This 331-acre reserve is located on the north side of Francis Road, southwest of Sedro Woolley and northeast of Mount Vernon. The property was bought in 1995-97 to provide a non-hunted upland reserve for trumpeter and tundra swans where they can feed and rest during the winter. It contains forest, a backwater slough of the Skagit River, and managed agricultural fields. Corn is planted for swans; cereal grains for ducks. Public access is restricted to two parking/viewing areas with access for the disabled. Waterfowl hunting is allowed on the eastern portion of the property adjacent to the reserve.
Viewing Opportunities
Birds
Birds of Prey
Eagles
Songbirds
Waterfowl
Mammals
Deer
Small Mammals
How to Get Here
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for Printable
Map and Driving Directions
Access Site #1
Driving Directions From I-5 northbound, take the College Way exit (#227) in Mt. Vernon, east to LaVenture Road. Turn left (north), and continue on this road (it turns into Francis Road) for a few miles as it snakes its way northeast through the flats. At a 90-degree corner, you will see the sign adjacent to a roadside parking area, and a short gravel road called DeBay Isle Road. You may turn left down DeBay Isle Road to get to the Reserve area. If the gate at the end of the road is closed, park in the parking area on Francis Road and walk in.
Parking/Restroom Information There two parking areas at this Unit.
Other Information This Unit is closed during hours of darkness.
Unique Features
The area to the south of DeBay Isle Road and west of DeBay's Slough is a Game Reserve. The area to the north of DeBay Isle Road and east of the slough is open to hunting, including the fields to the north of the Francis Road parking lot.
Other Information
Swans typically roost during the night on DeBay's Slough. A variety of waterfowl also use the slough and fields on the Reserve.
A Discover Pass or WDFW Vehicle Access Pass
is required on all WDFW lands. Learn more at DiscoverPass.wa.gov
OTHER INFORMATION
