San Juan County Conservation Land Bank

San Juan County Fair
2024-08-15 10:30 - 20:30 (America/Los_Angeles)
Join us for the 2024 San Juan County Fair! Your Conservation Land Bank will be located in the Green Village, next to the Ag Tent, along with partner organizations Wolf Hollow, San Juan County Environmental Stewardship , The Whale Museum, San Juan Islands Conservation Corps, and San Juan Islands National Monument and Bureau of Land Management.
The Green Village and WSU Extension have put together four fun-filled days of demos, talks, and activities. Saturday, August 17th, features our own Lincoln Bormann, Land Bank Director and Sunday, August 18th, features Eliza Habegger, nursery manager at the Salish Seeds Project. Click on the image for the full four day schedule.

Volunteer Event | Third Thursdays at The Salish Seeds Project
2024-08-15 09:00 - 12:00, 2024-07-18 09:00 - 12:00
You’re invited to join other native plant lovers at the Salish Seeds Project nursery on San Juan Island every third Thursday of the month, April – October. Tasks vary by the season, and can include weeding, seeding, thinning, transplanting, harvesting seed, spreading woodchips, pruning, and watering. Tools are provided, but please bring gloves, water, and anything else you may need for the morning. As an added bonus, volunteers can take home any “orphan” plants on hand.
The Salish Seeds Project is a joint program of the San Juan County Conservation Land Bank and the San Juan Preservation Trust. Click here to learn more.
Registration is requested. R.S.V.P. to Tanja Williamson at 360-370-7655 or email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org .

Partner Event | Free Guided Poetry Sessions with Island Verse Literary Collective at Mount Grant Preserve
2024-08-11 17:00 - 19:00
Join Island Verse Literary Collective for a two hour writing workshop at Mount Grant Preserve on San Juan Island. Facilitators Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard will expand ecocultural literacy through the history, anima, and plants of sacred spaces on San Juan Island. Workshop participants will explore their personal narratives through a rare opportunity to learn about the oft-hidden narratives in nature that compose the story of our exquisite Island. Participants will have the option of publishing their writing in an anthology and sharing their work at an author showcase in the fall.
What to Expect:

Guided Writing Exercises: Each session will be led by Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard who will provide in-depth knowledge of San Juan Island’s ecology, step-by-step guidance for writing exercises, and creative feedback.
Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife in a peaceful, reflective setting.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene and supportive environment, perfect for both beginner and experienced writers.

Additional Information:

Registration: Please register in advance to secure your spot at islandverse.org/event-list.
What to Bring: A notebook and preferred writing instrument(s). We recommend bringing a hat, bug spray, sunscreen, water bottle, snack, and a portable chair or blanket for your comfort.

Weather: In case of inclement weather, sessions may be canceled. Registered participants will be notified by email.

CANCELLED | North Shore Property Guided Tour
2024-08-10 10:00 - 11:30
JULY 1, 2024 UPDATE : AUGUST TOURS CANCELLED DUE TO CONSTRUCTION
Land Bank staff will lead three tours monthly this summer. Click here to sign up for a scheduled tour. We will adjust the schedule as necessary based on demand. Please note: due to limited parking, tours will be capped at 10 vehicles. Carpooling and cycling encouraged.
The property is surrounded by private residences. This includes private beaches to the east and west and it is essential that the Land Bank and the public respect their privacy and property rights. We understand that there is strong community interest in this property, and we seek your support and cooperation while we plan for and prepare it for opening.

Volunteer Event | Wednesday Workparty at Watmough Bay Preserve Addition
2024-08-07 10:00 - 12:00
Help steward Watmough Preserve addition! Take in the amazing views and learn about the preserve’s history while engaging in seasonal stewardship tasks with Land Bank staff.
Contact Tanja Williamson at 360-378-4402 or email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org for more information.

Partner Event | Free Guided Poetry Sessions with Island Verse Literary Collective at Zylstra Lake Preserve
2024-08-04 17:00 - 19:00
Join Island Verse Literary Collective for a two hour writing workshop at Zylstra Lake Preserve on San Juan Island. Facilitators Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard will expand ecocultural literacy through the history, anima, and plants of sacred spaces on San Juan Island. Workshop participants will explore their personal narratives through a rare opportunity to learn about the oft-hidden narratives in nature that compose the story of our exquisite Island. Participants will have the option of publishing their writing in an anthology and sharing their work at an author showcase in the fall.
What to Expect:

Guided Writing Exercises: Each session will be led by Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard who will provide in-depth knowledge of San Juan Island’s ecology, step-by-step guidance for writing exercises, and creative feedback.
Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife in a peaceful, reflective setting.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene and supportive environment, perfect for both beginner and experienced writers.

