In mid-August 2005, Ducks Unlimited completed the California Department of Fish and Game (Department) Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area's largest habitat improvement project to date, and the Department has it ready for the birds. Ducks Unlimited has provided funding to assist with restoring many of the acquired fallow farmlands located within the bypass.

 

The project added new ponds with nesting islands...


The project, funded by the California Wildlife Conservation Board (WCB) and the North America Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) and Ducks Unlimited, improved more than 1,000 acres of wetlands and associated uplands. The major habitat improvement activities involved extensive earthwork, replacing degraded water control structures and planting wetland vegetation.

 

... and a variety of sloughs and other waterways.

The Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area is a central and critical link in the Central Valley's chain of wetlands used by over 3 million migrating and wintering waterfowl. In addition to increased waterfowl habitat, other benefits from the project include improved habitat for shorebirds, wading birds, upland game, sensitive species, and additional recreation opportunities for both hunters and wildlife watchers.

With completion of this latest project, hunters and other visitors should have an increased level of satisfaction when enjoying this public area. The Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area is a work in progress, and Ducks Unlimited and the Department are planning several subsequent projects. Ducks Unlimited's strong partnership with the Department, WCB and NAWCA will continue to provide habitat for waterfowl, increase public access, and recreation opportunities in the Yolo Bypass for years to come.