The Asotin Creek unit is approximately 16,000 acres located in Asotin County, 16 miles southwest of the town of Asotin. This area includes portions of the North and South Forks of Asotin Creek, Charley Creek, and Lick Creek drainages. Acquisition of the original property in 1962 was sought to protect big game winter range and elk calving grounds; later purchases served to protect threatened salmonid species and their habitat. Asotin Creek is considered a critical watershed for steelhead, bull trout and spring Chinook salmon, and the State of Washington has designated the drainage a wild steelhead refuge. The watershed is considered at high risk for habitat degradation due to fragmentation and stream modifications. Major habitat types include grasslands and dry coniferous forests. Deer, elk, turkey, quail, chukar, grouse, and many other species afford a variety of hunting and wildlife viewing opportunities.