One hundred hunters can soon participate in no-fee waterfowl hunts amid restored salt ponds at Eden Landing Ecological Reserve, or ELER, in Hayward.

Access to ELER will be open to 100 hunters on a first-come, first-served basis on the following dates:

2019 hunts:

Saturday, Nov. 23: Check-in at 5 a.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 3: Check-in at 5 a.m.
Saturday, Dec. 7: Check-in at 5 a.m.
Thursday, Dec. 12: Check-in at 5 a.m.
Tuesday, Dec. 17: Check-in at 5 a.m.
Saturday, Dec. 21: Check-in at 5 a.m.

2020 hunts:

Saturday, Jan. 4: Check-in at 5:30 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 9: Check-in at 5:30 a.m.
Saturday, Jan.18: Check-in at 5:30 a.m.
Thursday, Jan. 23: Check-in at 5:30 a.m.

"Eden Landing waterfowl hunts are unique in that there are no fees charged and hunting is offered on some Tuesdays and Thursdays when many public waterfowl hunting areas are closed," said ELER Manager John Krause. "These hunts produced a three-bird average last season, with northern shoveler and American wigeon being the most commonly taken."

Improvements have been made to ELER including a boat launch on Mount Eden Creek allowing access to tidal areas. Boaters are advised to consult local tide charts before launching as mud flats can subject vessels to hidden underwater hazards during low tides.

There is a 25-shell limit in the field and non-lead ammunition is required when taking wildlife anywhere in California. A small boat, canoe or other flotation device is highly recommended to access ponds and blinds. A hunting dog is recommended for retrieving birds. Hunters are responsible for avoiding closed areas.

To access ELER from Interstate 880: Exit at Alvarado Boulevard; continue west and turn right on Union City Boulevard; left on Bettencourt Road (look for Union Sanitary District sign); left on Whipple Road, right on Horner Street; right on Veasy Street. Enter at the yellow gate and proceed to the check station.

Adult hunters must have a valid California Hunting License, federal duck stamp, state duck stamp and Harvest Information Program validations. Junior hunters must have a junior license and, if 16 or older, also possess a federal duck stamp. Junior hunters must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older (hunter or non-hunter).

Formal plans for public access opportunities at the reserve in addition to hunting are being developed as part of the South Bay Salt Ponds Restoration Project. More information is available at www.southbayrestoration.org.