Wadulh Dunes Restoration Project
A restoration project in Humboldt working to restore biodiversity, and morphodynamics, as well as increase climate resilience
Wadulh (pronounced Wa-DUSH) Unit of Humboldt Bay NWR. Wadulh is the Soulatluk word for dunes (the language of the Wiyot). The site is 300 acres, of which 160 have been invaded and are now dominated by exotic invasive species. Dominant invasives are yellow bush lupine and European beachgrass, invasive annual grasses and iceplant.
The project is working to restore biodiversity, and morphodynamics, as well as increase climate resilience. Invasive removal techniques include heavy equipment, manual, herbicide, and mowing.
Revegetation will occur over much of the site. Native dune plants are being collected (seeds) and grown out by a native nursery. The foredune will be replanted to native American dune grass (harvested on site) and dune mat (herbaceous perennials and grasses), backdune with dune mat species and a few areas to forest. Due to the logistics of a remote site, plants will be transported by helicopter. Sand fencing will be erected while plants get established.
Project Partners: Humboldt Bay NWR and Redwood Community Action Agency