WDFW purchased 409 acres of agricultural land along the Samish Island Road, west of Highway 237, between 1996 and 2000. Enhancement projects are improving water management capabilities to better control wetlands in highly altered (diked and drained) systems and attempt to mimic the habitat types that would have occurred naturally across a larger landscape. Re-establishment of wetland plant communities supports a wider variety of birds that might use these areas during migration or winter. Twenty-three ponds on this unit will provide the foundation for future wetland management options. Cereal grains are planted on about one half of the acreage for wintering waterfowl, shorebirds, and other wildlife. Recreational activities include waterfowl hunting, a weekend youth-only pheasant hunt, and observation of waterfowl, shorebirds, and birds of prey. Project partners, including Ducks Unlimited and the Washington Waterfowl Association, are working with WDFW to improve ADA access, including a parking area for about 30 vehicles and a short trail to the first pond.
Viewing Opportunities
Birds
Birds of Prey
Eagles
Marine Brids
Shorebirds
Songbirds
Upland Birds
Wading Birds
Waterfowl
Mammals
Small Mammals
Other
Butterflies
Reptiles/Amphibians
How to Get Here
Click Here
for Printable
Map and Driving Directions
Access Site #1
Driving Directions From Interstate 5, go west on Highway 20 to the Bayview-Edison Road. Turn right (north) and follow the Bayview-Edison Road through Bayview, past the state park and down onto the Samish Flats until the road ends at a "T" intersection. Turn right onto Samish Island Road and proceed until the 90-degree turn to the north. The parking area is straight ahead at the corner.
Parking/Restroom Information Parking and restroom facilities are available.
Other Information This Unit is closed during hours of darkness.
Unique Features
This is a popular waterfowl hunting and wildlife watching site planted with barley and/or corn to enhance food resources for wintering waterfowl.
Other Information
A 15-shell restriction is in place on this Unit. Please refer to the waterfowl regulations for more information.
A Discover Pass or WDFW Vehicle Access Pass
is required on all WDFW lands. Learn more at DiscoverPass.wa.gov
OTHER INFORMATION
