The South Slough Reserve has begun restoration efforts for the Wasson Creek Watershed meaning that certain portions of the reserve will be closed off for safety purposes.
The Wasson Creek area will be off limits until further notice as they complete habitat restoration in order to help foster healthy populations of some key local species. This includes economic keystones like coho salmon, emblematic seafowl like the marbled mullet, and unique sea creatures like the pacific lamprey.
The South Trail System, including the parking area off Hinch Road, will be closed for July 1st and 2nd, as well as July 25th through August 25th. Forest activities such as hiking, berry and mushroom picking, or hunting will not be allowed in the area South from Hinch Road to Wasson Creek.
Hinch Road itself will remain open, as will the boat launch it accesses. As will the main trail loop as accessed through the South Slough Visitor center.
The $3.5 million Wasson Creek Restoration Project, is a federally funded development which seeks to restore the watershed in the 525-acre Wasson Creek area. The area was an important habitat for local species until much of the natural waterways were destroyed or diverted when developed for agricultural use.
Through collaboration with the Tribal Historic Preservation Offices from the Coquille Indian Tribe and the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians (CTCLUSI), the Reserve hopes to restore those waterways, remove invasive and foster native species, and improve public access and safety.
The South Slough National Estuary Reserve is committed to the preservation and study of crucial species and biomes and is an excellent resource for locals to engage with the nature of the South Coast, and learn how it impacts all of our lives.
For more information on closures, or to plan your next trip, visit the Reserve’s official website: https://www.oregon.gov/dsl/ss/pages/about.aspx
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