The conservation easement was recorded May 31 on a 20-acre parcel being purchased by Benjamin and Ritva Garlick of Fieldbrook. While the easement diminishes the future market value of the property, it provides some tax benefits and ensures that development will be barred in perpetuity. The most extensive conservation easements in Humboldt County are in the headwaters of the Mattole River, where Sanctuary Forest Inc. and the state Wildlife Conservation Board have acquired easements on approximately 2300 acres since 1987. Caltrans officials say they will encourage Arcata residents in particular to travel south via Highway 255. Local Caltrans staff will also be making a decision soon whether to increase the speed limit on 101 between Eureka and Arcata to 60 mph.
Proponents say that the increase is needed because most drivers travel above the limit anyway.
The critical habitat designation is the latest in what PL considers a series of unreasonable federal restrictions on its right to use its property. The non-native squawfish is proliferating in the Eel River, in part because it faces few natural predators. The silt-filled river has also grown wider, shallower and warmer over the years, forcing young salmon to congregate in the remaining deep, cool pools, which makes them an easy meal for the squawfish. Contestants receive a lottery ticket for every one they bring in. Some of the kids have gotten real good at it and won a lot of prizes.