This project presents an opportunity to showcase preservation of a diverse wildlife habitat area located immediately adjacent to the Port Angeles Urban Growth Area. The 140 acre acquisition extends protection of Morse Creek, its riparian zone, & significant associated habitats for 1/2 mile within the lower two miles of Morse Creek. The principal acquisition is the last large undeveloped property in close proximity to Port Angeles and comprises a 2,500' section of Morse Creek, & the land on both sides of the creek extending from the valley floor to the top of the side slopes. The land is primarily mixed conifer and deciduous forest with meadows and extensive ponds and wetlands & a large open meadow habitat adjacent to some wetland habitats. The creek is utilized by coho, steelhead and reintroduced chinook and the target property contains 25% of the steelhead spawning habitat on the entire creek. Harlequin duck nesting density for the entire Olympic Peninsula is highest in this area including 1/2 mile downstream from the target property. There are nesting wood ducks on some of the old side channel ponds on the property. The creek habitat is open enough for eagles to forage for fish. There is an eight acre meadow adjacent to wetlands that hold waterfowl such as mallards, that draw in hunting activity by peregrine falcons. The forest habitat is occupied by pileated woodpeckers. The property has portions that could lend itself well to futurebarrier-free recreational opportunities.