Steptoe Butte habitat proposal receives variety of comments

Will DeMarco, Gazette Reporter | Jun 21, 20180

National%20Heritage%20Conservation%20Manager%20John%20Gamon

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National Heritage Conservation Manager John Gamon outlines a proposal for the purchase of Steptoe Butte State Park to local residents at a public hearing in Colfax on June 14.

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The future of the Steptoe Butte State Park was discussed at a public hearing in Colfax on Thursday, June 14.

Kent Bassett, his late wife, Elaine, and Joan and Ray Folwell of Pullman bought the land north of Colfax, which encompasses more than 400 acres, about two years ago for $638,000 with hopes to preserve the area. The area is one of the last remnants of Palouse prairie, houses multiple rare species of plants and animals and is designated as a National Natural Landmark.

Washington's Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is considering purchasing the land to be used as a Natural Resource Are...