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The South Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve was established in 1974 as America’s first such Reserve through a federal state agreement that preserves 4,400 acres on an arm of the Coos Bay estuary. The Reserve is primarily a research area to study how estuaries function. As an element of the Oregon Coastal Zone Management Program, the Reserve is to serve as a source of scientific information essential to coastal zone management decision making and to serve as an educational facility to students, teachers and the public.
Over 3,000 students visit the Reserve each year to participate in structured programs that last up to five hours. These programs involve students, teachers and parents in a vital educational experience to build appreciation of estuaries. The programs have been developed with statewide science education guidelines and recommendations of teachers familiar with the student educational needs that South Slough can fulfill. The Reserve also plays an important role in supporting statewide college educational programs.
For over 25,000 casual visitors a year, the interpretive center overlooks South Slough from a vantage point 300 feet above sea level. The center offers visitors a field guide alcove, interpretive exhibits, a gift shop operated by the Friends, movies and slide programs. Hiking trails and paddling routes are available. A summer offering of special activities, classes and guided tours are conducted by staff and the Friends. On cold days there is a warm fire in the native rock fireplace at the center.
South Slough is rich and diverse, supporting a large variety of upland plant communities and birds, some of which are uncommon. It is the freshwater and estuarine habitats, however, that hold the special significance of South Slough. Invertebrates and fish inhabit the waters, and the mud flats are rich with algae, diatoms, eelgrass and clams. This is prime nursery and feeding habitat for numerous species of fish and birds.
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