Methow Rapids NAP Natural Area 2020

Category Overview

As Washington continues to grow, many of our most beautiful areas are threatened with development. In addition, native ecosystems are receding, and important wildlife habitat and migratory pathways are being cut off. The Natural Areas category helps combat this by funding projects that protect wildlife habitat and rare geological features while also preserving public access for back-country recreation.

Project Highlights

The Washington Department of Natural Resources will use this grant to buy 569 acres of shrub steppe for inclusion in the Methow Rapids Natural Area Preserve, conserving a rare plant community. The land is along the Columbia River, just downstream from its confluence with the Methow River. The land contains the largest of only three intact examples of the smooth sumac/bluebunch wheatgrass community in the state and the largest of only nine intact examples of the antelope bitterbrush/bluebunch wheatgrass community in the state. Several species of birds found on the land are listed as Species of Greatest Conservation Need in the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife State Wildlife Action Plan. The land also will improve public access from Starr Road and State Route 97.

Quick Facts

WWRP Applicant: Natural Resources Dept of Category: Natural Areas WWRP Grant: $2,594,003.00 Applicant Match: $0.00 Project Type: Acquisition County: Okanogan Legislative District: 12 Status: Active RCO Project # 20-1423

Location Details

The site is located approximately 2 miles south of Pateros along Highway 97. The majority of the site is situated east of Highway 97 and west of Starr Rd. Portions of the site are located west of Highway and east of Starr Rd.

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.