“Thurston and Mason counties parks and conservation projects would receive millions of dollars in state grants under a ranking put out by the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office today [Sep. 26.].

In the 2009 legislative session, the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition will work to sustain the $100 million to fund as many of the projects as possible.

Thurston County projects that would receive funding include:

Woodard Bay NRCA, almost $1.3 million: Additional acreage, including shoreline, will enhance riparian habitat in a rapidly developing residential area.

Black River Ranch, almost $1.2 million: Protects a 725-acre dairy farm containing wetlands, floodplain, riparian and upland habitat.

Black River Conservation Initiative, $920,180: Protects 330 acres of riparian and 70 acres of associated upland habitat.

Ward Lake Acquisition, $750,000, Olympia: 9 acres for public swimming beach.

South Sound Prairie and Grassland Bald Hill Restoration, $270,380: Restores south Puget Sound grasslands threatened by invasive plant species.

Tenino City Park Expansion, $57,500: 6.27 acres of land provides a trail corridor, wildlife habitat, birdwatching and environmental education,” quoting The Olympian.