Arcata Bay

Though much of Arcata Bay is included in the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, this area in the northeastern portion is not. Primarily mudflats backed by salt marsh, the animal and plant life is similar to that of the Refuge. The rare plant Castilleja ambigua ssp. humboldtiensis is known from several sites in the area. Additionally, the endangered California clapper rail, Rallus longirostris obsoletus, has been reported as an accidental.

Integrity: A sewage treatment plant and oxidation pond separate the area into two sections, one of which is bordered by a freeway. Traces of an old wharf are visible.

Use: Research, educational, observational.

Ref: Monroe, Gary, et al, 1973. The Natural Resources of Humboldt Bay, California Department of Fish and Game Coast. Wet. Series #6, 160 pp. + app.

July 1976