WDFW seeks public comment on closure to protect sandhill cranes on Methow Wildlife Area

WINTHROP - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is inviting public comment on a proposed 240-acre closure in the Big Valley Unit of the Methow Wildlife Area to protect endangered sandhill cranes. 

The proposed closure would begin at 12:01 a.m. on April 17 and end at 11:59 p.m. Sept. 30. There may be similar spring closures in subsequent years. Closed areas will be identified with signs, physical barriers, and maps detailing the closure boundaries. No public access will be permitted within the closure boundaries.

The Methow Valley offers core nesting habitat for the state-endangered sandhill crane. Since 2021, a successful breeding pair of sandhill cranes has taken up residence at the Big Valley Unit. 

Members of the public can comment on the State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) determination for the proposed closure as part of the SEPA review process. Refer to the WDFW SEPA webpage for more information. 

WDFW is accepting comments online and by email through 5 p.m. on March 10.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.