A serene July afternoon at a salt marsh in Millbrae, showcasing nature's vibrant interaction between land and water. Full Description: Captured on a sunny summer day, the photograph depicts a tranquil salt marsh in Millbrae, California, situated against a backdrop of gentle hills and clear blue skies. The scene is richly textured with dense, green grasses and winding waterways that provide a vital habitat for local wildlife. Visible in the frame are nine birds gracefully wading through the shallow waters, highlighting the area's importance as a haven for avian species. In the distance, the contrasts of urban structures remind us of the proximity of this natural retreat to the bustling life of the city. This landscape, part of the 2023 album collection on the personal photojournalism website, emphasizes the dual themes of natural beauty and environmental conservation, inviting viewers to reflect on the balance between urban expansion and ecological preservation. Such ecosystems are critical for biodiversity, acting as flood zones, and filtering runoff water, thereby enhancing the ecological health of the urban fringe.