A significant portion of coastal redwood land in Northern California has been returned to the Yurok Tribe, safeguarding critical salmon habitat and creating a new public recreational area. The 125-acre property, located near Redwood National and State Parks in the heart of the tribe's ancestral territory, was conveyed back to the Yurok Tribe on June 30 by the nonprofit Save the Redwoods League.
Officials have described the agreement as a "transformational" effort that prioritizes tribal land-management practices, establishes a new public space, and ensures permanent protection for vital salmon habitats. The newly established tribally owned and operated recreational area is named O Rew Redwoods Gateway, situated off U.S. Highway 101 at the base of Bald Hills Road in Orick.
During the mid-1800s, the Yurok people faced attempts to forcibly remove them from their homeland to facilitate the exploitation of natural resources like salmon and old-growth coast redwoods. The "O Rew property" itself was a site where many of these trees were milled. The tribe lost over 90 percent of its land during this era. The return of this land represents a chance for Yurok people to reconnect with their ancestral territory and feel at home after generations.
Joseph L. James, Chairman of the Yurok Tribe, stated that the project exemplifies a "just approach to the restoration of culturally important landscapes and tribal communities." He expressed hope that this initiative will establish a national precedent for collaboration between environmental protection groups and Tribal nations.
The O Rew Redwoods Gateway features new trails that offer visitors access to a unique part of California. These trails include a new segment of the California Coastal Trail, connecting to Redwood National and State Parks and providing access to old-growth redwood stands, such as the Lady Bird Johnson Grove.
In 2013, Save the Redwoods League purchased the land, which at the time was covered by asphalt, a former lumber mill, an 80-acre cattle pasture, and a stream channel severely impacted by invasive plants. The league's intention was to restore the area and enhance recreational access and connectivity.
A five-year restoration project for Prairie Creek and the construction of the Gateway commenced in 2021. The Yurok Tribe Construction Corporation and the Yurok Fisheries Department developed a one-mile braided channel, two off-channel ponds, 20 acres of wetlands, and 20 acres of upland habitat, with the assistance of numerous restoration experts. Native seedlings were also planted.
Early signs of success are evident, with hundreds of endangered juvenile coho salmon, western pond turtles, and great blue herons already utilizing the restored habitat. Wildlife such as bears, elk, and deer are also returning to the area.
Steve Mietz, President and CEO of Save the Redwoods League, remarked that the project demonstrates "what is possible when people come together with a shared commitment to healing the land and honoring its history." The O Rew Redwoods Gateway is scheduled to open to the public on August 1.