Additional Information:

Registration: Please register in advance to secure your spot at islandverse.org/event-list.
What to Bring: A notebook and preferred writing instrument(s). We recommend bringing a hat, bug spray, sunscreen, water bottle, snack, and a portable chair or blanket for your comfort.

Weather: In case of inclement weather, sessions may be canceled. Registered participants will be notified by email.

Snails, Stars, and Sea Cucumbers | An Intertidal Walk at Deadman Bay Preserve, San Juan Island
2024-08-04 10:30 - 12:30
There’s more to the West Side of San Juan Island than orcas! Dr. Megan Dethier, of the University of Washington and long-time researcher at the Friday Harbor Laboratories, and Dr. Drew Harvell, professor of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Cornell University, will lead an exploration of the intertidal zone at the Land Bank’s Deadman Bay Preserve on San Juan Island.
Spend the morning among an amazing diversity of spineless animals (invertebrates) and learn how they feed, reproduce, and interact with each other. Wear some old sneakers or come prepared to get wet up to your knees. If you have a plastic magnifying glass, bring it! Kids welcome with adult supervision.
Meet and park at the Lime Kiln Point State Park main lot – Discover Pass or parking fee required – participants will walk to the preserve.
For more information contact Tanja Williamson at 360-370-7655 or tanjaw@sjclandbank.org.

Redtail Trail Opening Celebration on San Juan Island
2024-08-03 12:00 - 15:00
Paved path at John O. Linde Community Park
Redtail trail at Beaverton Marsh Preserve
Join commissioners and staff from Island Rec, the Land Bank, and San Juan Preservation Trust as we celebrate a short and significant new trail connection between John O. Linde Community Park (Linde Park) and the eastern portion of Beaverton Marsh Preserve. A 72’ boardwalk links Linde Park’s newest paved path to the Land Bank’s freshly constructed Redtail trail, a 1/2 mile gravel loop dotted with a few valley vistas along the way.
Access and parking for Redtail trail is via Linde Park. A short opening ceremony including local inspired poetry is scheduled to begin at 12:30pm. Light snacks and refreshments will be available.
Questions? Contact Tanja Williamson at tanjaw@sjclandbank.org or call 360-370-7655.

Lopez Island Farmers Market
2024-08-03 10:00 - 14:00, 2024-07-06 10:00 - 14:00
Find us at the Lopez Island Farmers Market today!

CANCELLED - North Shore Property Guided Tour
2024-08-02 12:00 - 13:30

Partner Event | Free Guided Painting Session with Alchemy Art Center at Deadman Bay Preserve
2024-08-02 09:00 - 11:00
Join Alchemy Art Center for a two-hour painting session at Deadman Bay Preserve where participants of all skill levels are invited to connect with nature and create artworks inspired by our Islands’ landscapes.
What to Expect:

Guided Painting: Each session will be led by Maria Michaelson or Glenn Hendrick who will provide step-by-step guidance. Meet up and introductions will take place between 9am and 9:15am, and then move to the painting location (from the parking area) at 9:15. The class will have a hard start time, at the painting location, at 9:30am.
Instruction: Maria will lead a short centering meditation, after which, Glenn will share some techniques, concepts, and demos for anyone who is interested, along with further resources for plein air painting. Technical support will be offered to participants of all levels throughout the painting time. We will gather at the end of class to share our work with each other in a supportive environment!
Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife.
Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife.
Materials: Alchemy will have some supplies on hand (notebooks, watercolor pencils) however, participants are encouraged to bring any materials (paper, paint, drawing supplies, easels, etc) that they are excited to work with. Materials questions can be directed to Glenn at glenn@alchemyartcenter.com
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful and supportive environment, perfect for both beginner and experienced painters.

Additional Information:

Registration requested but not required: Email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org to register.
What to Bring: We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, snack, and a portable chair or blanket for your comfort.
Weather: In case of inclement weather, sessions will be cancelled. Registered participants will be notified by email.
Parking: Meet and park at the Lime Kiln Point State Park main lot – Discover Pass or parking fee required – participants will walk to the preserve.

For questions contact Tanja Williamson at 360-370-7655 or email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org.

Partner Event | Free Guided Poetry Sessions with Island Verse Literary Collective at Westside Preserve
2024-07-28 17:00 - 19:00
Join Island Verse Literary Collective for a two hour writing workshop at Westside Preserve on San Juan Island. Facilitators Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard will expand ecocultural literacy through the history, anima, and plants of sacred spaces on San Juan Island. Workshop participants will explore their personal narratives through a rare opportunity to learn about the oft-hidden narratives in nature that compose the story of our exquisite Island. Participants will have the option of publishing their writing in an anthology and sharing their work at an author showcase in the fall.
What to Expect:

Guided Writing Exercises: Each session will be led by Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard who will provide in-depth knowledge of San Juan Island’s ecology, step-by-step guidance for writing exercises, and creative feedback.
Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife in a peaceful, reflective setting.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene and supportive environment, perfect for both beginner and experienced writers.

