Land Bank Preserves and Easements
Choose an island to see the properties:
Coho Preserve
Mount Grant Preserve
Upright Head Preserve
Fisherman Bay Preserves - Weeks Wetland
Fisherman Bay Preserves - The Spit
Fisherman Bay Preserves - The Tombolo
Watmough Bay Preserve
Lopez Hill
Beaverton Marsh Preserve
Cady Mountain Preserve
Deadman Bay Preserve
Frazer Homestead Preserve
False Bay Creek Preserve
Edwards Point/Larry Pentz
Westside Scenic Preserve
Lower Cattle Point Road/Anderson Property
Limekiln Preserve and Westside Lake
King Sisters Preserve
Mount Ben Preserve
Alderman Preserve
Third Lagoon Preserve
Roark House Historic Preservation and Conservation Easement
Trout Lake Watershed
Wade Sundstrom Farm
Turtleback Mountain Preserve
Fowler’s Pond Preserve
Stonebridge-Terrill Preserve
Eastsound Waterfront Park
Coffelt Farm Preserve
Entrance Mountain Preserve
President Channel Preserve
Orcas Artworks Historic Preservation and Conservation Easement
Hummel Lake Preserve
Crescent Beach Preserve
Deer Harbor Waterfront Preserve
Schaefer Stretch Conservation Easement
Judd Cove Preserve
Lower Argyle Historic Lots
Olga Community Club Park
Orcas Tidelands
Diamond Hill Preserve
Hunt Conservation Easement
Stonecrest Farm Conservation Easement
Crowley Preserve Conservation Easement
Oak Knoll Farm Conservation Easement
Tharald Homestead Historic Preservation Easement
Cattle Point Road/Heritage Farm Conservation Easement
Buck Bay West Conservation Easement
Beaverton Marsh Conservation Easements
Clapp Conservation Easement
Cattle Point Road/Howard Farm Conservation Easement
Mulno Cove Farm Conservation Easement
Cattle Point Road Trail Easements
San Juan Historical Society Historic Preservation and Conservation Easement
Cole Conservation Easement
Warm Valley Farm Conservation Easement
Cattle Point Road/Portland Fair Conservation Easement
Twigg-Smith Conservation Easement
Kjargaard Farm Conservation Easement
Harris-Pressenda Conservation Easement
Johnson Conservation Easement
Point Disney Preserve
Pole Pass Conservation Easement
Mosquito Pass Preserve
Waldron Community Land Trust
Strachan Conservation Easement
Gudgell Conservation Easement
Trumble and Gibbs Conservation Easement
Golithon Preserve Conservation Easement
Hogback Mountain Conservation Easement
Plum Tree Farm Conservation Easement
Bluebell Springs Conservation Easement
Lee Conservation Easement
Connor Conservation Easement
Helwig Conservation Easement
Stonebridge Farm Conservation Easement
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Coho Preserve
Orcas Island
Accessible to the public
Coho Preserve is a small yet exceptional natural area which was acquired through a grant from the Salmon Recovery Funding Board. Surrounded by towering forest, this magical 24 acre preserve is home to multiple songbirds, raptors, salmon and trout. This rich variety of habitat along Cascade Creek can be relished while hiking the rustic trail loop through the preserve.
Photo Credit: Kurt Thorson
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Mount Grant Preserve
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
Located between Mount Dallas and Cady Mountain on San Juan Island, Mount Grant Preserve protects and provides access to 141 acres of native forest and meadow. Visitors to the ridgetop summit are rewarded with sweeping vistas in all directions. A road leading to the summit is open daily for pedestrian and non-motorized use.
Spring 2017 Update: The San Juan Preservation Trust successfully completed their fundraising campaign and the Land Bank is currently in the process of creating a management plan for the property, which will include future trails, driving access, and other activities.
Summer 2017 driving access will be available between 10am and 7pm every Sunday, Mother's Day (May 13) through Labor Day Weekend (September 3).
Photo credit: Tim Dustrude
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Upright Head Preserve
Lopez Island
Accessible to the public
Upright Head is the northernmost point on Lopez Island and is an important landmark recognized by many who travel the state ferry system. This 26-acre property includes 2,023 feet of medium and high-bank waterfront on Upright Channel. It lies adjacent to the Lopez ferry landing and surrounds a 2-acre lot owned by the Washington State Department of Transportation. The property possesses development infrastructure including water system and road for a 13-lot subdivision, and residential development on the property would have been highly visible from the water. Protecting this land prevents development and secures otter habitat, old growth forest, and interesting geological features.
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Fisherman Bay Preserves - Weeks Wetland
Lopez Island
Accessible to the public
Weeks Wetland: The 24-acre Weeks Wetland property with its unique saltwater wetland is adjacent to Lopez Village on Fisherman Bay. A rustic trail provides access to an observation deck overlooking the wetland. Visitors may discover the abundance of migratory birds and wetland plants, learn about life in the wetlands from interpretive signs, and watch boats enter and leave Fisherman Bay. Weeks Wetland was funded in part by a matching grant from the State Department of Natural Resources. -
Fisherman Bay Preserves - The Spit
Lopez Island
Accessible to the public
The Spit: This 29-acre property includes open meadows, woodlands, wetlands, approximately 1 mile of shoreline and an exquisite sandy spit marking the entrance to Fisherman Bay. The scenic setting is visible from numerous locations and travel ways, including Lopez Village, San Juan Channel and Fisherman Bay. The public has enjoyed traditional access to the property for many years. Community residents value this property for its recreational opportunities and unique landscape. The property contains important ecological and cultural resources. The Land Bank received a $1,178,000 grant from the WA Wildlife and Recreation Program to help leverage the cost of this acquisition.
