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
Located within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, Table Mountain NRCA contains spectacular views, unusual plant assemblages, threatened plants, numerous monitor-listed plants, exposed rocky ridges and open flats. It has one of the few original forests on the Washington side of the Gorge. Wildlife use is high and includes a diversity of species, including elk, bear, cougars, etc. The NRCA is prime Peregrine Falcon habitat and contains salmonid stocks. Other rare species include Giant Salamanders, Cascade Torrent Salamanders, Tailed Frog, nesting Pileated Woodpeckers, and many endemic plants, such as the rare Howell’s daisy. Additional private properties are needed to protect the site from resource development and block up the existing conservation area to increase site viability and manageability. The Pacific Crest trail goes across the NRCA. Loop trails through Greenleaf Basin are planned by the U.S. Forest Service that will connect with adjacent Beacon Rock State Park.