Additional Information:

Registration: Please register in advance to secure your spot at islandverse.org/event-list.
What to Bring: A notebook and preferred writing instrument(s). We recommend bringing a hat, bug spray, sunscreen, water bottle, snack, and a portable chair or blanket for your comfort.

Weather: In case of inclement weather, sessions may be canceled. Registered participants will be notified by email.

Partner Event | Know Your Island Walk at Cady Mountain Preserve
2024-07-27 10:00 - 13:00
Discover the heart of San Juan Island with Land Bank field assistant, Shauna Barrows, in this monthly installment of the San Juan Island Trails Committee Know Your Island Walk series.
Hear about the Land Bank’s efforts to conserve portions of Cady Mountain which boast high diversity wildflower areas, extensive Madrona and Douglas-fir forests, several intermittent streams, and serves as the key piece to providing trail connection from Cady Mountain Preserve to the National Historical Park’s English Camp and Roche Harbor Highlands trails system.
The trailhead is located off Three Corner Lake Road. Click here for a map. The trail is approximately 2 miles with moderate elevation gain.
Carpooling is encouraged. Brings snacks/water needed to make sure you have a enjoyable walk. For more information contact Tanja Williamson at 360-370-7655 or email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org.

Guided Walk at Watmough Bay Preserve Addition
2024-07-23 10:00 - 11:30, 2024-07-12 16:00 - 17:30
Join Conservation Land Bank staff for a guided walk at Watmough with a hike to the Land Bank’s addition to Watmough Bay Preserve.* Enjoy natural history highlights and learn about stewardship activities for the site.
Meet at Watmough Bay parking lot (outhouse available). Tour will depart on foot, be prepared to hike around 2-3 miles on variable terrain.
Group size will be limited to 15. Register with Tanja Williamson at tanjaw@sjclandbank.org or call 360-378-4402.
Please carpool. Be sure to dress for the weather.
*Please note: the Watmough Addition is not yet open for public access at this time.

Partner Event | Free Guided Poetry Sessions with Island Verse Literary Collective at Limekiln Preserve
2024-07-21 17:00 - 19:00
Join Island Verse Literary Collective for a two hour writing workshop at Limekiln Preserve on San Juan Island. Facilitators Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard will expand ecocultural literacy through the history, anima, and plants of sacred spaces on San Juan Island. Workshop participants will explore their personal narratives through a rare opportunity to learn about the oft-hidden narratives in nature that compose the story of our exquisite Island. Participants will have the option of publishing their writing in an anthology and sharing their work at an author showcase in the fall.
What to Expect:

Guided Writing Exercises: Each session will be led by Shauna Barrows and Danny Sherrard who will provide in-depth knowledge of San Juan Island’s ecology, step-by-step guidance for writing exercises, and creative feedback.
Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife in a peaceful, reflective setting.
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a serene and supportive environment, perfect for both beginner and experienced writers.

Additional Information:

Registration: Please register in advance to secure your spot at islandverse.org/event-list.
What to Bring: A notebook and preferred writing instrument(s). We recommend bringing a hat, bug spray, sunscreen, water bottle, snack, and a portable chair or blanket for your comfort.

Weather: In case of inclement weather, sessions may be canceled. Registered participants will be notified by email.

Partner Event | Free Guided Painting Session with Alchemy Art Center at Mount Grant Preserve
2024-07-19 09:00 - 11:00
Join Alchemy Art Center for a two-hour painting session at Mount Grant Preserve where participants of all skill levels are invited to connect with nature and create artworks inspired by our Islands’ landscapes.
What to Expect:

Guided Painting: Each session will be led by Maria Michaelson or Glenn Hendrick who will provide step-by-step guidance.
Natural Inspiration: Participants will enjoy inspiration from the vibrant flora and diverse wildlife.
Materials: Alchemy will have some supplies on hand (notebooks, watercolor pencils) however, participants are encouraged to bring any materials (paper, paint, drawing supplies, easels, etc) that they are excited to work with. Materials questions can be directed to Glenn at glenn@alchemyartcenter.com
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy a peaceful and supportive environment, perfect for both beginner and experienced painters.

Additional Information:

Registration required: Space is limited to 10 participants. Email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org to secure your spot.
What to Bring: We recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, water bottle, snack, and a portable chair or blanket for your comfort.
Weather: In case of inclement weather, sessions will be cancelled. Registered participants will be notified by email.

