Heart of the Cascades 2014

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.

Quick Facts

WWRP Applicant: Fish & Wildlife Dept of Category: Critical Habitat WWRP Grant: 4000000 Applicant Match: 0 Project Type: Acquisition County: Kittitas Legislative District: 13 Status: Active RCO Project # 14-1090

Location Details

5 miles west of Ellensburg take exit 101 off I 90. Turn onto Thorp Highway south. Next, turn right onto Thorp Cemetary Road. Continue straight and the roads turns into NF 3300 W Taneum Road. Go roughly 8.3 miles and go left onto the 3120 road. Proceed ~5.8 miles and turn right onto the 3100 road. Proceed ~ 1 mile and enter section 7

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.