The large wetland area spreads out at the lower end of the Chehalis River just upstream from where it empties into Gray's Harbor.  Sitka spruce and western red cedar thrive in the wet soils where fresh and salt water mingle on this 2,643 acre site.  This preserve contains the largest and best quality tidal surge plain wetland in the state.  The site protects sloughs which are important for sheltering young salmon and other fish.  The surge plain also supports osprey, bald eagles, a federally Threatened species, and Olympic mudminnows, a state Sensitive species.  (Grays Harbor County)

DNR Invites the Public to Discuss Chehalis River Surge Plain Natural Area Preserve Draft Plan

The Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is seeking public participation to review and provide comments on the draft management plan for the Chehalis River Surge Plain Natural Area Preserve (NAP).

A public meeting will be held from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Monday, December 1, at the Montesano City Hall meeting room, second floor. City Hall is located at 112 N. Main Street. DNR staff will present highlights of the plan. Although the meeting is not a formal hearing, participants will be able to speak for the record.  Informal discussion with staff will follow recorded comments. 

Copies of the draft management plan are available at the Montesano and Aberdeen public libraries, Montesano City Hall, the WSU office at the Grays Harbor Fairgrounds in Elma.

In addition to comments gathered during the meeting, DNR welcomes written comments on the plan through December 15.  Mail comments to Attn.  Birdie Davenport, DNR Pacific Cascade Region, P.O. Box 280, Castle Rock, WA 98611; or send e-mail to  roberta.davenport@dnr.wa.gov.