Photo credit: George Ackley -
Fisherman Bay Preserves - The Tombolo
Lopez Island
Accessible to the public
The Tombolo: This long, low tombolo was acquired for its extraordinary ecological, scenic and public access values. This natural geologic feature (connecting an island to another island) acts as a buffer between San Juan Channel and Fisherman Bay. The tombolo and its surrounding tidal flats and shoreline provide habitat for numerous wildlife, waterfowl and marine organisms.
Photo credit: George Ackley -
Watmough Bay Preserve
Lopez Island
Accessible to the public
Dramatic cliffs and towering old growth Douglas firs frame the stunning Watmough Bay Preserve at the south end of Lopez Island. In 1993, a seventy-foot section of beach was generously donated to the Land Bank in order to ensure public access to this local treasure. A conservation easement added onto the adjacent 8-acre fresh water wetland helps to further protect the area’s fragile ecosystem and prevents development of the adjacent uplands. The Bureau of Land Management purchased the surrounding 390 acres and has designated the property as an Area of Critical Environmental Concern. In 2007, the Land Bank partnered with the San Juan Preservation Trust to protect an additional 7.29 acres with approximately 680 feet of high bank waterfront along the south side of the bay. A neighboring property owner generously gifted two parcels in an effort to conserve the character of the bay, protect significant ecological features, and maintain the public access that we enjoy.
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Lopez Hill
Lopez Island
Accessible to the public
Lopez Hill encompasses 399 acres, including the highest point on the island. The property is notable for its expanse of mature second-growth forest, diverse freshwater wetlands, and scattered rocky meadows. It is owned by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, and is managed by the Land Bank under the terms of a fifty year lease from the state. The county also retains the right to purchase the remaining value of the parcel during that time period. This arrangement came about after the state announced its intention to allow sale and development of Lopez Hill. Local opposition coalesced into the Friends of Lopez Hill which was instrumental in keeping "The Hill" in public hands.
Over four miles of primitive trails are open to pedestrians, equestrians, and mountain bikers. Limited deer hunting is also permitted; hunters must contact the Land Bank for current regulations. The Friends of Lopez Hill built and maintains trails on the property. A detailed trail map is available from their website http://lopezhill.org/. -
Beaverton Marsh Preserve
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
Grazing cattle, rows of baled hay, open pasture, and family memories closely link this 128-acre homestead to the agricultural heritage of our islands. With nearly a mile of frontage on Roche Harbor Road, Beaverton Marsh has outstanding scenic value as one of the gateways into the Town of Friday Harbor. The property includes a significant portion of one of the most expansive wetland systems in the county. Subsequent to the initial 128-acre acquisition, 7 additional acres of wetland immediately adjacent were acquired. Wetlands provide vital hydraulic functions such as recharge, storage, and purification. Wetlands also attract and sustain numerous species of wildlife. Rare Eurasian widgeons and the more common American widgeon are spotted feeding here. Trumpeter swans, hooded mergansers, and bufflehead ducks also visit the wetland in winter. Public use begins once hay harvest is complete in approximately mid-July, and ends when fall rains saturate the fields, usually in October or later.
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Cady Mountain Preserve
San Juan Island
130-acre Cady Mountain Preserve features outstanding views, rare Garry oak habitat, mature forest, and pocket grasslands. Stewardship activities have focused on maintaining and restoring the oaks and their associated habitats. A long-term aim for this preserve is to create primitive walking trails and eventually open it for public access. -
Deadman Bay Preserve
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
This public land on the west side of San Juan Island provides access to 1,600 feet of shoreline just south of Lime Kiln Point State Park. Visitors may walk along the gravel beach and watch for whales and other marine life from the shore overlooking Haro Strait. Here are panoramic views across Puget Sound to Vancouver Island and the Olympic Mountains, and north to Lime Kiln Point State Park and beyond. The Land Bank received a grant from the Washington State Interagency Committee to make the completion of this project possible.
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Frazer Homestead Preserve
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
The 68-acre Frazer Homestead Preserve protects farmland and scenic views immediately adjacent to the American Camp unit of San Juan Island National Historical Park. The bulk of the preserve is leased for agricultural use to a local farmer, while the remainder may be resold through the Conservation Buyer Program. A trail of slightly over a mile connects the Frazer Homestead Preserve to the American Camp visitor center. It offers views across the farmland to old homesteads, distant islands, and Mount Baker, preserving the beloved landscape we call home.
