Located on a sand island in Willapa Bay, this 152 acre preserve protects nesting seabird colonies, including the rare snowy plover. It is a historic nest site for caspian terns. This large sandy accretion changes shape on a regular basis, and dune vegetation and seabirds re-colonize the shifting habitat.  The island is also a haul-out location and pupping site for harbor seals.

 

Features Protected: Snowy plover
Ecoregion: Northwest Coast (Pacific County)

Public and private universities, other research institutions and individual researchers may contact DNR to propose a research project at the site. If you are interested in pursuing research at Gunpowder Island NAP, please contact David Wilderman, natural areas ecologist, at david.wilderman@dnr.wa.gov.  

Currently no formal educational programs are available at Gunpowder Island NAP. The site is not ADA accessible and facilities are not available. For more information, contact the DNR Pacific Cascade Region natural areas manager.