Elk NetworkEel River, California

Conservation | September 8, 2017

WhatIn June of 2016, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (RMEF), in cooperation with the California Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire), and Coastal Forestlands, Ltd, completed Phase II of the Eel River Peninsula Conservation Project, securing 15,620 acres with permanent conservation easements. In July of 2011, partners conserved 8,544 acres with the completion of Phase I. This multi-phase project now permanently protects 24,164 acres of the planned 65,260-acre landscape that is currently under threat of development.WhereLocated in northern California, these scenic and ecologically important properties are adjacent to the Mendocino National Forest and the Sanhedrin Wilderness area.WhoRocky Mountain Elk FoundationCalifornia Wildlife Conservation BoardCalifornia Department of Forestry and Fire ProtectionCoastal Forestlands, LtdWhy It’s ImportantIt is home to more than 350 wildlife species including tule elk, black-tailed deer, black bear, spotted owl, Pacific fisher, and other species of concern as well as threatened and endangered flora and fauna.More InfoThe Eel River Peninsula property is bordered partially by the wild and scenic Eel River System featuring headwaters that form a peninsula of pristine plant and wildlife habitat.

The completion of Phase II, which includes the Foster Mountain, Garcia Creek and Summer Camp properties, improves important landscape conservation and connectivity for wildlife and protects the rich history of the area, including remnants of tribal settlements and historic homesteads.