The lower EEL river wetlands acquisition project seeks to permanently protect 237 acres of wetlands and uplands through fee simple purchase of the project area

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) awarded $1,646,492 to the State Coastal Conservancy on September 1, 2025, under the Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection and Restoration program (CFDA 15.614) to permanently protect 237 acres of wetlands and uplands in the Lower Eel River area through fee simple property acquisition. The project will preserve critical cottonwood gallery forest and instream habitat for federally listed species, including Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Steelhead, Pacific Lamprey, and Western snowy plover. The acquisition will facilitate future restoration and enhancement of riparian forest and instream habitat while enabling appropriate public access and environmental education initiatives. The project is expected to be completed by August 30, 2028.

The State Coastal Conservancy, serving as prime recipient, sub-awarded project implementation to the City of Fortuna effective April 22, 2026. The City will acquire the property and distribute it strategically: retaining 7.2 acres for open space and public recreation, and transferring the remaining 230 acres to the Wiyot Tribe for long-term habitat protection, restoration, natural resource management, protection of cultural resources, and tribal cultural use and access. This phased approach integrates habitat conservation objectives with community stakeholder participation and indigenous stewardship.

The property provides critical habitat for listed species and an opportunity for appropriate public access and environmental education. The project will preserve cottonwood gallery forest and instream habitat for listed species and will manage access to reduce inappropriate uses and provide environmental education. This acquisition is a critical step to facilitate future restoration and enhancement of critical riparian forest and instream habitat in the project area and adjacent properties. IT also will facilitate appropriate public access and development of a park on the uplands portion of the property.