Restoring the Eel River Estuary: A Once-in-a-Generation Project
Eel River Estuary Preserve / photo by Melissa Dabulamanzi
When you stand at the edge of the Eel River Estuary Preserve, it’s hard not to be awed. Wetlands sweep toward a dynamic dune system, and the ocean’s salt air mingles with the call of shorebirds and migratory waterfowl. But beneath the beauty lies a quiet truth — much of this land has been cut off from the tidal flows and fish runs that once made it one of the most productive estuaries on the West Coast.
That’s about to change.
The Wildlands Conservancy is leading the largest tidal restoration ever attempted on private land on the West Coast — a 530-acre revival of the Eel River’s tidal marshes. This effort will reconnect historic sloughs, restore nursery habitat for endangered salmon and steelhead, create foraging grounds for shorebirds, and give harbor seals new places to rest. It will also strengthen the ecosystem’s resilience to climate change, while supporting the needs of the local agricultural community.
In August 2025, the California Coastal Commission approved the project’s Coastal Development Permit (CDP), contingent on a few special conditions that will be addressed prior to implementation. Not only did the Commission approve the CDP, they expressed strong support and enthusiasm for the project. This milestone marks more than a decade of dedicated effort, a demonstration of Wildlands’ unwavering commitment to our preserves and to restoration projects that benefit both wildlife and people.
“Once it’s complete, the Eel River Estuary Preserve will finally be able to host year-round public access for passive recreation and free outdoor education.” — Emily Afriat, North Coast Regional Director
Our Partners in Restoration
This ambitious work is only possible because of committed partners and supporters who share our vision for a thriving estuary. The Wildlands Conservancy, as the primary landowner, is working alongside other landsowners, the Humboldt County Resource Conservation District, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service, California Wildlife Conservation Board, GHD Inc. and other partners. Together, we’re blending ecological science, community engagement, and hands-on stewardship to ensure the Eel River’s future.
Impact at a Glance
When complete, the Centerville Slough and Russ Creek Restoration Project will:
Reduce climate risks for local farms, wildlife, and coastal resources by improving flood management and habitat connectivity.
Restore vital aquatic habitat for salmon and other species by reconnecting estuarine and inland waters, creating overwintering and rearing areas for young salmon.
Improve fish health by increasing stream complexity, cooling water temperatures, boosting oxygen, and restoring direct access from the Eel River to Russ Creek and Centerville Slough.
Expand outdoor recreation and education with new kayak launches, nature study opportunities, and guided nature experiences.
Public Access for All
At The Wildlands Conservancy, we believe free access to nature is a birthright. This restoration will not only heal the land — it will open the door for more people to experience it. Soon, visitors will be able to kayak through restored tidal channels and watch wildlife return to the estuary.
For local schools, the estuary will be a living classroom where students can witness salmon migrations, explore coastal ecology, and see how healthy lands nurture healthy communities.
“This great western river deserves a landscape protection program as inspiring as the redwoods on its banks.” — David Myers, Co-Founder
Wildlands’ Eel River Emerald Necklace Vision
This restoration is part of our larger Eel River Emerald Necklace vision: a connected system of preserves from the river’s headwaters to the Pacific. Imagine rafting through protected forests, hiking the Great Redwood Trail, and approaching ancient redwoods by way of the river itself.
Tidal Channels at Eel River Estuary Preserve