WDFW seeks public comment on proposed land acquisitions in Grant and Okanogan counties

Comments accepted through March 29

OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is inviting public comment on two proposed land acquisitions that would help promote fish and wildlife conservation and access to the great outdoors.  

The proposal includes about 538 acres in total with acquisitions in Grant and Okanogan counties. One project would conserve about 379 acres at risk of commercial and residential development in partnership with the Methow Conservancy in the Methow watershed. Another project would conserve about 159 acres in the Babcock Bench area of the Columbia Basin Wildlife Area, Quincy Lake Unit. The property provides significant recreational opportunities as well as space to reduce overcrowding in an area popular for rock climbing.

The proposals are currently under an expedited review through the Department’s Lands 20/20: A Vision for the Future process. The rigorous review process considers species and habitat management plans, regional conservation initiatives, community perspectives, and outdoor recreation. 

These expedited proposals are in addition to those approved in the annual round of Lands 20/20 projects, which WDFW Director Kelly Susewind approved in Dec. 2022. Due to emergent and limited funding opportunities and urgency associated with potential sale and development of the specific projects, these are being brought forth outside the normal annual process.  

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission will receive a briefing on these proposed land acquisitions during its April 6-8 meeting in Anacortes. More information is available on the Commission webpage. 

More information about these proposed land acquisitions is available on WDFW’s land acquisitions webpage. WDFW is accepting public comment on the proposed acquisitions via email to lands@dfw.wa.gov through March 29, 2023. Members of the public who have limited or no internet connection may also mail written comments to:
 
Wildlife Program
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
PO Box 43200
Olympia, WA 98504

Following public review and Commission briefing, the Department will move the proposed projects forward for the WDFW Director’s consideration.  

All members of the public are invited to share their diverse perspectives and participate in WDFW public feedback opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, or basis of disability.

WDFW manages more than a million acres of land and hundreds of water access areas throughout the state. By actively managing lands, restoring habitats, and preserving wild places, the Department serves as stewards for Washington’s natural places, protecting the state’s land and water for its human and wildlife populations.