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 Chelan-Douglas Land Trust will use this grant to acquire 1,396 acres of high quality shrub-steppe near Spiva Butte in northern Douglas County. The property is a mosaic of deep and shallow lithosol vegetation communities, and also includes over 11,000 feet of Deep Creek plus 50 acres of wetlands and 10 acres of lake. The primary conservation value provided by this grant is high-quality shrub-steppe habitat for sage grouse, sharp-tailed grouse, Washington ground squirrel, mule deer, and other wildlife, as well as public enjoyment across scenic and varied habitats. Priority habitats on the property include: aspen stands; biodiversity area and corridors; freshwater wetlands; shrub-steppe; talus. Priority species confirmed present on or near the property include: sagebrush lizard; golden eagle; loggerhead shrike; burrowing owl; greater sage-grouse; Columbian sharp-tailed grouse; Rocky mountain mule deer; sage thrasher; white-tailed jackrabbit; Washington ground squirrel, silver-bordered fritillary, myotis species, and several others.