Conserving the habitat and related ecological processes that sustain the extraordinary biological diversity of the Methow Watershed is the overall goal of this ongoing project. The current emphasis is to secure the most critical habitats under-represented in the protected land base, and to link these parcels to existing agency holdings. Targeted parcels will emphasize shrub-steppe and riparian habitats, protecting 1330 acres (2660 total in partnership with USFWS), including almost 5 miles of critical stream frontage. Acquisitions will benefit over 40 priority habitats and species, including sharp-tail grouse, spring Chinook, steelhead, bull trout, and rare carnivores. In addition to protecting key habitats, targeted parcels are strategically located to connect existing conservation lands, link critical riparian components to protected uplands, and maintain important wildlife movement corridors. This project directly addresses the objectives of many regional planning efforts including WDFW's Strategic Plan, Okanogan Ecoregional Assessment, Methow Subbasin plan, and several salmon recovery documents. No other major inhabited watershed in the state offers similar opportunity for such comprehensive protection of fish and wildlife resources and associated recreation. This is WDFW's most successful WWRP acquisition project to date, and continued support is vital to it's completion, insuring the finished product will be a showcase for the compatibility of sustainable development and resource conservation.