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Wildlife Areas: Chiliwist
Past and Present |
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Identified as a critical wintering area for mule deer, the lands that now make up the Chiliwist Wildlife Area (CWA), approximately 4,889 acres, were purchased in 1977. The fact that Sharp-tailed grouse were in the area when CWA was purchased was also noted. Historically, the lands of the CWA and surrounding area consisted of rangelands with some farming. The CWA was managed as a unit of the Methow Wildlife Area from the time of its purchase until 2003, at which time management responsibility was moved to the Sinlahekin Wildlife Area. Historically, much of the CWA has been used as rangeland for livestock grazing with some dryland and irrigated farming. With changing philosophies the grazing continues to be a contentious issue. However, managed grazing has been demonstrated to be a useful tool for vegetation manipulation. The CWA is still managed under a grazing permit and sharecropping agreement as it has been since its purchase. There are about 80 acres of irrigated alfalfa and 80 acres of dryland farming. The Chiliwist provides many deer hunting opportunities. Additionally it is noted as being a very productive Mourning Dove hunting site in early September. Other hunting opportunities include Forest grouse hunting for Blue and Ruffed grouse, California Quail, and Wild Turkey. The CWA was the first successful Wild Turkey release site in Okanogan County, with the population increasing rapidly after the 1988 release. Weeds, in particular Dalmatian Toadflax, Baby’s breath, Scotch Thistle, and Russian and Diffuse knapweed, have been and will continue to be a challenge that requires persistence and dedication to keep them under control. However, biocontrol of Diffuse knapweed seems to be relatively successful, with hopes of more biocontrol agents becoming available for the other weeds. |
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