The Point Reyes Bird Observatory, also a member of the RHJV, will conduct a bird-banding demonstration with assistance of members of the RHJV and Refuge staff. The San Joaquin River-Grasslands Ecological Area is an excellent example of cooperative management between State and federal agencies and others to protect the riparian resources of the San Joaquin River. Approximately 81 stream miles of riparian vegetation along the river with braided oxbow ponds and sloughs, wetlands and natural grasslands form an extremely important wildlife habitat. RHJV Flagship Projects highlight the best riparian conservation efforts currently underway in California. The designation provides recognition for outstanding riparian restoration, enhancement, and protection projects on both public and private lands.
Participation is voluntary and is based on biological criteria and the nomination of the landowner.
Although neotropical migratory bird conservation is emphasized by the RHJV program, Flagship Projects benefit a multitude of other species of plants and animals as well. Flagship Projects are not linked to any grant or other funding program. Further, the designation carries no regulatory weight nor does it impose any management constraints on the landowner. Rather, participation as a Flagship Project provides an opportunity to receive public acknowledgment for conservation work currently being undertaken, to connect with other entities doing restoration work in the State, to share technical knowledge and expertise, and to heighten the public's awareness of the importance of riparian systems. Other RHJV Flagship Projects include Cosumnes River Watershed Project, South Fork of the Kern River, and the Santa Margarita River.