Restoring sagebrush habitat: a collaborative effort for wildlife recovery in North Central Washington
Wildfires are an ever-present threat in the arid landscapes of North Central Washington, leaving behind scarred ecosystems that take years — or decades — to recover. Sagebrush, a critical component of these habitats, is often lost in these fires, impacting wildlife species that depend on the shrubbsteppe ecosystem. Shrubbsteppe is typically found in semi-arid regions and is characterized by shrubs and grasslands. This fall, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) Private Lands Section of the Landowner Services Division teamed up with partners and landowners to take a major step toward recovery with two significant sagebrush restoration projects.
Replanting sagebrush in Douglas and Grant Counties
The first project, located on Jacobsen Farms in Douglas County, focused on land burned in the Road 11 wildfires of 2020 and 2024. Using tree and shrub planting machines, the Private Lands Team planted 7,500 big sagebrush plugs across 187 acres in just two days. This project was made possible by a wildfire grant from Pheasants Forever, which provided funding for plant materials. Jacobsen Farms has been a vital partner in habitat restoration, participating in the WDFW Hunter Access Program for over 30 years and offering opportunities for sportsmen in the region to hunt on private property.
The second project, on the Lancaster property in Grant County, targeted land damaged in the Sutherland Canyon wildfire of 2017. With the aim of increasing sagebrush density, the team planted 2,000 sagebrush plugs across 139 acres using augers and planting bars. Early rains following the planting have provided an encouraging start for the young plants.
Why sagebrush matters
Sagebrush is a cornerstone of the shrubbsteppe ecosystem, providing shelter and food for a variety of species, including sage grouse and endangered pygmy rabbits. These plants are not just important for wildlife — they also serve as a seed source to regenerate native habitats over time. The reintroduction of 9,500 sagebrush plugs across the two sites will help restore these critical ecosystem components, benefiting wildlife and future generations of land stewards.
Collaboration for success
Restoration projects like these depend on strong partnerships. WDFW Private Lands biologists worked closely with landowners and agencies such as the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) to plan and execute these efforts. Pheasants Forever’s $18,000 wildfire grant provided the resources to purchase plant materials, while private landowners contributed their time, land, and dedication to the cause.
Private Lands Biologist Eric Braaten, who has spent over 30 years fostering relationships with landowners in Douglas County, highlighted the value of these collaborations.
“These projects showcase how private landowners play a critical role in habitat restoration,” Braaten said. “When we work together, we can achieve incredible results for both wildlife and people.”
Looking ahead
With both project sites now planted, the focus shifts to ensuring the sagebrush establishes successfully. Early rainfall has provided a promising start, but continued monitoring and stewardship will be key to the plants’ long-term survival.
As wildfires become more frequent, partnerships like these remain essential for restoring and protecting Washington’s shrubbsteppe ecosystems. Through the dedication of WDFW’s Private Lands Program, partners, and landowners, these restoration projects serve as a beacon of hope for wildlife recovery.
Learn more about WDFW’s restoration work and opportunities to partner on habitat restoration projects.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.
