The Elfin Forest Natural Area on the southeastern shore of Morro Bay is a
diverse and complex assemblage of natural plant communities that includes
coastal brackish marsh, riparian woodland fringe, pygmy oak woodland, grassland,
coastal dune scrub and oak manzanita association. It supports a documented 25
species of mammals, over 110 kinds of birds, and 11 species of reptiles and
amphibians.
 Public
access is limited to foot traffic. While there are three governmental agencies
with ownership of portions of the Elfin Forest, San Luis Obispo County acts as
the lead agency in the administration of the Elfin Forest. SWAP signed an
"Adopt-A-Park" agreement with San Luis Obispo County and developed a Resource
Management Plan for the Elfin Forest.
The management plan documents the current condition of existing resources
within the Elfin Forest. provides goals, objectives and policies for natural
resource protection and compatible uses within the Elfin Forest. The plan also
provides guidelines for the management and preservation of the Elfin Forest by
community volunteers working with county staff and in collaboration with
educational institutions and other environmental organizations. It is hoped that
the preservation of the Elfin Forest Natural Area can serve as a model for other
public/private collaborative efforts. For more information call the SWAP
information number, 805-528-0392. |
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