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The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) manages 47 Natural Area Preserves protecting approximately 28,000 acres of Washington's native habitats, from coastal estuaries to freshwater wetlands and arid shrub-steppe. All were acquired through gifts, purchase from willing sellers, or transfer of appropriate state lands. NAP's are managed for the conservation of our highest quality natural communities, with particular emphasis on those plants and animals considered rare or threatened in Washington.The Washington State Legislature created the Natural Area Preserve (NAP) system in 1972 [RCW 79.70.010]. Lands suitable for inclusion in the NAP system are identified by the Washington Natural Heritage Program and reviewed by the Natural Heritage Advisory Council. |