Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area

Tide SW Foundation has provided interim funding for Forterra’s acquisition of property adjoining the Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area in Ocean Shores, WA.   The property comprises 18.7 acres of undeveloped land with native wetland vegetation adjacent to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) Oyhut Wildlife Recreation Area. This project protects intact wetlands which support intertidal species, especially salmon as they move through estuaries and pause to acclimate, forage, and rest. Ultimately, all salmonids in the basin pass through the mouth of Grays Harbor. This property buffers the Oyhut Wildlife Area from existing development. The Oyhut Wildlife Area is a significant stopover for migratory birds and waterfowl in the Pacific Flyway. It is one of only four nesting sites in the state for Western snowy plover, a state endangered and federally threatened species. Protecting this property will prevent future construction of encroaching residential units.