Wilcox Flats

Wilcox Flats comprises 150 acres of floodplain along a sweeping bend of the Nisqually River south of Wilcox Farms in Pierce County. In the 1960s, despite the presence of several old river side channels that strongly suggested the site's potential for serious flooding, the land was subdivided into more than 50 homesites. Subsequent flooding destroyed some homes and prevented others from being built. Consequently, this area has changed little over time and retains excellent ecological integrity, with high value as salmon habitat.

The Land Trust began purchasing some of these parcels in 1995 with proceeds from our annual auction. After a devastating flood in 1996, Pierce County acquired several damaged homes, and, following demolition, gave this acreage to the Land Trust. A Salmon Recovery Funding Board grant funded the purchase of 19 additional properties, and we now own virtually the entire Wilcox Flats area.

Restoration of the Flats began with the removal of tons of debris, a project funded by Pierce County Conservation Futures. Land Trust volunteers then planted 500 native trees, purchased through a Pierce County Community Salmon Fund grant. The Land Trust is now completing a wildlife inventory and drafting a long-term restoration and management plan for the Flats.

Volunteer to help restore Wilcox Flats
Donate now
Back to Land Trust Map