This unit has limited access due to no available parking.
The Morse Creek Unit was purchased to protect important wildlife habitat in a rapidly urbanizing area and for restoration of the riverine system, including salmon habitat. Habitat types on this unit include deciduous dominant riparian forest, marsh wetland, forested wetland, and mixed shrub. This unit is adjacent to the Olympic Discovery trail.
The Morse Creek Unit is located 3 miles east of Port Angeles.
The Morse Creek Unit is located in the Dungeness-Elwha basin. Adjacent properties include private residential and commercial lands.
This unit is part of the North Olympic Wildlife Area.
Game Management Units: 621, 624
Recreation and public access
A Discover Pass is required on WDFW lands -- including water access areas, wildlife areas, and campgrounds -- unless you already have a Vehicle Access Pass issued with the purchase of an eligible hunting or fishing license. Recreate responsibly on public lands: please know the Public Conduct Rules.
Public facility information:
- No developed parking area
- No restroom
Recreation and access advisories
- Overnight parking and camping are prohibited
- No motorized vehicles
- Open fires are prohibited
- No bicycles
- Collection of plant materials is prohibited
- No fireworks
- Please do not block gates
Wildlife viewing
This unit includes deciduous riparian forest, marsh and forested wetlands, and mixed shrub, offering opportunities to view a variety of wildlife.
Search for potential birding opportunities on or near a wildlife area unit by using eBird Northwest, a citizen science database portal that provides freely-shared bird lists at 'hotspots' and interactive maps plus other birding information updated daily.
Other recreational opportunities
This unit is adjacent to the Olympic Discovery Trail, that is non-motorized and offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.
Conservation
Habitat types on this unit include deciduous dominant riparian forest, marsh wetland, forested wetland, and mixed shrub.
Special habitats and species
Many species benefit from these habitats, plus riparian/stream restoration efforts are aimed to help salmon.
Conservation goals
- Restore riverine habitat for salmon
- Retain diversity of wildlife habitats on the landscape
- Protect wildlife habitat adjacent to urban settings
Many species benefit from these habitats, plus riparian/stream restoration efforts are aimed to help salmon.
- Restore riverine habitat for salmon
- Retain diversity of wildlife habitats on the landscape
- Protect wildlife habitat adjacent to urban settings
Land stewardship
The Morse Creek Unit was purchased to protect important wildlife habitat in a rapidly urbanizing area and for restoration of the riverine system, including salmon habitat.
Acquisition history
The parcels making up this area were purchased between 2001 and 2003.
| Funder | Fund |
|---|---|
| WA Recreation and Conservation Office | Salmon Recovery Fund |
| WA Recreation and Conservation Office | Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program |
Management planning
2010 North Olympic Wildlife Area Management Plan
Every eight to 10 years, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) revises management plans for each of its 33 wildlife areas to document current conditions, address new agency initiatives, and identify new management priorities and actions. In between those major revisions, WDFW updates plans every two years to outline short-term objectives and accomplishments. In 2014, WDFW began the process of updating existing plans, many of which were written in 2006. The new plans are being developed with significant public participation and input.