FEDERATION OF WESTERN OUTDOOR CLUBS

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ESTABLISHMENT OF A CONSERVATION PARK IN KELSO, WASHINGTON 

Just east of Kelso, Washington, 240 acres of wetlands and old-growth forest have been set aside as wilderness. They were protected as an outcome of land transfers made by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) of the state of Washington.

An effort is being made, with strong local support, to protect a surrounding tract of 1,000 acres as a conservation park. This park would provide an opportunity to study the value of clean water and its relationship to habitat for various species of wildlife. It is an ideal location for a conservation park because highly diverse habitats, including migration routes, exist in close proximity. Four nests for bald eagles have been identified and registered in the area.

Supporters of the park seek to find an agency willing to accept the management of the area. Doing so will enable them to obtain a grant to purchase the land. They believe that the Washington state DNR is the appropriate agency to fulfill this role.

The Federation of Western Outdoor Clubs supports the establishment of a conservation park in Kelso, Washington and urges the Washington DNR to accept management responsibilities for this outstanding area.

Contact: Please write to Andrea Grimes, Conservation District, DNR, P.O.Box 47001, Olympia, WA 98504