The scope of this project is to acquire three parcels totaling 50 acres along the Middle Fork Snoqualmie River. The three parcels are private inholdings within 205 acres of county land managed as a natural area. The natural area provides protection along 7750 feet of the Middle Fork. The proposed acquisition would add another 1000 feet of river frontage. The Middle Fork Natural Area provides high quality riparian habitat that is used extensively by elk, black bear, and cougar. The Natural Area also lies within the WA DNR lands managed for spotted owl habitat in the State's Spotted Owl Habitat Conservation Plan. The Middle Fork Snoqualmie River is an increasingly popular wilderness recreation destination for many Seattle metropolitan area residents. Extensive USFS and State ownership provides numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, and other wilderness activities. The Middle Fork Natural Area lies in the center of that public ownership mosaic and offers opportunities for low-impact day use. A simple kayak launch was recently installed. The Middle Fork River Corridor Public Use planning effort recommends adding a day hike trail from the Middle Fork road to the eastern extent of the Natural Area. Acquiring the large inholdings within the natural area is a critical step to insure long term integrity of the habitat and the development of a trail for day users.