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 Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will use this grant to acquire approximately 1,350 acres of forest and aquatic land habitat on the east slope of the central Cascade Mountains in Kittitas County. The property is located approximately 20 miles southwest of Ellensburg between the LT Murray Wildlife Area to the east and the National Forest to the west. This acquisition will conserve critical habitat in a biologically rich and high priority location by protecting breeding and foraging areas used by the northern spotted owl and streams used by steelhead and salmon. Additionally, it will protect popular public access through these lands to public lands.