The Nature Conservancy Adds 47,921 Acres near Cle Elum for Conservation, Recreation
Our friends at The Nature Conservancy made big news yesterday when they announced the acquisition of 47,921 acres of land in the Central Cascades along I-90 near Cle Elum. While conservation of the ecologically rich area is a primary goal, recreational access and community input will remain a key aspect of how they hope to manage the land.
Our friends at The Nature Conservancy made big news yesterday when they announced the historic acquisition of 47,921 acres of land in the Central Cascades along I-90 near Cle Elum.
While conservation of the ecologically rich area is a primary goal, recreational access will remain a key aspect of how they hope to manage the land.
Where is the land?
The property sits on both sides of I-90 between Snoqualmie Pass and Ellensburg in a popular area for hikers from all over the state. It is adjacent to the Teanaway Community Forest, touches three lakes: Keechelus, Kachess and Cle Elum and sits at the headwaters of the Yakima River. A portion of the land acquisition is also in the Little Naches headwaters, accessible by highway 410.
See the full map on The Nature Conservancy in Washington site.
What's the plan for the land?
The Nature Conservancy says it plans to engage with local partners and communities as it creates the best way to manage the lands for wildlife, recreation and as a source of clean water in the Upper Yakima Basin.
In a clear message to the hikers who wonder if they'll be able to explore the lands, Melissa Garvey, the Deputy State Director of TNC told the Seattle PI, "We’re not just about forest restoration, we’re allowing public access for recreation.”
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