Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Located in Marion County, Oregon, the Kelley Wetlands Wildlife Management Area encompasses roughly 684 acres of ecologically rich wetland and riparian habitats. This area is part of the larger Willamette Valley, known historically for its extensive marshlands that have largely been converted to agricultural use. Kelley Wetlands preserves one of the last remaining natural wetland complexes in the region, playing a crucial role in waterfowl conservation, amphibian breeding, and plant diversity. The wetlands are managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and feature an array of aquatic plants, sedges, and emergent vegetation that sustain a variety of avian species, including migratory ducks, herons, and shorebirds. Visitors to the area can experience tranquil walks along dirt trails and boardwalks that weave through the marsh, offering excellent birdwatching and photography opportunities. Though limited in developed recreational infrastructure, Kelley Wetlands is especially prized for quiet observation, educational field trips, and scientific research. Its location just south of Salem provides an accessible natural oasis close to urban centers. Conservation efforts here focus on maintaining hydrological functions, controlling invasive species, and restoring native plant communities to support threatened and endangered species indigenous to Oregon's wetland ecosystems.
