The Yakima River Canyon is the embodiment of Central Washington’s natural beauty. With breathtaking shrub steppe vistas, rich riparian lands and important geological and cultural history, it is both the heart of outdoor recreation and one of the most ecologically significant landscapes in Kittitas and Yakima Counties. The Canyon is vitally important to the region's economy, community and environment. Forterra has been leading an effort to highlight and prioritize the importance of the Canyon.

In 1968, Governor Dan Evans recognized the significance of this Canyon and designated it Washington’s first Scenic Byway. Outdoor enthusiasts come from far and wide for the Canyon’s exceptional blue ribbon fishing, river rafting, biking, hunting and more. The landscape also provides critical habitat for migratory fish, raptor birds and bighorn sheep.
    
Forterra has been working with a broad base of partners to update the corridor management plan, a blueprint for the Byway that was never implemented.  Currently, we are working to conserve the Bighorn Umtanum property, 700 acres in the heart of the Canyon. This stunning landscape is critical for securing public access and preserving the natural beauty of the Canyon.

Funding Conservation

We received a $1.6m grant to assist with the purchase of the property and are currently reaching out to the community to help us raise $400k to get us closer to the purchase price. You can help us reach this goal!
 
For more information or to learn how you can help, please contact our Kittitas office at (509) 962-1654 or info@forterra.org.