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Upper Newport Bay (connected to Newport Harbor via "The Back Bay") is a largecoastal wetland (an estuary) inNewport Beach, California, and a major stopover for birds on thePacific Flyway. Dozens of species, including endangered ones, can be observed here. Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve and Ecological Reserve represent approximately 1,000 acres (4 km2) of open space. Upper Newport Bay was purchased by the state in 1975 for itsFish and Wildlife Department's Ecological Reserve System.[1] In 1985 the upper west bluffs and lands surrounding the bay became part of anOrange County regional park, which offers outdoor activities such as bird-watching, jogging, bicycling, hiking, and kayaking. The Peter and Mary Muth Interpretive Center, located at 2301 University Drive, is open to the public. An organization known as the Newport Bay Conservancy (NBC) provides volunteers to answer visitors' questions and guide them through the various activities.[2]
The bay is recognized for protection by theCalifornia Bays and Estuaries Policy.[3]
The main tributary of Upper Newport Bay isSan Diego Creek, which flows past theSan Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary before entering the bay. The bay is connected to thePacific Ocean through thelower Newport Bay, the harbor of Newport Beach.
33°38′29″N117°53′08″W / 33.641419°N 117.885532°W /33.641419; -117.885532