This proposal is for the acquisition of high quality, riparian and floodplain habitat and associated water rights on a key reach of the Yakima River. The "Yakima City" reach was identified by Dr. Stanford, Director of the University of Montana's Flathead Biological Station, as essential to salmonid survival in the Yakima Basin due to the presence of extensive groundwater upwelling zones. The reach contains extensive floodplain habitat and critical rearing and over-wintering sites for juvenile salmon, many of which are federally or state listed. Loss of floodplain habitat since the late 19th century has been a major factor limiting survival of juvenile fish in the Yakima River. Specific objectives are to 1) permanently protect existing high quality, riparian habitat on a key reach of the Yakima River, and to 2) enhance instream flows for the benefit of anadromous salmon and steelhead. In cooperation with the Bureau of Reclamation and Yakama Nation Fisheries, The Nature Conservancy prioritized several tracts for acquisition of 575 acres just south of Yakima. Properties acquired with WRFB funds will be managed by The Conservancy in accordance with the Bureau's Basin Conservation Plan. This project will provide immediate and permanent protection of important habitat, and opportunities for future restoration efforts. This project has the support of the Department of Fish and Wildlife.