Project Land Species

There are nearly 120 miles of shoreline within the Priest Rapids Project. The land along and adjacent to the shore is refuge for hundreds of different plant and animal species. The Grant County PUD has conducted studies to document the range of species living in and using project lands. Over 30,000 observations of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians are recorded. Large animals include mule deer, Rocky Mountain elk and Bighorn sheep. Cougar and deer tracks have been found near streams on the west-side of the river near the Colockum Wildlife Recreation Area. As many as 160 species of birds have been identified. Grant PUD has also undertaken a mapping project that distinguishes what types of plant species grow in specific areas of the project.

Conservation and Wildlife Refuge

A large portion of the Priest Rapids Project area is managed for conservation providing thousands of acres of relatively undisturbed habitat for plants and animals. As part of an agreement with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife that was made when the utility received their first license to operate the project, Grant PUD has provided funds for the purchase of lands for wildlife refuges. Most notable is the 20,918 acre Crab Creek Wildlife Recreation Area near Priest Rapids Dam.

Stewardship for Plant and Animal Species

Over the last five years Grant County PUD has undertaken several studies to document the presence or absence of rare, threatened or endangered plant or animal species. In the spring of 2000, a 3-year Terrestrial Habitat Assessment was initiated. This survey provided information on the presence of migratory and breeding birds, small mammals, amphibians, reptiles and habitat.

A complete listing of plant and animal species found within the Priest Rapids Project can be found in the Wildlife and Botanical Resources section of the utility’s Final Relicensing application under exhibit E-5.