Local News

Restoration Work in Backcountry

Mar 10, 2015

Resource specialists on the Methow Valley Ranger District are analyzing effects of implementing backcountry and wilderness restoration projects. The restoration work would restore native vegetation that has experienced undesirable impacts associated with high levels of recreation use.

The six locations being considered for restoration as part of this project include Blue Lake, Heather Pass, Maple Pass, Lake Anne and Cutthroat Lake in the North Cascades Scenic Area (Highway 20), and Fred’s Lake in the Pasayten wilderness. The restoration work is proposed as part of the Treasured Landscape Campaign.

“The sites are being loved to death,” said Methow Valley District Ranger Michael Liu. Heather has been trampled by user created trails and campsites to the point that it won’t adequately regrow naturally.”

Using site closure signs and natural materials, the undesired visitor created trails and campsites would be closed, and heather would be re-planted to facilitate site restoration. Compacted soil would be loosened and organic material may be added to aid in seed germination.

For more information about the project, please contact Amber Deming, lead Wilderness Ranger at 509-996-4051.