Natural Areas
What is it?
Natural areas are undeveloped landscapes that provide habitat for wildlife and support biodiversity. These areas include shrub-steppe, wetlands, grasslands, forests, and other preserved lands that help filter air and water, reduce urban heat, and offer recreational and educational opportunities. Protecting and maintaining natural areas ensures long-term environmental health, enhances climate resilience, and provides recreation for people.
Who’s working on it in the Tri-Cities
- Tapteal Greenway – Promoting conservation, education and recreation along the lower Yakima River.
- Chamna Natural Preserve – Chamna Natural Preserve is a 276-acre park hidden in central Richland along the Yakima River. Despite its relatively small size, Chamna has an extensive trail network, with more than 11 miles of named trails maintained by the Tapteal Greenway for hiker, biker, and equestrian use.
- Zintel Canyon Park – This park is located on 68 acres. The north trailhead park includes a playground and picnic facilities. The walking trail is 1.3 miles through natural area.