The Department of Natural Resources conserves over 163,000 acres of lands and features in designated natural area preserves and natural resource conservation areas, protecting the highest-quality examples of natural Washington. These areas provide opportunities for research, environmental education and low-impact recreation. Keyna Bugner will give an overview of the Natural Areas program in WA as well as discuss the natural features of some of the local natural areas. Learn more about the natural areas in the Columbia Basin area including ongoing research and restoration projects at these sites. Find out about opportunities available to help protect these areas for future generations.