The Nature Conservancy in Washington - Preserve Visitation Guidelines

Preserve Visitation Guidelines

The Nature Conservancy's preserves are private properties, managed to protect native species and ecosystems. While on our preserves, please respect the land and wildlife at all times. Also respect the rights of owners of adjacent private properties.

Engage only in low-impact activities: walking, bird watching, nature study and photography.

Please obtain written approval from the Conservancy before conducting any group field trips, educational programs or research activities on a preserve.

You can show respect for the preserves by limiting the size of your group, parking in designated areas and walking only on established trails. Upon encountering wildlife, take special care: do not pursue animals, nor approach too close and harass them.

When visiting, please come prepared.

The preserves have no rest rooms or drinking water. Wear comfortable footwear suitable for hiking -- no heavy, cleated boots, please. Pack rain gear, sun screen and insect repellent for protection. For a longer hike, bring a map, compass, first aid kit and a full water bottle. Of course, remember to bring your camera, binoculars and a regional nature guide. Above all, take your time and enjoy nature's gifts!

Please observe the following restrictions on Conservancy preserves in Washington:

No hunting or trapping
No collecting plants, animals, or their remains
No camping
No smoking
No horses
No bicycles or other off-road vehicles
No pets (with the exception of seeing-eye dogs)
Preserves are open dawn to dusk only (with the exception of Yellow Island, which is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)