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False Bay Creek Preserve
San Juan Island
False Bay Creek is the largest watercourse on San Juan Island, and one with high potential to support native fish such as cutthroat trout or salmon. The agricultural use that adjoins the creek is another important aspect of this land. The Land Bank purchased these 39 acres of pasture along False Bay Creek at the intersection of Bailer Hill Road and False Bay Drive in 2008. A pre-existing conservation easement held by the San Juan Preservation Trust doubly serves to protect the land's agricultural, open space, and habitat values by prohibiting structures. -
Edwards Point/Larry Pentz
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
This conservation easement was a gift to the Land Bank from Larry Pentz. Abutting Westside Scenic Preserve to the south, this easement further protects a significant stretch of shoreline on San Juan Island’s magnificent west side. The 8.29 acres extends along 1,300 feet of shoreline and includes a rocky point and a small gravel beach. Apart from a small guesthouse in the southern wooded area, no additional residences will be permitted on this land. -
Westside Scenic Preserve
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
This open expanse lying west of Westside Road provides public access to nearly 16 acres and protects over one-half mile of shoreline south of the Land Bank’s Deadman Bay Preserve. Most notable among this land's features is the biologically-rich, rocky, inter-tidal habitat and offshore reef. The property offers spectacular panoramic views, and visitors may watch for whales and other marine life from the high rocky bluffs that overlook Haro Strait. While best known for its scenic attributes, the Westside Scenic Preserve also has ecological significance as a remnant of an ancient prairie ecosystem. Maintaining and restoring native prairie is one of the Land Bank’s goals here. -
Lower Cattle Point Road/Anderson Property
San Juan Island
These 40 acres frame the gateway into the American Camp area of San Juan Island National Historical Park. The property includes precious forest, meadow, and wetland. The Land Bank expects to include it in the Conservation Buyer Program ensuring protection of its scenic and natural values with a conservation easement. -
Limekiln Preserve and Westside Lake
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
The Land Bank acquired this land for its ecological, scenic, and public access values. This 174-acre preserve abuts Deadman Bay, surrounds Lime Kiln Point State Park on the east, and stretches north along Westside Road. A dam impounds Westside Lake and controls the outflow of drainage into Deadman Bay. When the Land Bank purchased the Limekiln Preserve in 1997, it acquired approximately two-thirds of Westside Lake. Protection of the remainder of the lake and the drainage into Deadman Bay had been a priority for the Land Bank Commission. The acquisition of the remainder of the ten-acre Westside Lake property three years later secured complete protection of the lake providing additional recreational access as well as habitat for waterfowl, other birds, and wildlife. -
King Sisters Preserve
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
The King Sisters Preserve is located at the heart of San Juan Island, protecting fertile farmland, scenic views, forest, and a stream corridor. Owned by the King family since the 1930s, the Land Bank and the four King sisters put together a plan to protect the land: some acreage remained in family hands while the 62-acre majority was purchased by the Land Bank. A public walking trail parallels San Juan Valley Road. It provides views of the valley, Mt. Dallas, and agricultural operations on the preserve. The bulk of the property is now leased to local farmers, and the land continues its traditional role in local agriculture.
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Mount Ben Preserve
San Juan Island
Mount Ben Preserve is located on the south shoulder of Mount Dallas. It protects important scenic and ecological resources. The Land Bank and San Juan Preservation Trust have partnered on this project with a goal of providing opportunity for public access to enjoy the beauty and diversity of the Preserve. The lower reaches of the preserve include mixed forest with gnarled old growth trees while in the upper reaches contain diverse wildflowers and rare prairie and savannah habitat. Outstanding views from the Preserve include the pastoral landscape of San Juan Valley, the rugged shorelines of San Juan and Lopez Islands, and broad vistas across the expanse of Juan De Fuca and Haro Straits to the Olympic Peninsula and Vancouver Island. The Land Bank and the Preservation Trust first acquired a conservation easement on this property in 2004. The landowner later gifted their remaining interest in the property with the wish that its resources be conserved and made available to the people of San Juan County in perpetuity. -
Alderman Preserve
San Juan Island
The Land Bank purchased this land to further its goal of preserving farmland in San Juan Valley. This ten-acre parcel is located on the floor of San Juan Valley fronting Bailer Hill Road. It is still in agricultural use and provides views north into the San Juan Valley and south to the Olympic Peninsula. This land may be resold in the future encumbered by a conservation easement to protect its agricultural and open space value. -
Third Lagoon Preserve
San Juan Island
Accessible to the public
Adjacent to American Camp National Historical Park and the Cattle Point Natural Resources Conservation Area, these 20 acres include a rare saltwater lagoon of national, state, and local significance; a low vegetated berm; a sandy inter-tidal salt marsh; and a mature Douglas Fir upland forest. The lagoon and its surroundings provide habitat for numerous wildlife and marine organisms including nesting bald eagles and a great blue heron rookery. During winter, migrating waterfowl frequent the preserve. Acquired in partnership with the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, a legally-binding agreement between the Department of Natural Resources and the Land Bank ensures preservation in perpetuity of this important habitat. -
Roark House Historic Preservation and Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
This property was acquired to preserve its significant historic values. The classic craftsman style bungalow was built in 1913. Little has changed since then. The original architectural integrity of the residence is almost completely intact. The Friday Harbor Historic Preservation Review Board identified this house as one of eight significant residences located on the old Argyle Wagon Road (now known as Lower Argyle Avenue). This is the oldest residential neighborhood in Friday Harbor. The Land Bank encumbered the residence and property with an historic preservation and conservation easement and the residence was exchanged for one of the Lower Argyle lots and resold. -
Trout Lake Watershed
San Juan Island
This 40-acre parcel situated near the top of the town watershed and surrounded on three sides by Town of Friday Harbor land is key for watershed protection. The Land Bank will encumber approximately ten acres with a conservation easement that restricts development and prevents land use practices that could impact the quality of the town’s water supply. The encumbered property will be included in the Land Bank Conservation Buyer Program and resold for limited residential use. The Land Bank will retain ownership of the remaining thirty acres. -
Wade Sundstrom Farm
San Juan Island
The historic Wade Sundstrom Farm on San Juan Island has operated for over ninety years. The Land Bank purchased a portion of it in 2008. Located at the corner of Douglas and San Juan Valley Roads, this farmland serves as a gateway to the agricultural lands of the valley. Its distinctive pastures and rolling hills are well known to islanders. The Land Bank has agreed to resell the 120-acre property to the San Juan Preservation Trust, after jointly crafting a conservation easement eliminating all potential residential development. The goal of the project is to see that the land stays a working farm into the foreseeable future. -
Turtleback Mountain Preserve
Orcas Island
Accessible to the public
Turtleback Mountain Preserve is one of the most familiar and beloved landscapes in the San Juan Islands. Treasured by islanders for its dark, undeveloped ridge line, it is a refuge for wildlife and a haven for those who wander the trails through a mosaic of forests, wetlands and open meadows.
