This grant enabled MSRF to acquire a Conservation Easement (CE) (held by Methow Conservancy) on 17.10+/- acres of priority floodplain and wetlands within identified high quality habitat along the Methow River. This property is part of the Middle Methow (M2) reach-based restoration effort led by MSRF and the Bureau of Reclamation for the BPA Targeted Solicitation. This CE allowed active restoration of this property necessary to reconnect the isolated floodplain wetland with overbank flows during annual spring flows. This project provides long-term protection for the investment in habitat improvement and builds directly upon the actions implemented in 2013 as part of the larger BPA-funded project. The property is immediately adjacent to protected properties owned by WDFW and has a direct surface water connection to the Methow River that will be enhanced by implemented habitat actions. This CE protects habitat to benefit ESA-listed salmonids, including spring Chinook and steelhead. The Methow River is a Category 2 watershed, where habitat protection actions are a Tier 1 priority. The Upper Columbia Biological Strategy designates the Middle Methow as a Priority (Cat. 2) watershed for protection actions, and specifically recommends actions that protect water quality and habitat diversity by protecting side channels, and off-channel habitat (RTT 2008). This CE protects water quality and habitat diversity and will ensure protection of the area from future development or other disallowed activities that would degrade the improved habitat.