What’s Happening at Beaverton Marsh Preserve?

Agriculture Access Update:
Growing and grazing season is upon us and the Overmarsh Farm Commons (OFC) is going full steam ahead! In February, the Land Bank and San Juan Island Grange entered a long-term lease for 40 acres of the Land Bank’s Beaverton Marsh Preserve for their OFC project, and they’ve been plowing along ever since.

Going into their first season, the OFC reported over 30 enthusiastic participants are busy building garden plots on approximately ½ acre, with the remaining area to be grazed, hayed, or mulch cut. Together the Land Bank and Grange are improving key project infrastructure including water systems, fencing, access, greenhouse, tool shed, etc.

“We have been very pleased by the reaction from local growers, with work parties several times per month,” stated Roger Ellison, San Juan Island Grange President. He added, “Growers’ personal beds are green with fresh young plants, promising good harvests ahead.”

The Land Bank is excited to see how our partnership grows and adapts. To learn more about OFC, please visit their website: sanjuangrange.org/overmarsh-farm-commons.

Connector Trail Project Update:

photo credit: JBelcovson

Although still at a very preliminary point in the project, the Land Bank hit it’s first funding milestone two weeks ago when staff received approval from WSDOT to hire a design and engineering consultant. A Request for Qualifications has gone out with a closing date of July 25, 2025 (click here to view RFQ). Stay tuned – we look forward to sharing more details as they develop!