Located near the headwaters of the Mattole River, this reserve represents approximately 1,400 acres of large stands of old-growth redwood and Douglas fir trees, mixed with black oak, tanoak, and madrone. The forest provides ideal habitat for numerous species of old-growth dependent wildlife, such as the marbled murrelet and spotted owl, as well as goshawks and other birds of prey. Wood ducks and other waterfowl, kingfishers, herons, quail, grouse, pileated woodpeckers, and many other bird species use this forest for nesting. The clear creeks of the area support many aquatic species, including salamanders and frogs. Mammals that are commonly seen here include deer, foxes, raccoons, bears, and porcupines. The property was designated as an ecological reserve by the Fish and Game Commission in 1993.
For more information, call the Northern Region Redding office at (530) 225-2300, or the reserve at (707) 445-6493.