
—Rick Ramirez, landowner, Riverfield Duck Club, San Joaquin Region 

“BirdReturns helps us to deliver year-round benefits to shorebirds, waterfowl, and other wildlife on our wetland conservation property in the Suisun Marsh. It’s a win for wildlife!” 
—Andrew Bogan, landowner, The Teal Club, Suisun Region 

Through innovation and collaboration, BirdReturns is helping restore migratory bird populations along the Pacific Flyway, while supporting the stewards of the land who make it possible. 

Building Habitat, Expanding Reach 

• Since fall 2023, the program created nearly 60,000 acres of seasonal habitat for shorebirds and waterbirds, addressing 50–100% of seasonal habitat deficits for shorebirds and 80% of habitat deficits for waterbirds across the Central Valley. 

• Delivered 8 habitat programs, including programs that focus on: Wetlands (Spring, Summer, and Fall), Sandhill Cranes (Winter), Farmland, and additional collaboration with Rice Programs.  
• Introduced BirdReturns to Suisun, expanding its impact to the entire Central Valley and Suisun. 

Partnerships in Action 

• Collaborated with organizations such as PointBlue Conservation Science, The Nature Conservancy, and the Suisun Resource Conservation District. 
• Partnered with landowners, fostering long-term conservation practices. 

Long-term Impact 

Over the past seven years, BirdReturns has safeguarded key habitats, ensuring that migratory birds like the Western Sandpiper and American Avocet thrive along the Pacific Flyway. The program’s adaptive approach to conservation positions it as a model for addressing climate-driven challenges in agriculture and biodiversity. 

Our heartfelt thanks to all the landowners, partners, and supporters who make BirdReturns possible. Landowners and wetland managers, do you have a neighbor you can recommend BirdRetruns to? Encourage them to apply with us for the 2025 season. Together, we can enhance your land for wildlife. Learn more and sign up for upcoming programs HERE.