Getting Attention
The Waterbird Habitat Project’s efforts to protect California’s waterbirds and wildlife have been featured in news articles, broadcasts, and conservation publications. Explore the latest coverage highlighting our mission, impact, and advocacy.
Recognition
Trout Bum Newsletter
Waterbird Habitat Project featured in the Trout Bum Newsletter by local legend, angler, and author Greg Vinci!
The Leader Newsletter
Granite Bay FlyCasters features the Waterbird Habitat Project in The Leader Newsletter!
Trout Unlimited Champion of the River Award
Trout Unlimited California Council honors the Waterbird Habitat Project with the River Champion Award for the Lower American River!

Waterbird Habitat Project Receives Senate Certificate of Appreciation
In August 2026, Senator Roger Niello presented the Waterbird Habitat Project with a Certificate of Appreciation from the California State Senate in recognition of our third anniversary. The certificate honors the dedicated efforts of our volunteers to conserve and protect waterbird and wildlife habitat along the American River, noting that preserving these habitats is essential to the region’s environmental health, beauty, and ecological balance. We are grateful for this recognition and for the continued support of Senator Niello, our volunteers, partners, and community. Thank you for helping us protect the American River Parkway’s wildlife and natural spaces. We look forward to the work ahead.
Effie Yeaw Nature Center 50th Anniversary Celebration features Dr Andrea Willey!
Dr. Willey Featured in The Goldman State
Weekender Mag and No Barking Wall Feature the Waterbird Habitat Project


Golden State Naturalist Podcast
Dr. Willey and the Waterbird Habitat Project highlighted in the Golden State Naturalist California 30×30 Podcast!
ECOS 2025 Environmentalist of the Year Wildlife Award
Dr. Willey is honored by Senator Roger Niello and the Environmental Council of Sacramento!
Dr. Andrea Willey Joins the APP Podcast with Doug Anthony
Dr. Andrea Willey joins Doug in the studio to share her mission to protect local ecosystems and discuss how responsible angling and community involvement can create lasting change.
Interview with Secretary Wade Crowfoot
Join Secretary Wade Crowfoot of the California Department of Natural Resources for an insightful interview with Dr. Willey, founder of the Waterbird Habitat Project, as he highlights how the project reflects their mission to help all Californians and nature thrive together!
Fox 40 News
An article from August 8, 2025 highlights our work removing invasive primrose from the William B Pond Recreation Area of the American River.
Crusaders Down Under
A character inspired by Dr. Andrea Willey is featured in Roy Brewer’s novel, Crusaders Down Under, a tale full of adventure and Australian wildlife.
Inside Sacramento
The May 2025 issue of Inside Sacramento chronicles how the Waterbird Habitat Project began and highlights the importance of removing abandoned fishing gear from waterways.
The Observer by the Sacramento Audubon Society
In the April 2025 issue of The Observer, Dr. Andrea Willey, founder of the Waterbird Habitat Project, recounts the rescue and rehabilitation of a great egret.
Riverwatch by Save the American River Association (SARA)
A profile of the Waterbird Habitat Project appears in the Winter 2025 issue, highlighting our mission, impact, and dedicated partners.
KCRA 3 News
In a broadcast from February 3, 2025, Dr. Andrea Willey speaks to the environmental dangers of re-opening Sailor Bar to car traffic.
CBS News Sacramento
In a broadcast from October 10, 2024, Dr. Andrea Willey conveys the dangers of discarded fishing gear for the waterbirds and wildlife of the American River.