For questions contact Tanja Williamson at 360-370-7655 or email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org.

Monthly Commission Meeting
2024-07-19 08:30 - 11:15
The San Juan County Conservation Land Bank Commission will hold their regular monthly meeting 8:30am-11:15am via Zoom. The meeting will also be available for in person public attendance at the San Juan Island Grange located at 152 First Street North. The public is invited to attend.
Click HERE to download the agenda (includes Zoom meeting link) and meeting materials.

Partner Event | Nature Rx: A Health and Wellness Walking Series
2024-07-18 18:30 - 19:30
Get outside with Land Bank staff and Dr. Steven Hoang, DO, from PeaceHealth. Embrace the health benefits of walking in nature, connect with others, and rejuvenate your mind and body. Shut off the to-do list and take a step towards better health.
Meet in the parking area at Zylstra Lake Preserve. Please dress for the weather and bring water/snacks to insure a comfortable walk.*
Pre-registration is encouraged. Email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org or phone 360-370-7655 to register or for further information.
*NOTE: In case of inclement weather, sessions will be cancelled. Registered participants will be notified by email.

North Shore Property Guided Tour
2024-07-18 16:00 - 17:30, 2024-07-13 12:00 - 13:30, 2024-07-05 12:00 - 13:30
Land Bank staff will lead three tours monthly this summer. Click here to sign up for a scheduled tour. We will adjust the schedule as necessary based on demand. Please note: due to limited parking, tours will be capped at 10 vehicles. Carpooling and cycling encouraged.
The property is surrounded by private residences. This includes private beaches to the east and west and it is essential that the Land Bank and the public respect their privacy and property rights. We understand that there is strong community interest in this property, and we seek your support and cooperation while we plan for and prepare it for opening.

Blooms & Balance: Exploring Wildflowers, Weeds, and Biodiversity Conservation | Seasons of Turtleback Mountain Preserve Walk Series
2024-07-14 12:30 - 14:30
Join the Land Bank for an enlightening journey through the vibrant world of wildflowers and weeds, where we’ll uncover the role these plants play in supporting biodiversity.
Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or simply curious about the natural world, this walk offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of biodiversity conservation and the relationships between plants, animals, and their environment.
Pre-registration is required as space is limited. RSVP to Tanja Williamson at tanjaw@sjclandbank.org.

Volunteer Event | Wednesday Workparty at Watmough Bay Preserve Addition
2024-07-03 10:00 - 12:00
Help steward the Watmough Bay Preserve Addition! Take in the amazing views and learn about the preserve’s history while engaging in seasonal stewardship tasks with Land Bank staff.
Contact Tanja Williamson at 360-378-4402 or email tanjaw@sjclandbank.org for more information.

Partner Event | Know Your Island Walk - Fire Ecology at Westside Preserve
2024-06-29 10:00 - 13:00
Westside Preserve is the featured monthly walk for the San Juan Island Trails Committee Know Your Island Walk series.
There’s more to the Land Bank’s Westside Preserve than sensational sunsets. Discover nature’s resilience with Land Bank field assistant, Shauna Barrows, while exploring the Preserve’s trail system and interplay between fire and flora in the landscape.
Meet at Westside Preserve middle pullout. Limited parking available – carpooling is encouraged. For more information contact Tanja Williamson at tanjaw@sjclandbank.org or call 360-378-4402.

Public Tour | Crescent Beach Preserve Forest Management Update
2024-06-29 10:00 - 11:00
This walk is a follow up to Friday, June 28th’s forest management update meeting to provide an opportunity to review forest conditions and discuss the proposed actions to Crescent Beach Preserve while in the field.
The tour will begin at the easternmost parking lot trailhead on Crescent Beach Drive.

Public Meeting | Crescent Beach Preserve Forest Management Update
2024-06-28 17:00 - 18:00
Join Land Bank staff at the Orcas Island Library for an overview of preliminary plans for proposed forestry work at Crescent Beach Preserve as outlined in the recently updated Stewardship and Management Plan (SMP).
This will be followed by an informal question and answer session as well as a field tour Saturday, June 29th.
Click here to review the Crescent Beach Preserve SMP.
The meeting will also be available online via Zoom. See below for Zoom meeting information.
Zoom meeting information:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/89999552020
Meeting ID: 899 9955 2020
Phone: 253-205-0468

CANCELLED - Volunteer Event | Trail Construction
2024-06-27 10:00 - 15:00
Stewardship staff is putting the finishing touches on a new section of multi purpose trail between Beaverton Marsh Preserve to/from John O. Linde Community Park!
Email Tanja Williamson at tanjaw@sjclandbank.org to learn more or volunteer on the project.