Turtleback Mountain is one of the largest undeveloped places in the county. Sheltering a variety of special habitats and species, the preserve is ecologically significant as well as beautiful. Grasslands and Garry oak woodlands cover the mountain’s dry southern slopes while conifer forest blankets the remainder. Pocket wetlands scattered about the property provide crucial habitat for wildlife and moisture-loving plants. Seasonal drainage from the mountain nourishes the fertile wetlands of Crow Valley and the rich marine habitats of West Sound. Towering over Crow Valley and West Sound, Turtleback Mountain is visible from many vantage points throughout the county and beyond.
Turtleback is a recreational resource. Its high meadows and rocky ledges provide unparalleled views of the San Juan and Canadian Gulf Islands. There are a variety of trails for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing. All trails are open for pedestrian use year-round. Within the multi-use trail area, horses and bikes are allowed on an even/odd day rotation – bikes on even calendar days and horses on odd calendar days – via the north trailhead.
A major conservation effort in 2006 with partners and citizens made Turtleback a reality, and more recently, our partnership with San Juan Preservation Trust expanded and connected public access from Turtlehead to Turtleback via what is known to the community as "Turtleneck." -
Fowler’s Pond Preserve
Orcas Island
Fowler’s Pond is a beloved Orcas Island landmark. These 40.25 acres include gently sloping grassy meadows, woodlands, and two scenic ponds. Preserved together, these habitats provide a biologically-rich environment. Some of the wildlife residents include common snipes, coots, wood ducks, pacific chorus frogs, red-legged frogs, and rough skin newts. Guided by public opinion, access to this wildlife preserve is currently by permission only, yet Fowler’s Pond remains a favorite scenic vista from both Horseshoe Highway and Crow Valley Road. In 2006, the addition of an adjacent nine forested hilltop acres known as “Fowler’s Knob” expanded this preserve to what it is today. -
Stonebridge-Terrill Preserve
Orcas Island
Accessible to the public
Stonebridge-Terrill Preserve protects 59 acres of meadow, wetlands, and forest. Used historically for agriculture, a portion of this land still yields hay for island livestock. The preserve provides varied habitat for wildlife, retains stormwater, and helps recharge aquifers. A short trail into a forested wetland and wildlife observation area is open year-round. The mowed portion of the preserve is open to the public following mowing in late summer with walk-in access from the adjacent county roads. A portion of the field is also used occasionally by the Orcas Radio Control Aircraft Society. -
Eastsound Waterfront Park
Orcas Island
Accessible to the public
Located on the main entrance road to Eastsound Village, the Land Bank’s first acquisition in 1993 added .45 acres and 100 feet of shoreline to the existing county park. The popular Waterfront Park preserves views of the water from the village and allows public access to the shoreline and nearby publicly-owned Indian Island. In 2003, the Land Bank acquired an adjacent one-acre parcel and 356 feet of waterfront. An additional .45 acre property abutting the eastern boundary of the park was acquired later to further expand the size of the park and increase water frontage by another 100 feet.
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Coffelt Farm Preserve
Orcas Island
To help ensure a future of local agriculture, the Land Bank purchased Coffelt Farm on Orcas Island. This working farm of 185 acres spans Crow Valley and encompasses an expanse of scenic open-space, habitat resources, and productive agricultural land.
