Klickitat Canyon Natural Resources Conservation Area protects habitat, views.

The dotted line shows the expanded boundary of the Klickitat Canyon NRCA that will help DNR protect more land from development by seeking grants and other funds to purchase parcels from willing private sellers. Image: DNR

The 1,500-acre Klickitat Canyon Natural Resources Conservation Area in Yakima County originally was established for its geologic and scenic qualities. The (currently) 600 acres managed by DNR feature a dramatic canyon with the Klickitat River below. Recent analysis revealed additional important ecological features, such as rare plants and habitat for the state endangered sandhill crane. Ponderosa pines dominate the forests here, and the site is home to black bear, bobcat, deer, bald eagles and an assortment of other birds.Last October, DNR added about 128 acres to the portion of the NRCA it manages by purchasing a large parcel from a private owner.

You may ask: ‘Why doesn’t DNR own and manage the entire NRCA?’

The borders DNR sets for an NRCA identify the ecosystem most suitable for conservation. DNR might only manage part of the land within an NRCA’s border, with the remainder possibly in the hands of private owners, non-profits or public agenciesDesignating an NRCA boundary does not impose additional rules or restrictions on the private or tribal landowners in the area. It allows DNR options to seek outside grants to purchase the private lands, if the sellers are willing. Sources include the Washington Wildlife & Recreation Program grants awarded by the Recreation & Conservation Office (RCO). Lands managed for other state trusts could be obtained for an NRCA through the legislatively funded Trust Land Transfer program. The boundary designation also helps non-profit conservation organizations DNR frequently works with to also seek grants. For example, the Columbia Land Trust is an important partner with DNR in the Klickitat Canyon NRCA.

The NRCA system was established by the Washington State Legislature in 1987 to protect outstanding examples of native ecosystems. They also provide habitat for endangered, threatened and sensitive plants and animals. Recreational uses, such as hiking, must be low-impact and not harm the resources and species on the lands. There are about 88,000 acres designated as NRCA lands in Washington.

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