Category Overview
Critical Habitat projects are our state’s primary tool for conserving important fish and wildlife habitat. These projects protect the rich and diverse habitats in our forests, prairies, and wetlands. These funds help maintain our state’s biodiversity and protect species that are popular for hunting, birding, and other outdoor recreation, and are critical for the health of our salmon and fish populations.
Project Highlights
The Department of Fish and Wildlife will use this grant to buy approximately 1,200 acres on the western edge of a larger 7,500-acre overall acquisition strategy located between State Route 504 and the Mount Saint Helens Wildlife Area in Cowlitz County. The acquisition includes the transition zone between elk winter and summer ranges with forest and open meadows and will secure year-round public access to the Mudflow and Hoffstadt Units of the wildlife area. The primary conservation benefit provided by this project is protection of elk winter range habitat.