In 1995, Vern and Sidney Coffelt worked with the Land Bank to place a conservation easement on their farm to limit development and protect special features of the land. The easement was an important step, but it did not ensure that future landowners would continue to farm the property. After 60 years of working the land, and with a conviction that it must be made available to future generations of farmers, the Coffelts sold the bulk of the farm to the Land Bank in 2008. 10 acres remain privately owned under the conservation easement. The terms of the easement allow for one residential dwelling and protect farm fields and views. -
Entrance Mountain Preserve
Orcas Island
These four parcels of special land located on Entrance Mountain are important scenic and natural areas. One 48-acre parcel is located on the ridge-top and west-facing side of the mountain. This is the north knob of the mountain. A second 32-acre parcel is on the eastern face of the mountain and can be seen from many locations on Mount Constitution. The third 10-acre parcel on its northern flanks can be spotted from Cascade Lake. This parcel may be included in the Land Bank Conservation Buyer Program in the future. In January 2008, an adjacent 36 acres was donated by the William Halpenny Estate. The Halpenny addition has rugged topography and is heavily forested. Of particular note is the prevalence of Sitka spruce and scattered areas of mature big leaf maple. At higher elevations, slide chutes and boulders are coated by lush moss, adding another element to the land’s many-textured features and providing an array of opportunities for wildlife. -
President Channel Preserve
Orcas Island
An abundance of juvenile Chinook salmon making their way out to the open sea are supported by President Channel Preserve’s 2,500 feet of shoreline. This land also includes a historic lime kiln, bald eagle nesting, madrona woodland, and coastal prairie. The San Juan Preservation Trust and the Washington State Salmon Recovery Funding Board covered the entire cost of purchasing this preserve. -
Orcas Artworks Historic Preservation and Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
The Orcas Artworks building is significant to the agricultural history of Orcas Island. It embodies the story of rural life and farming in the depression era of the 1930s and during World War II. The building was constructed in the 1930s as a strawberry packing plant where Orcas-grown strawberries were processed, barreled, and shipped to the mainland for market. The advent of WWII in 1941 led to the demise of this island industry that was dependent on farm laborers. The Land Bank acquired an easement to maintain the historic character of the building and to preserve the open space quality of the surrounding grounds. -
Hummel Lake Preserve
Lopez Island
Accessible to the public
Located on the south side of Lopez Island’s largest freshwater lake, this 80-acre Preserve includes 1,450 feet of lakefront shoreline, wetland, meadow, forest, and habitat for many bird species. An ADA-accessible trail disappears into a small cedar grove, meanders through the forest, and continues along the edge between the forest and meadow eventually winding up at the floating dock. A longer hiking trail starts at the parking lot and wanders through the forest to Port Stanley Road.
Photo credit: George Ackley -
Crescent Beach Preserve
Orcas Island
Accessible to the public
Waterfront access on Orcas Island is a high priority for locals. Crescent Beach, with its outstanding scenic values, ecological resources, and potential for public access has been a top conservation priority for the Land Bank since the beginning of the program. An acquisition of 112 acres in 1998 included nearly 300 feet of no-bank beach waterfront and an extensive wetland system including a large pristine wetland adjacent to Crescent Beach. Another in 2000 added an additional 5 acres and 855 feet of waterfront. In 2002 and 2005, the preserve expanded further with the addition of 13.75 acres and 968 more feet of shoreline providing new options for enjoyment, access, walking trails, and parking. Crescent Beach Preserve is a gem for marine study and public enjoyment. -
Deer Harbor Waterfront Preserve
Orcas Island
Accessible to the public
These precious two acres with 650 feet of low-bank marine shoreline and associated tidelands are ideally located just north of the Deer Harbor hamlet. A walking path of mixed forest and an area of open meadow provides public access to the shoreline and views across the harbor to the Wasp Islands. A variety of birds utilize this land including bald eagles, osprey, kingfishers, and hummingbirds. The Land Bank’s restoration efforts here have improved important shoreline processes and habitat function to benefit forage fish that are essential to salmon. -
Schaefer Stretch Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
This conservation easement protects 133.61 acres of Crow Valley. The property has roughly 6,000 feet of road frontage on Horseshoe Highway. A number of agricultural fields edged by woodlands are visible from the road. Through the easement, four house sites are allowed at locations that do not interfere with the agricultural and scenic value of this land. -
Judd Cove Preserve
Orcas Island
Accessible to the public
The Judd Cove Preserve is an exquisite jewel along the western shore of East Sound. Comprised of three parcels acquired by the Land Bank from 2000 - 2008, the 11-acre natural area encompasses a rich variety of habitats, including mature mixed forest, 355 feet of marine shoreline, freshwater wetlands, and extensive tidelands. The site is also the location of a partially restored 1880’s lime kiln and quarry which help tell the story of the lime industry in the San Juans. The peaceful and picturesque setting of this sanctuary offers pedestrian shoreline access and special opportunities for wildlife watching. -
Lower Argyle Historic Lots
San Juan Island
These undeveloped lots are located in the heart of the historic Lower Argyle Avenue neighborhood. Three lots were purchased outright and one lot was acquired through an exchange for the historic Roark House and $55,000 (the difference between the appraised values of the Roark House and the one lot). These properties were acquired to protect the historic integrity of the oldest residential neighborhood in the Town of Friday Harbor. The lots will be included in the Land Bank Conservation Buyer Program, encumbered with historic preservation and conservation easements to restrict future uses and development that could compromise the historic and cultural integrity of the neighborhood and resold. -
Olga Community Club Park
Orcas Island
