The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) will reopen the Ocean Ranch Unit within the Eel River Wildlife Area to waterfowl hunting and other public access beginning Wednesday, December 1 as the majority of habitat restoration work taking place there winds down for the year.

The area will remain open to waterfowl hunting and other public access through the remainder of the Balance of the State Zone season. Hunters and other users should be aware that small closures within the wildlife area may be implemented due to ongoing light restoration work and future temporary closures may still take place.

“We’re happy to reopen this property to waterfowl hunting in time for the holidays, as the duck season should get good in December and January,” said Shawn Fresz, a senior environmental scientist supervisor for CDFW’s Northern Region.

Located in Humboldt County near the community of Loleta, the Ocean Ranch Unit is undergoing an 850-acre restoration project to benefit native plant, fish and wildlife species and greatly improve public access and enjoyment of the property.

A Type C Wildlife Area, the Ocean Ranch Unit is open to walk-in and boat-in hunting without any reservations, hunting passes or entry permits required beyond a valid hunting license, California Duck Validation and Federal Duck Stamp for adult hunters.