Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in south-central Washington, the Potholes Reservoir Wildlife Area is a 22,000-acre protected region adjacent to the expansive Potholes Reservoir. Created by the O'Sullivan Dam on Crab Creek, this area features a unique blend of wetlands, shrub-steppe, and open water habitats that support over 200 species of birds and numerous fish species. The landscape is shaped by the reservoir’s irregular shoreline, creating 'potholes'—small ponds and wetlands—that provide critical breeding and feeding grounds especially for waterfowl and shorebirds. Historically, this area has been important to Native American communities and later for irrigation and water management projects initiated under the Columbia Basin Project. Today, it is managed for both wildlife conservation and public recreation. Visitors can engage in fishing for bass, crappie, kokanee, and walleye, which thrive in the reservoir’s waters. Hunting is permitted in designated seasons, primarily for waterfowl and upland game birds. Kayaking, canoeing, and birdwatching are popular activities due to the area's diverse avian population, including species such as sandhill cranes, white pelicans, and various migratory ducks. Several developed boat launches and access points facilitate water activities, while dirt roads and trails provide wildlife viewing and photography opportunities. The Potholes Reservoir Wildlife Area stands out for its combination of productive fisheries, scenic calm waters for paddlers, and excellent habitat for migratory and resident wildlife, making it a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and naturalists.
