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Fay Slough Wildlife Area

Description

The 484-acre Fay Slough Wildlife Area is previously grazed land that has been restored to coastal and seasonal wetlands. Riparian woodlands occur along the eastern and southern edges of the area, and are dominated by red alder and willows. Many species of resident and migratory songbirds utilize this habitat, as well as egrets, herons and various raptors. There are also many species of reptiles and amphibians that occur is the area, including northern red-legged frogs, pacific chorus frogs, northwest salamanders, and newts.

For more information, call the Northern Region Eureka office at (707) 445-6493.

Recreational Opportunities

Wildlife Viewing Waterfowl Hunting Hunting with Shotguns

NOTICE: The wildlife area is closed to public use from the Monday following the Youth Waterfowl Hunt (usually the first week of February) until April 1.

Activities: wildlife viewing, birdwatching, hunting

Hunting: Waterfowl, coot, and snipe may be present.

Type C: Fay Slough Wildlife Area does not require the purchase of a hunting pass for entry. Entry permits and/or passes or special drawing may be required for hunting on some Type C wildlife areas.

Facilities: None

Camping and motel accommodations are available at several nearby locations around Eureka.

NOTE: Visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with all regulations pertaining to the use of Department lands.

Refer to the Public Uses on State and Federal Lands section of the Waterfowl, Upland Game, and Public Use Regulations (PDF) booklet for both statewide and property-specific regulations.

no drones icon
You may not operate a drone on CDFW Lands without a Special Use Permit.

Area History

Fay Slough Wildlife Area was originally reclaimed for agricultural use and was used for this purpose until its acquisition.  Livestock grazing, either for dairy cattle or beef production, has been the predominate practice.  In 1987, the 350-acre Mid-City Ranch was acquired.  In 1988, the property was designated as a wildlife area by the Fish and Game Commission.  In 1989, an adjacent 150-acre ranch was purchased, raising the total acreage.

Map of Fay Slough WA - click to enlarge in new window
Click to enlarge

Location

Northern Region (Region 1)

Humboldt County

East side of Arcata Bay, between Fay Slough and Highway 101

Access: On Highway 101, 2 miles north of the City Eureka, next to Harper Motors. Access is from the designated parking area only.

CDFW Lands Viewer

Wildlife Branch - Lands Program
Mailing: P.O. Box 944209, Sacramento, CA 94244-2090