Contract will cover continuing work related to pre-acquisition of identified priority properties and interim management of farm/ranch properties already acquired, under terms of the BPA/YN/MSRF MOA.  The purpose is to allow project sponsors to complete pre-acquisitions of properties that could be purchased with non-federal funds in order to implement side channel and floodplain reconnection projects along the Methow Twisp, and Chewuch Rivers. BPA, MSRF and YN have agreed to use Accord project funds for pre-acquisition activities relative to new acquisitions being sought for priority restoration actions relating to the YN Upper Columbia Habitat Restoration Project, but that any future real property acquisition (fee title or conservation easement) will be made using non-federal funding.  

No new properties have been identified by YN for pre-acquisition activities involving MSRF and the YN Upper Columbia Habitat Restoration Project. The Amundson right bank parcels were acquired under the previous pre-acquisition contract.  

Acquisition opportunities may arise through landowner outreach and/or development of new projects through expanding Reach Assessments within the Methow Subbasin. New pre-acquisition efforts  involving MSRF and the YN Upper Columbia Habitat Restoration Project can be authorized and funded through modifications to this contract at the request of YN Upper Columbia Habitat Restoration Project representatives.

As to management of farm / ranch properties previously acquired, some of these properties were purchased with the intent to re-sell portion(s) which are active agricultural land, developed residential, or not otherwise to be in protected status. Activities to be completed during this "interim" period include preparation of, and updates to, management plans, negotiation of resale, operational lease(s), and general maintenance and operation of the facilities. Management plans were completed for both the Upper Beaver Creek property and the Old Schoolhouse (Beaver Creek) property under the previous contract. Agricultural activities on both properties are continuing under lease or license. New fence installations have been completed at both properties, to improve security and facilitate management and restoration. Additional fence is planned at OSH to exclude cattle from restored (2013) areas.

Under the terms of the adopted MOA (among BPA, YN, and MSRF), MSRF is to be granted a stewardship endowment for the long term management of such conservation easement(s). Expenditures associated with development of any new easement(s), stewardship agreement(s), and/or long term management plan(s) are anticipated to be reimbursed under this contract.  

There are currently two property groups in the Beaver Creek drainage in this status. It is envisioned that additional survey and boundary line adjustment work may be needed to create sellable and retained parcels that are consistent with the project objectives. MSRF will coordinate such survey / subdivision actions with BPA and YN as set forth under the MOA. In the event that subdivision is desired / approved prior to sale, additional expenditures may be necessary for fencing to improve livestock management.