Treasured Landscapes, Unforgettable Experiences

Photo by NFF

The Majestic Methow on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

Working closely with community partners and the Forest Service, the NFF restored many areas in the Methow Valley on the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest to improve wildlife habitat and recreation experiences.

Due to the geographic stretch of the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, which spans much of central Washington, no one single landscape dominates the forest. From the shrub-steppe of the eastern edge to heavy, old-growth forests to the snowy peaks of the Cascades—this forest has it all.

The Methow Valley lures the urban population of Puget Sound to this iconic landscape of big valleys, open wild spaces, high ridges and beautiful rivers. Amidst the pristine landscape of the National Forest, the Methow River, the valley’s namesake, provides critical spawning and rearing habitat for endangered and threatened Chinook salmon, steelhead and bull trout.


Miguel Vieira

A number of different factors threaten the overall health of the Majestic Methow. The forest has experienced wildlife and fish habitat loss, impacts on popular hiking trails and uncharacteristic wildfires. Since 2013, we worked with the Forest Service and local partners to restore this amazing landscape.

Our efforts have supported a comprehensive restoration and community engagement strategy, including fish and wildlife habitat restoration, trail restoration and maintenance to support sustainable recreational use, forest restoration including fuels reduction, and the removal of invasive plants.

From the shrub-steppe of the eastern edge to heavy, old-growth forests to the snowy peaks of the Cascades—this forest has it all and we will ensure it stays healthy for future generations.

Photo by Natalie Kuehler