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Nelson Ranch Farmland
- Status
- Funded in 2009
Okanogan County will use this grant to buy a permanent agricultural easement to protect 1,026 acres of working rangeland at Nelson’s Ranch. Five generations have worked this ranch for 108 years. It is one of the few remaining in the Okanogan Highlands and contributes significantly to the agricultural economy of the county. The ranch has high biological and historical value. Muskrat Lake and several springs on the property create outstanding habitat for migratory birds and waterfowl. About 60 percent of the soils are classified as soils of statewide importance. Nelson Ranch has scenic vistas visible from two county roads. Protection of Nelson Ranch will be the first example of preservation of large working lands in the Okanogan Highlands and will ensure family succession and continued cattle ranching operations. The easement will be co-held by Okanogan County and the Okanogan Valley Land Council and will restrict subdivision and residential development. The county will contribute $646,350 in donations of cash, labor, and materials, and a federal grant.
What is the WWRP?
The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP) is a state grant program that creates and conserves local and state parks, wildlife habitat and working farms. The Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office administers WWRP grants, and the legislature funds the program.
