Eschbach Park to Become Nature Haven

Yakima County officials recently announced their intentions to turn Eschbach Park into a nature preserve.  The 50-acre park, located five miles west of Yakima near the Naches River, features a two-acre pond with a free-flowing stream.  The county is working with Washington State’s Recreation and Conservation Office to remove the current levy separating the park from the Naches River.  In its place a smaller levy will be constructed that allows the river to recapture some of its traditional flood plain, create fish habitat, and provide new recreational access to the river for swimming and fishing.  Also planned are nature trails and interpretive sites.

Locals have enjoyed this park since 1920.  Turning it into a nature reserve will nicely coincide with the region’s aim to preserve lands for habitat to grow and thrive.  According to Mike Leita, Yakima County Commissioner, “We are excited about the prospect of returning Eschbach Park to a more natural state.  The project will help preserve a key river corridor and enhance the park’s recreational potential for residents and visitors.”

Attributed in part to the Yakima Herald-Republic