The Wells Wildlife Area in Okanogan and Douglas counties includes approximately 11,100 acres managed throughout its units. The department acquired the wildlife area from the Douglas County Public Utilities District No. 1 in a 1974 wildlife mitigation agreement as part of the Wells Hydroelectric Project. The department also acquired lease rights to 1,550 acres of Department of Natural Resources land, and the Bureau of Land Management allowed 180 acres in the Indian Dan Canyon Unit to be included.
Initially, the primary goal for the Wells Wildlife Area was to enhance and manage upland game habitat and recreation, but the goal has since broadened to include more biodiversity management. Due to low precipitation and soil types, the predominant upland habitat type on the Wells Wildlife Area is shrubsteppe. Riparian vegetation is found along creek bottoms, lakes, and springs. By actively managing lands, restoring habitats, and preserving wild places, the department serves as stewards for Washington's natural places, protecting the state's land and water for its human and wildlife populations.
Wildlife area units
Management planning
2006 Wells 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.