Okanogan County seeks to protect Nelson Ranch’s 1,026 acres of working rangeland through acquisition of a permanent agricultural easement. Development pressures in the Okanogan Highlands have mounted in recent years with increased purchases of large acreages converted into 20-acre homesites. This easement will prevent any future subdivision on this land, limit residential development, and keep valuable rangeland intact for future agricultural use. Five generations have worked this ranch for 108 years. Of the original working ranches in the immediate area, only this one remains and contributes significantly to the agricultural economy of Okanogan County. Ranching operations include grazing leases on more than 50,000 acres of land including 5,400 acres of private land that contributes open space and continued use of land for agriculture. The ranch has high biological and historical value. Nearly 80% of Muskrat Lake is on the property and there are several springs that create outstanding habitat for migratory birds and waterfowl. More than 90% of the soils are classified as soils of statewide importance. Historic farm buildings on the property offer a glimpse of early settlement. Nelson Ranch is in the heart of the Okanogan Highlands and has scenic vistas visible from two county roads. Protection of Nelson Ranch will be the first example of preservation of large working lands in the Okanogan Highlands and will ensure family succession and continued cattle ranching operations.