Twisp River Conservation Acquisition 2

This grant provides funding to the Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation. The subject parcels (3322070187, 3322180154, 3322180033, 3322070059) are located on the left bank of the Twisp River, about 0.9 to 1.0 mile above its confluence with the Methow River, directly across from the MSRF restoration site on the right bank. Historically, the Twisp River meandered through these properties providing sensitive habitat during all life stages for listed fish stocks. Like many areas in the lower Twisp, roads and dikes have been built to isolate the river from its floodplain. Together, these properties represent an unusual opportunity to acquire and protect more than 1,000 lineal feet of waterfront along the lower reach of the Twisp River. The acquisition and protection of these properties will allow long term recovery of natural processes.

This purchase complements prior purchase and protection efforts on the right bank opposite the subject properties, completed by MSRF between 2003 and 2006 (00-1676C & 05-1469A). The primary objective is to actively protect and restore these properties by purchasing and retiring the development rights that conflict with riparian and floodplain functions. Once the easements have been completed, then the structures within the floodplain that impair habitat functions (home site, septic, riprap, etc.), will be removed. The property will then be managed for a mix of uses supporting salmon recovery, passive public recreation, and environmental education. Re-vegetation with native species will increase habitat complexity and bank stability.

The goal of the project is to protect intact habitat from degradation. The objective of the project is to protect salmon refugia and habitat that is part of a key ecological process.