Watch elk graze
Published: Monday, May 5th, 2008
Elk — these quiet, mighty giants are a must see, and it is easy to find them. Reedsport’s famous herd of Roosevelt elk graze just off state highway 38 in a marshy pasture at the foothills leading into Elliott State Forest. The elk roam freely on 1,040 acres of protected timber and pastureland. An accessible viewing area allows visitors to park and step nearer, for observation and photographs. The elk share their home with other wildlife including Canada geese and osprey, blue heron, bald eagles and other waterfowl. Land dwellers that are often spotted in the area are beaver, nutria, muskrats, blacktail deer and an occasional black bear. The Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area, on state Highway 38 just out of Reedsport, is managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management. Although the elk roam freely on the property, a fence keeps them separated from the highway. Catching sight of the elk is easy at the elk viewing area, which offers a panoramic view. A parking area is accessible to large RVs. Interpretive displays offer visitors insight about the inhabitants’ habits and behavior. For info: BLM: (541) 756-0100;
http://www.co.douglas.or.us/countyinfo/elk.html
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