the nwfp was originally drafted with the intent of protecting critical habitat for the northern spotted owl, though the plan came to include much broader habitat protection goals. the plan is still in effect today and is intended to last for 100 years. declining northern spotted owl populations led to the plans implementation. the owl's main source of habitat is old growth forests which have become scarce the last few decades. not only has over-harvesting of old growth forests led to declining northern spotted owl populations, but also competition from the barred owl. an invasive species originally native to the eastern region of north america.