When a tiny partial-acre wooded lot adjacent to the Community Club in the hamlet of Olga became available, residents launched an effort to purchase it for the community. The Land Bank assisted in the protection of the land with the purchase of a conservation easement which eliminates any possible future development. This action keeps the sleepy character the Olga community values and provides this land for the public in perpetuity. -
Orcas Tidelands
Orcas Island
Adjacent to the Orcas ferry landing, the Orcas Village tidelands contain important eelgrass beds and marine habitat. They were vulnerable to a highly-contested marina proposal. The Save Orcas Bay Alliance purchased the tidelands and donated fee title to the Land Bank. A conservation easement was gifted to the private nonprofit land conservation organization, The San Juan Preservation Trust, adding an additional layer of protection. -
Diamond Hill Preserve
Orcas Island
Diamond Hill rises to over 600 feet above the waters of East Sound and Harney Channel. This diverse and secluded 45-acre preserve includes grassy meadows, a quiet wetland that supports breeding amphibians, and abundant wildlife. Most of the preserve was purchased from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. Five acres were donated by a generous neighbor. -
Hunt Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
This stretch of shoreline is visible from Griffin Bay, Cattle Pass, and the south shore of Lopez Island. Acquired through donation, the first conservation easement gifted by the Hunts in 1995 protected 1.9 acres of woodland and shoreline at Cattle Pass. A second gift of a conservation easement in 2002 protects an adjoining 1.5 acres that includes a salt marsh, a freshwater wetland, and important habitat for fragile and unique native plants. This land is frequented by many species of birds, is home to numerous native wildflowers, and the beach is regularly visited by marine mammals. The easement addresses the harvesting of native plants, introduction of non-native invasive plants, tree cutting, grazing, and other activities. The goal of the easement is to preserve this land's native and natural values. -
Stonecrest Farm Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
Stonecrest Farm produces Angus beef cattle and Icelandic sheep. Bob and Catherine Clemens donated a conservation easement on 39 acres of gently rolling farmland south of Kjargaard Road. Under the terms of the conservation easement, which is crafted to protect scenic and agricultural resources, no residences or other buildings may ever be placed on this open, productive sweep of land. Stonecrest Farm is located within a quarter mile of two other Land Bank protected farms in the fertile Central Valley neighborhood. -
Crowley Preserve Conservation Easement
Blakely Island
The 80-acre Crowley Preserve Conservation Easement on Blakely Island lies along the southwestern shore of this outer island, highly visible from the Washington State Ferry route. Its steep slopes support mature forest, Garry oaks, and native grassland. In 2010, the Crowley family donated the preserve to the San Juan Preservation Trust. A forever wild conservation easement was simultaneously donated to the Land Bank to doubly ensure the long-term protection of the land. -
Oak Knoll Farm Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
The Land Bank acquired this land to protect its important scenic and agricultural resources. Continued agricultural use is encouraged and additional farm buildings are permitted. The property features an exceptional stand of mature Garry oak trees. Any new buildings or improvements will be sited in a manner to maximize protection of the Garry oak habitat. -
Tharald Homestead Historic Preservation Easement
Shaw Island
With the exception of Krumdiack Homestead on Waldron Island, the Tharald Homestead is the most intact example of homesteading life in the islands. The house has been continuously occupied and cared for since 1883. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the two-story log structure is beautifully crafted from dovetail notched cedar logs. The original configuration is still intact. Fred Ellis donated a historic preservation easement that encumbers the façade and a portion of the interior of the log house. -
Cattle Point Road/Heritage Farm Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
The Land Bank purchased a conservation easement on this scenic 39-acre farm to preserve in perpetuity its rural character and the opportunities for future farming. Farmers are raising hay and pasture-fed turkeys and chickens on their farm. A stout red barn houses a team of draft horses used to do much of the agriculture work. This working farm with its open expanse of pasture is quite visible from Cattle Point Road. The amended conservation easement protects additional open space. -
Buck Bay West Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
This small but precious .41-acre property dramatically affects the maritime setting of Buck Bay and the views from Pt Lawrence Road in Olga. Buck Bay is an active estuary, rich with marine life. The Land Bank acquired an easement from The San Juan Preservation Trust as part of an ongoing partnership to protect the ecological and scenic marine values of Buck Bay. The property features steeply sloping forest, 343 feet of high bank waterfront, and extensive tidelands. The conservation easement extinguishes all development potential and protects the land as forever wild. -
Beaverton Marsh Conservation Easements
San Juan Island
Beaverton Marsh is the largest freshwater wetland in the county. Acquisition of conservation easements is furthering the Land Bank's work to protect and restore the marsh. The largest transaction was made possible with funding from the North American Wetland Conservation Act, secured in partnership with Ducks Unlimited. -
Clapp Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
The Clapp conservation easement provides an opportunity to substantially reduce density of an important stretch of scenic West Sound shoreline and to preserve natural features on the nearly 160-acre property. The easement permits 16 residences instead of 58 that would be feasible under the current comprehensive plan. Ten potential shoreline lots will be limited to five including the existing house. -
Cattle Point Road/Howard Farm Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
Driving south on Cattle Point Road, the view opens dramatically to reveal a pastoral landscape of hay and grazing fields, vegetable plots, ponds, and barns for sheltering animals and storing crops and equipment. In 2009, the Land Bank assembled the final piece of more than 175 contiguous protected acres in this spot and culminated a 15-year project. A conservation easement on the 27-acre Howard property ensures the land will remain open and available for agriculture. -
Mulno Cove Farm Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
Mulno Cove Farm consists of 78 acres of beautiful woodlands along Cattle Point Road, open agricultural fields, numerous ponds, and 500 feet of shoreline along Griffin Bay. The farm has operated as a market garden contributing garden fresh produce to our local farmers’ market and restaurants. The conservation easement reduces development from 16 lots to five with no development along the shoreline. -
Cattle Point Road Trail Easements
San Juan Island
We're working with the San Juan Island Trails Committee in their effort to create a pedestrian trail connecting the Town of Friday Harbor with the American Camp unit of San Juan Island National Historical Park. In addition to constructing a portion of the trail on the Frazer Homestead Preserve, the Land Bank is accepting donations of trail easements from private landowners fronting Cattle Point Road. To date, four property owners have gifted easements totaling over 2000 lineal feet. -
San Juan Historical Society Historic Preservation and Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
Located within the town of Friday Harbor and open to the public, the San Juan Historical Museum features a traditional island homestead. Purchase of this historic preservation and conservation easement helps ensure it will remain a place where future generations can learn from the past. The historical society used the funds from this purchase to restore the King House and other significant structures on the property. -
Cole Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
This 245-acre property is divided into a 193-acre farm and a 52-acre parcel of woodland waterfront on Aleck Bay. The gently rolling farmland stretches along Aleck Bay Road on the south end of Lopez Island. A well-known, long-time local farmer, Howard Cole, protected the farm with a conservation easement that allows for continued agricultural use of the property but limits the density to a maximum of two house sites. The waterfront lot includes 1,555 feet of rocky shoreline and a protected beach in Aleck Bay. It provides habitat for the brittle prickly pear cactus, a species of local concern. Howard Cole donated nearly all of the value of the conservation easement on the shoreline piece. -
Warm Valley Farm Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
This important heritage farm has been in agricultural use since the 1800s. Warm Valley Farm has been farmed by the present owners for over 30 years. The 78-acre farm has nearly 2,000 feet of road frontage on Horseshoe Highway and includes pasture land grazed by sheep, numerous fruit and nut trees, a large vegetable garden, and substantial woodlands. Under the terms of the easement, the land will remain as one residential lot with a limited-size residence and guest house. -
Cattle Point Road/Portland Fair Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
The Portland Fair Homeowners Association land is the wellhead site for the water system of the Portland Fair subdivision. The easement extinguishes all future development rights. These twenty-two acres of open pasture are part of a corridor of preserved agricultural lands along Cattle Point Road. -
Twigg-Smith Conservation Easement
San Juan Island
This land is 155 acres of open farmland with some lovely small wooded areas. Located on San Juan Valley Road just past Douglas Road, it has over 2,600 feet fronting on San Juan Valley Road. The conservation easement allows the land to be two lots. The agricultural areas here are to be preserved and all visible construction will be located at least 1,700 feet back from the county road. -
Kjargaard Farm Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
Lopez fields will remain undeveloped and available for future farmers. This 95-acre conservation easement protects fertile farmland in the Central Valley of Lopez Island. The land was first homesteaded as a farm in 1871 and remains in agricultural production to this day. A Farmland Protection grant from Washington State’s Wildlife and Recreation Program made this conservation easement possible. -
Harris-Pressenda Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
This property consists of 50.6 acres of open fields, some woodlands, and over 1,400 feet of frontage on Fisherman Bay Road. New development in the open fields of the property would be very visible. Our goal is continued agricultural use. The conservation easement preserves the scenic character of the property and its value as agricultural land. -
Johnson Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
This 40 acre property abuts the prominent Iceberg Point on the south end of Lopez Island. Iceberg Point is owned by the Bureau of Land Management and has significant shoreline and ecological features. The Johnson property stretches along the east side of the Bureau of Land Management property and includes 660 feet of shoreline on Outer Bay. The conservation easement protects the shoreline, open meadows and upland forest. One guest house may be constructed on the property within a defined building envelope. A small portion of the property is also protected by a conservation easement held by the San Juan Preservation Trust. -
Point Disney Preserve
Waldron Island
This land is one of the largest undeveloped waterfront parcels remaining in the San Juan Islands. The Land Bank and the San Juan Preservation Trust entered into a joint agreement to protect over 5,700 feet of shoreline and 219 acres of diverse habitat. The Land Bank holds a conservation easement on 171 acres which includes dramatic rocky cliffs outlined by madrona and juniper trees, oak groves, wetland and mature forest. The easement ensures the property will be forever wild with no development. The property lies adjacent to the 205-acre Bitte Baer Preserve owned by The Nature Conservancy. -
Pole Pass Conservation Easement
Crane Island
While small in size, this property’s distinctive, natural shoreline is quite visible to boaters passing through Pole Pass and from ferries in Wasp Passage. The Land Bank acquired a conservation easement to protect the shoreline habitat and scenic values. The easement eliminates all development potential. -
Mosquito Pass Preserve
Henry Island
The Land Bank and The San Juan Preservation Trust joined together to preserve the significant conservation values of this outer island parcel. The Land Bank acquired a conservation easement on these magnificent 20.5 acres to protect its outstanding scenic values, ecological resources, and potential for public access. The Trust acquired fee ownership and the Land Bank continues to hold its conservation easement. Between the two, the potential for any residential development on this land is eliminated and limited public access to the east side is provisional. Protected here is 1,584 feet of low-bank beach frontage on Mosquito Pass. -
Waldron Community Land Trust
Waldron Island
The Land Bank acquired a conservation easement on 13 acres of this nearly 20-acre property to preserve its forest resource values and assist the Waldron Community Land Trust. The Waldron Community Land Trust intends to use the land as a stewardship model for sustainable forestry, fire safety maintenance, aquifer recharge, protection of highly erosive soils, and walking trails. -
Strachan Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
The Strachan property lies prominently along Port Stanley Road looking toward Swifts Bay and Humphrey Head. This donated conservation easement will keep this view unobstructed with all residential structures removed from the open fields and new construction limited to the northeast corner of the property. This layout will restore and maintain nearly twenty acres of agricultural land. -
Gudgell Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
The Gudgell family donated a conservation easement protecting 31 acres of the eastern flank of Turtleback Mountain. The easement extinguishes four potential house sites from the property, limiting development substantially. The property is steep-sloped, forested, and includes a prominent rock knob that is a beloved vista from many locations along Crow Valley Road and Horseshoe Highway. -
Trumble and Gibbs Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
Acquisition of this conservation easement completed protection of the Cayou Valley Lagoon. The property abuts the Bob and Meg Connor property and includes the only portion of the estuary that was not protected through the Connor conservation easement. -
Golithon Preserve Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
Golithon Preserve on Buck Bay is a pristine example of forested shoreline habitat. The Preserve includes 143 feet of shoreline along the eastern shore of Buck Bay and a prominent forested point quite visible from Point Lawrence Road. Protection of this forever wild nature preserve was a partnership effort between The San Juan Preservation Trust, who holds fee title ownership, and the Land Bank, whose conservation easement adds an additional layer of protection. -
Hogback Mountain Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
The Hogback Mountain project marks the first cooperative venture between the San Juan County Land Bank and the San Juan Preservation Trust. The 50 acres protected by two conservation easements include a prominent bald meadow, second-growth forest, and a stream adjacent to the eastern boundary of Moran State Park. The Preservation Trust cares for the northern 30 acres. A conservation easement on this parcel prohibits any residential development but allows for public pedestrian access from the adjacent park. The southern 20 acres is owned by a private landowner. The Land Bank also holds a conservation easement on this land. The easement limits development to two residential lots and restricts building size and location. -
Plum Tree Farm Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
The Plum Tree Farm conservation easement protects 55 acres of open farmland and a small portion of forest in the scenic Crow Valley. The property lies along Horseshoe Highway and Nordstrom Lane and provides a viewshed of Turtleback Mountain to the west and Crow Valley to the east. The Land Bank exchanged the six-acre Miller property purchased in 1996 for a conservation easement on the entire 55-acre farm. The Land Bank and property owners are working together to restore the overgrown fields to historic pasture. The conservation easement prevents residential construction in the viewshed and preserves the agricultural areas of the land. -
Bluebell Springs Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
This conservation easement, acquired through donation, protects an important stretch of scenic shoreline on the north shore of Orcas Island. The 66.6 acre property is a mixture of forest and meadow. The Twin Lakes seasonal outfall passes through the middle of the property and empties into Georgia Strait. Approximately 1,800 feet of shoreline is visible from the waters of the strait and some of the outer islands. This easement reduces development from 13 lots to five, and eight potential shoreline lots will be limited to two. -
Lee Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
This scenic farm and its open meadows and fields are bound by three major county roads. The conservation easement protects the agricultural, scenic, and open space values of the farm. With this conservation easement in place, the Land Bank has assisted with the preservation of the important agricultural value of the Central Valley. -
Connor Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
Cayou Valley Lagoon is a fertile tidal inlet where blue heron and osprey frequently fish and red-tailed hawks breed. The Land Bank’s conservation easement on 109 of Bob and Meg Connor’s 131 acres, protects this wildlife habitat, and creates a wildlife corridor to an upland freshwater marsh known as the Frank Richardson Preserve. The land will be managed to sustain and enhance wildlife habitat such as perching and nesting trees, open fields, brush areas, and woodlands. -
Helwig Conservation Easement
Lopez Island
This gift from the Hazel Helwig Trust enhances a network of conservation protection at the south end of Lopez Island. The donated conservation easement protects a dramatic 10.7-acre shoreline on the southern end of Lopez Island. This land includes woodlands, pasture, a heritage orchard, a rocky headland covered by native grassland, and 570 feet of shoreline on Aleck Bay. The easement includes restrictions on building and siting; it is designed to minimize future impacts to the scenic and open space values of this special place. -
Stonebridge Farm Conservation Easement
Orcas Island
35-acre Stonebridge Farm Conservation Easement protects scenic views and farmland directly north of the village of Eastsound. The Land Bank first purchased 74 acres in 2005, then sold this 35 acres through the conservation buyer program in 2006. The remaining 39 acres became part of the Stonebridge-Terrill Preserve. The conservation easement limits the number of residences to two, and ensures that these expansive, prime agricultural fields will not be developed.
