Explore Our Lands

Samish River – Ochs

[48.59607,-122.2397]
  • Property Type: Trust-Owned
  • Date Added: 2009
  • East of Alger
  • 28 acres
  • Open to the Public

Samish River Ochs Conservation Area, near Alger, protects 28 acres of riparian forest land.

Conservation Story

Samish River – Ochs was donated to Skagit Land Trust in 2009, forever preserving these 28 acres as a Conservation Area vital to the Upper Samish watershed. The Samish river runs through the property with riparian forest on either side, providing habitat for a number of species. 

Site History and Ecology

A variety of wildlife can be seen in the river and riparian forest at Samish River Ochs. Eagles and other raptors are commonly seen here, and the river provides habitat for a number of salmonids such as Chinook, coho, sockeye, and steelhead. The riparian forest consists of osoberry, red alder, and black cottonwood while providing habitat for deer.

Stewardship goals for Samish River Ochs are to enhance and maintain the riparian forest for wildlife habitat, especially salmonids. Skagit Land Trust has been working to remove invasive species on the property with the help of volunteers. Invasive species found here include English holly, butterfly bush, and knotweed.

Access

This site is open to low-impact public use for community enjoyment and is accessed via Upper Samish Road.

How to Get There

Head east on Highway 20 Turn left (north) at WA-9/N Township Street. Turn left at Prairie Road. First right onto Upper Samish Road. Drive ahead, passing one narrow strip of trees on your right, until you hit a large section of wooded area on your right, which is Samish River (Ochs). Parking is pulling off along the road.

Property Photos

You might also like

Skagit Land Trust Helps Protect More Critical Skagit River Salmon Habitat

If you look at a map of the Skagit River east of Sedro-Woolley, you’ll see a large river wind its…

Read MoreSkagit Land Trust Helps Protect More Critical Skagit River Salmon Habitat

A Place for Wild Things – Expanding a Corridor of Conservation

This spring, Skagit Land Trust was gifted a 56-acre mosaic of forest, wetland, and open meadow near Sedro-Woolley. The land…

Read MoreA Place for Wild Things – Expanding a Corridor of Conservation

Skagit Land Trust Welcomes New Stewardship Director

Skagit Land Trust is delighted to introduce our new Stewardship Director, Loren Brokaw. Born and raised in Stanwood, Loren has fostered a lifelong…

Read MoreSkagit Land Trust Welcomes New Stewardship Director