2001 – Present
The Yakima Tributary Access & Habitat Program (YTAHP) is a shining example of conservation in action. Since its inception in 2001, this program has been dedicated to revitalizing crucial salmon habitats with the help of landowners.
YTAHP aims to restore salmonid passage, protect fish from diversion entrainment, and enhance riparian and instream habitat in Yakima River tributaries on private lands. Through the YTAHP Program, landownwers voluntarily collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including local, state, tribal, and federal entities. Together, the partners prioritize project development, implementation, and monitoring to maximize watershed benefits – and brings together people and nature for a common cause.
The WRCD is responsible for managing grants, accounting, and contracting with Kittitas Conservation District, North Yakima Conservation District, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to implement fish passage and habitat projects in the Yakima Basin. We work closely with BPA and other organizations to monitor progress, track, and report on investments and outcomes, and facilitate regular meetings to keep all stakeholders informed across three counties in the Yakima Basin.
Kittitas County Conservation District (KCCD)
North Yakima Conservation District (NYCD)
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)
Yakama Nation (YN)
Kittitas Conservation Trust (KCT)
Mid-Columbia Regional Fisheries Enhancement Group (MCF)
Benton Conservation District (BCT)
Since 2001, YTAHP has worked to develop, design, permit, and construct more than 227 projects in Yakima River tributaries. As of 2023, our accomplishments have been:
