MDF Partners to Purchase Habitat in Southeast Washington

SALT LAKE CITY – Earlier this month, the Washington Dept. of Fish and Wildlife negotiated a deal to conserve 1,144 acres in the southeast corner of the state and open it up to public access. The Mule Deer Foundation and other conservation groups contributed money toward the purchase price of $624,500, in conjunction with a sizeable federal grant for the protection of critical habitat that supports threatened and endangered species.

The property previously belonged to Frank and Betty Koch, and is located in Asotin County, along Charley Creek and Asotin Creek. Under state ownership it will continue to provide habitat for a number of threatened fish species, upland game birds, elk, bighorn sheep, mule deer and more.

Hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts will have non-motorized access to the property, which borders other land owned by the Department as well as acreage managed by the Umatilla National Forest. The new acquisition will be known as the Koch Segment of the Asotin Wildlife Area and be marked with a sign near the mouth of Charley Creek.

The Mule Deer Foundation is a national non-profit 501(c)3 organization and is one of the key conservation groups in North America working to restore, improve and protect mule deer, black-tailed deer and their habitat. With a focus on science and program efficiency, MDF has raised millions of dollars and put countless hours on the ground for mission-critical projects. MDF acknowledges regulated hunting as a viable management component and is committed to recruitment and retention of youth into the shooting sports and conservation. For information about the Mule Deer Foundation please call 888-375-3337.