The Black River wetland and riparian habitats make up one of the largest undisturbed freshwater wetland systems remaining in Puget Sound. The river's diverse habitats include three WDFW priority habitats under the Priority Habitats and Species Program: prairie oak woodlands, sphagnum bogs, and wet prairies. The Black River Conservation Initiative seeks to protect 330 acres of intact and highly complex riparian and 70 acres of associated upland habitat through a permanent conservation easement along both the main-stem of the Black River and a major tributary, Mima Creek. The majority of habitat is a rare wetland habitat type, unique to the Black River, identified by Washington Natural Heritage Program as low elevation riparian wetland. The project will also protect a prime riparian corridor utilized by elk, deer, bear, and several other terrestrial species, and also provides habitat for listed salmonid species and the Oregon spotted frog. Multiple plans support the protection of this property including Chehalis Basin Salmon Plan, the Nature Conservancy Black River Conservation Action Plan, and the Thurston County Parks and Recreation Plan. Public support for the project is significant with partners from local, state, federal, and non-profit agencies. The site is highly vulnerable to fragmentation through residential development. Finally, there is a significant recreation opportunity on the property as the Thurston County "Gate to Belmore" trail dissects the site and will provide public recreation access.