Why it is a Conservation Priority
Located approximately 10 miles west of the town of Arco and just east of Craters of the Moon National Monument lies the Wood River Land Trust’s most recent acquisition, Timbered Dome Ranch. Sagebrush and grasses are the predominant vegetation on the 1,609-acre property except at the summit of Timbered Dome where various species of pine grow - hence the property’s name. The ranch is bordered by BLM and private lands and is a critical migratory corridor for elk, deer and antelope and recently had a wintering herd of approximately 250 elk and 500 mule deer.
Timbered Dome provides year-round habitat for elk, chukar, raptors, pygmy rabbit, mule deer, and migratory songbirds. Most important are the resident Sage Grouse and their leks on and near the property which need added protection.
The sage grouse is currently classified in Idaho as a species that warrants endangered species status and its habitat and population status are being reviewed annually by the US Fish and Wildlife Service. Timbered Dome offers ideal sage grouse habitat and has active sage grouse leks on and near the property which needed protection.
The Pygmy rabbit is highly vulnerable to a loss in sagebrush-steppe habitat and Timbered Dome offers ideal habitat for its population of pygmy rabbits which are classified as a candidate for endangered species protection. Pygmy rabbits need soil suited for burrow excavation, as well as, healthy sage brush for nutrition and concealment from predators.
What To Do And See:
Please check back later, as we are currently determining a management strategy for this property.
Visiting Timbered Dome Preserve:
Please check back later, as we are currently determining a management strategy for this property.
Restoration & Education Goals:
Working with the neighboring landowners and through our continued partnership with the Pioneer Alliance the Wood River Land Trust hopes to leverage our ownership of this property into even greater area wide agricultural and wildlife habitat conservation.
Timbered Dome Preserve Media Links:
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