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 conserve about 479 acres of shrubsteppe habitat five miles southwest of Oroville in Okanogan County. The land is next to Blue Lake and borders other state-owned land. The purchase includes about a quarter mile of Blue Lake shoreline and will expand recreational opportunities for water access, hiking, boating, camping, hunting, and wildlife viewing. The primary conservation benefit provided by this project is protection of shrubsteppe and riparian habitats for species including mule deer and the gray wolf.