Improvements are coming to the Gray Lodge Wildlife Area in Butte County.

Hosting more than 100,000 visitors each year, Gray Lodge is one of the most heavily visited wildlife areas in the state and construction work will restrict some public access over the next several months.

Work is scheduled to begin this month at the Wetland Discovery nature trail, the viewing mound and the two viewing hides on the west side of the wildlife area near Parking Lot 14. Improved entrance gates will be installed on the east and west entrances to the area. Some nearby hiking trails will be closed during this construction period and there will be periodic roadway impediments during construction as well. Work is expected to conclude around the first week in October, reopening in time for bird watching during peak fall and winter migrations.

Crews will remove and replace the viewing mound structure along the Wetland Discovery Trail. The pathway will be enhanced with treated granite to improve public access. A roof replacement project will occur at the viewing hides, which will increase the life of the structure while improving the viewing experience.

At the entrance to the wildlife area, security gates will be installed on the east and west side, replacing existing swing sentinel gates. This will increase security while protecting the public resources on Gray Lodge.

This work is being funded through the Safe Neighborhood Parks, Clean Water, Clean Air and Coastal Protection Bond Act of 2000 to enhance recreational access and visitor amenities and to restore and enhance wildlife habitat.

For questions or additional information, contact Gray Lodge directly at (530) 846-7500.