It’s time for a Bit-O-Learnin’ in the woods, so let’s get out there!
Who: NE WFFA and Spokane chapter members are sponsored, no RSVP necessary.
Bring your friends. Doggy friends must be on a leash at all times per WDFW.
Where: Rustlers Gulch Wildlife Area (WDFW) in Pend Oreille County. See map (attached) and driving directions below.
Link:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/places-to-go/wildlife-areas/rustlers-gulch-wildlife-area-unit
When: July 26th, 2025. From 09:00 to 1:00 pm or so. YES..that's in 1 week!!! (sorry for the late details).
What: Improving wildlife habitat using prescribed fire. Shrub and plant identification. Visiting amongst the pines.
The Wildlife Refuge area is actively managed by WDFW to enhance wildlife habitat, using logging and prescribed fire. Fire creates snags, invigorates shrub and grass growth and reduces the fuel levels on the forest floor.
Things: Bring your camp chair & lunch. WFFA will bring water. Wear woods-appropriate clothes and shoes. Bring binos, if you want to bird watch.
Entrance to refuge: The Last Chance Access point is on the east side of the refuge, entering from Hwy 2 (aka Newport Hwy), between Spokane and Newport. East of Deer Park and North of Eloika Lake.
Distances: From the stop light at the intersection of Deer Park-Milan road and Hwy 2 (by The Ram Drive-in), drive 7.3 miles north on Hwy 2. Turn left* on Fertile Valley Road (same turn as the west access to Sacheen Lake). Drive 2.4 miles to Last Chance Road, turn left on to LCR (dusty & unpaved). Drive 1 mile to an open area that serves as parking. Field Day/Forestry Tour signs will be at Fertile Valley and Last Chance roads.
*Hwy 2 is a divided highway, with 2 lanes northbound and 2 lanes southbound. When you see the sign for westside access to Sacheen Lake, be sure to get into LEFT LANE to access the turn lane for Fertile Valley Road.
If coming from the north, Hwy 211 connects into Hwy 2 north of Fertile Valley road. At FVR, turn right and follow the remaining directions.
Got Qs??? Email:
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See you out in the woods!
