OLYMPIA – For the second year, the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Friends of Lake Kapowsin will host Lake Kapowsin Day to celebrate one of Washington’s most unique bodies of water.
The day will feature boats on display and on the water, fishing demonstrations and experts to discuss the geology, native plants and natural features of the state’s only freshwater Aquatic Reserve. Local history experts will also be on hand to talk about the historic boomtown that previously existed on its shores.
A Mount Rainier Creation
Lake Kapowsin formed when the Electron Mudflow surged down Mount Rainier and dammed Kapowsin Creek some 500 years ago. The dammed lake submerged a cedar forest that now provides prime habitat for warmwater fish, amphibians and migratory waterfowl. The lake covers 512 acres and has predominately-natural shorelines and shallow waters.
It is because of this unique habitat that DNR designated Lake Kapowsin as its eighth Aquatic Reserve. This designation aims to ensure the many people who enjoy fishing and hunting on Lake Kapowsin can continue to do so, while also providing research opportunities for geologists and aquatic biologists. Lake Kapowsin is one of the few lakes in western Washington that supports bass fishing and is open for waterfowl hunting.

What: Lake Kapowsin Day

Who: DNR, Friends of Lake Kapowsin, WA Dept. of Fish and Wildlife, Sportsman’s Warehouse, Western Bass Club, Native Plant Society, Puyallup Tribe, Pierce Conservation District, Washington Rock

When: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Saturday, June 8, 2019

Where: Lake Kapowsin Boat Launch
29517 Orville Rd E, Orting, WA 98360

CONTACT Birdie Davenport, Aquatic Reserves Program Manager
360-902-1073 roberta.davenport@dnr.wa.gov