North End Douglas Creek Revitalization Plan
HISTORY
The Bureau of Land Management administers over 29,000 acres in the Douglas Creek area of north central WA. Douglas Creek canyon is a riparian oasis in the sagebrush hills. BLM manages the area for free, dispersed recreation, and there are no recreational facilities. A Douglas County primitive road follows the creek through the canyon. The area offers diverse recreational opportunities year-round, including camping, fishing, hiking, and birding and also features designated wildflower viewing areas identified by the BLM. Annual interpretive hikes and bilingual service projects enhance public engagement. Interpretive signs and an old railroad trail highlights the area’s natural features, and additional educational opportunities about local history and geology are extensive.
Project Proposal: Protect Douglas Creek and Add Recreational Facilities
Designate 10 campsites
Install 2 outhouses
Add bulletin boards, educational and informational
signing
Maps of area and trails
Riparian planting and protection barriers
CHALLENGES
Over 7500 people visit Douglas Creek canyon each year
There are no recreational facilities in the area, so there are issues with garbage, sanitation and management
Creek banks and riparian area are being impacted by vehicles driving through and camping in large dispersed areas
Riparian vegetation is being affected by visitors
EDUCATION
Douglas Creek has been utilized as a field trip location for the Waterville School District for over 18 years. Leading to student-led research projects that have yielded significant accomplishments focused on environmental studies, improving health of riparian zones, and community engagement.
Photo Credit: Dave Masuda