ABOUT THE RESERVE
The 3,036-acre Emerald Waters Reserve is split between Humboldt and Trinity Counties and fronts on the Eel River for 4.5 miles. The Reserve is 23 miles down the river from Spyrock Reserve—about a day’s kayak trip. Emerald Waters Reserve ranges in elevation from 340 feet to 2,600 feet and is dominated by white oak woodland and white oak savanna that cascade down the steep slopes to the river. Other trees on the property include bay laurel, buckeye, and pockets of Douglas fir. Wildlife includes a robust population of large mammals including a herd of native Roosevelt elk that occasionally roam the property. Emerald Waters Reserve is named for its aquamarine waters and delightful swimming holes.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
RESERVE ACCESS
Currently closed to the public. Contact us for more information regarding access.
CONSERVATION OUTCOMES
This property is among ground zero for the cannabis industry. On a flyover to the property from the Ukiah Airport one sees hundreds of acres of graded pads with hundreds of huge greenhouses that mar the otherwise vibrant natural landscape. Except for a few committed old ranching families, much of the surrounding lands are being carved up for cannabis production. Preventing the parceling of these large ranches is important for wildlife corridors and landscape linkages for the region’s robust wildlife.
