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Point Reyes National SeashoreAlamere Falls and Double Point (13 mile round trip hike)
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Point Reyes National Seashore
Environmental Factors
Nature and Science
Ocean storms shape the coastal landscape

Environmental factors shape the landscape, habitats, and species of Point Reyes National Seashore. Sometimes environmental changes are part of the natural processes that have always driven change to the peninsula (geologic activity) and sometimes these changes are natural processes that have been modified by human activity (fire regime and global climate change). Several of the environmental factors are being monitored by either National Park Service staff or researchers from other agencies or universities. The goal of monitoring is to gather information for its’ inevitable use in science-based decision making.

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Harbor Seal Pup, © Sue Van Der Wal  

Did You Know?
Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are present in the waters of Point Reyes year round. Every spring, approximately 7,000 harbor seals, or 20% of the mainland California breeding population, haul out on the beaches of Point Reyes. Look for them in the esteros and in Tomales Bay and Bolinas Lagoon.

Last Updated: December 04, 2007 at 13:39 EST