A big win for fish & healthy rivers

Clean, cold water and healthy habitat along streams are vital for fish, wildlife, and people. Conservation-minded landowners are helping to ensure that our rivers are healthy now and for future generations.

Nason Creek

We are thrilled to share the news of a big win for fish, wildlife, and the waters of Nason Creek. The Land Trust just acquired 73 acres of prime habitat with nearly a mile of riverfront along lower Nason Creek. This project includes 63 acres donated by Grant County PUD, and the adjoining 10 acres purchased from Bob and Darlyn McCarty, owners of the Blue Grouse Lodge, who decided to divide and permanently protect the rear part of their property for conservation.

“Over the years we have enjoyed watching the wildlife and the salmon in and around Nason Creek. Our decision came easily to divide our 20 acres and sell the undeveloped 10 acres to Land Trust – thereby preserving a little part of the area for nature.”

Years earlier, they sold riverfront property near Snohomish and were not happy with the stewardship of their successors. The McCartys were determined to leave a lasting legacy of conservation.

Entiat River

Critical side channels and floodplain will now be reconnected to the river thanks to our recent purchase of 13 acres along the Entiat River from the Enlow family. Removing imported fill that currently cuts off much of the property from the river will allow it once again to provide high quality rearing habitat for juvenile salmon and allow the floodplain to fully function again, storing cold water that is gradually released to the Entiat River throughout the year. The Land Trust will partner with other organizations to relocate the house built on the fill and restore the site’s native vegetation.

The Enlow family decided to sell their property a couple of years ago so the Land Trust reached out to them about purchasing it. Tom Enlow shared that, “when we learned of the restoration plans, it was an easy decision to commit our property and support their vision. The property is unique and deserving of returning to its wild, natural state. Thank you Chelan-Douglas Land Trust!”

The property is directly across the river from land that the Land Trust already owns, and will provide new public access to the “Stillwaters” section of the river.