Washington

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

Washington Department of Natural Resources – Natural Heritage Program
(http://www.dnr.wa.gov/ResearchScience/Topics/NaturalHeritage/Pages/amp_nh.aspx)
The Natural Heritage Program provides information on state and federal threatened and endangered plants and wildlife, habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources. County-level lists of threatened and endangered plant species are available for download. In addition, a Township-Range-Section list can be utilized to identify biologically sensitive areas. A statewide list of threatened and endangered wildlife species is available while more site-specific data on wildlife can be obtained by contacting the Department of Fish and Wildlife. **In most cases, landowners can be provided with site-specific information free of charge.

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (http://wdfw.wa.gov/)
This is the agency responsible for the conservation and management of the state’s wildlife and aquatic resources. In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

Washington Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation (http://www.dahp.wa.gov/)
This is the primary state agency with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties, archaeological sites, burial places, and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The Department maintains the Washington Information System for Architectural and Archaeological Records Data which allows users to search for historic and cultural resources via a map or a text query.  The information collected on archeological resources requires authorization to access.

Natural Resources Conservation Service - Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The following list can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator: http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/ECS/culture/newdir.pdf/

Washington State Archives (http://www.sos.wa.gov/archives/Default.aspx)
The State Archives identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records) and other documents of historical value to the state.

Best Management Practices