Kitsap Forest Natural Area Preserve

Mature and old growth douglas fir and western hemlock dominate this forest with rhododendron.
This 572-acre forested site on the Kitsap Peninsula became a natural area preserve in 1998. Mature and old growth douglas fir and western hemlock dominate this forest with rhododendron, evergreen huckleberry, and sword fern in the forest understory. This is one of the few extensive unlogged mature forests remaining in the central or southern Puget Trough ecoregion. The site also protects portions of Stavis Creek, which supports coho and chum salmon spawning grounds, a blue heron rookery, and nesting osprey. The ecological integrity of Kitsap Forest NAP is protected by the Stavis Natural Resources Conservation Area, which surrounds it.

Features Protected: Coho and chum salmon spawning grounds, blue heron rookery, nesting osprey

Ecoregion: Puget Trough (Kitsap County)

Science, Research and Monitoring

Public and private universities, other research institutions and individual researchers may contact DNR to propose a research project at the site. If you are interested in pursuing research at Kitsap Forest NAP, please contact David Wilderman, natural areas ecologist, at david.wilderman@dnr.wa.gov

Environmental Education and Public Access

Currently, no formal educational programs are available at Kitsap Forest NAP. The site is not ADA accessible and facilities are not available. For more information, contact the DNR South Puget Sound Region natural areas manager.