Yakima Training Center Suspends Recreational Activities on Installation

Yakima Training Center will suspend all recreational activities, including hunting, beginning June 1 due to an anticipated surge in military training and a decline in law enforcement staff. The archery range and juvenile fishing pond will remain operational during this period. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has removed Game Management Unit 371 from its special hunt permit options for the season. A hiring freeze for federal civilian employees has hindered the recruitment of new police and security personnel, complicating efforts to fill vacancies. The YTC Police Department processed 1,283 hunter check-ins in the first quarter of fiscal year 2025, averaging 10 minutes each.

With fewer officers available, the center prioritizes staffing to support its main mission of military training. The decision does not affect Native American treaty rights or access to the Palouse to Cascades State Park Trail. YTC plans to work closely with community partners to restore recreational access as soon as possible.