Wind River Experimental Forest, Forest research facility in Skamania County, United States
Wind River Experimental Forest is a forest research facility in Skamania County, Washington, with extensive stands of Douglas fir and western hemlock trees. The site contains residential and laboratory buildings where scientists conduct long-term studies on forest ecosystems and growth patterns.
The facility was established in 1932, building on research by Thornton T. Munger who started a tree nursery and growth studies in 1909. These early experiments set the foundation for the long-term forest research that continues at this location today.
Scientists use this forest laboratory to study forest management practices, tree growth patterns, and how ecosystems respond to environmental changes in the Pacific Northwest.
The site offers lodging in residential buildings and a bunkhouse, but visitor access is limited since it remains an active research facility. Plan ahead if you want to visit and check with local authorities about access restrictions and possible guided tours.
From 1994 to 2011, researchers used a 75-meter crane system to directly observe the forest canopy and collect data from upper forest layers. This innovative equipment provided unprecedented insights into forest habitat dynamics that are normally difficult to access.
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