Columbia Basin Wildlife Area Management Plan (2022)

The Columbia Basin Wildlife Area in Central Washington is one of 33 wildlife areas managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). The lands lie in the traditional territory of the s?kwa´xc??n?x?, or the Moses- Columbia Indians. This unique landscape provides habitat for variety of waterfowl, birds of prey, reptiles, small game, mule deer, and many other species.

People are drawn to the area for the exceptional waterfowl hunting, quality mule deer hunting, warmwater fishing, primitive camping, boating, birding, climbing, hiking, horseback riding, nature appreciation, and other outdoor activities. Managing and balancing the needs of fish, wildlife, and people on these public lands is essential to ensure the species thrive and people enjoy and support public lands.

The management plan includes descriptions of the 13 wildlife area units within the 192,568-acre wildlife area and highlights successful projects and recreation opportunities. The plan also describes WDFW’s overall management approach within the wildlife area, information on resident species, habitats, hydrology, geology, and how management will adapt with climate change.

Three main goals of this management plan are to: 1) manage and enhance the function and value of wetlands; 2) manage and enhance upland habitat; and 3) manage and improve the traditional and emerging recreation opportunities. Within these main categories, the management plan lays out specific objectives and output measures, and references implementation of other specific resources such as the weed management plan and wetland management guidance. Specific measurements are shown in the table below.

Implementation of these goals and objectives will improve wetland function in strategic areas, improve habitats to better support fish and wildlife, and improve recreational experiences. WDFW staff track progress on this work annually and provide public updates every two years.