Richardson Marsh Preserve

DRAFT STEWARDSHIP AND MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR RICHARDSON MARSH PRESERVE

Overview
Richardson Marsh Preserve is located near the southwestern coast of Lopez Island, slightly inland of Davis Bay. Conservation of this 23.7-acre property protects roughly 18 acres of wetlands and the adjacent forested uplands.

The San Juan County Conservation Land Bank acquired the single parcel in partnership with the San Juan Preservation Trust in 2021. The Land Bank owns fee interest while the Preservation Trust holds a conservation easement. The Land Bank’s portion of the acquisition cost was $75,000 and its funding for the acquisition came from a voter-approved conservation area Real Estate Excise Tax (REET).

Significance
The preserve is part of a much larger coastal wetland, known locally as Richardson Marsh, that has long been a conservation priority. As a basin for the largest watershed on Lopez, the marsh is seasonally inundated and serves as a significant over-wintering site for waterfowl.

Public Access
Scenic views of the preserve and surrounding areas are visible from county roads. Currently the preserve is closed to the public. Public access is proposed to be limited to the uplands, where an existing old road leads to an overlook. Site tours and guided wildlife viewing walks are being offered in the interim.

Planning Process
A scoping meeting for the Richardson Marsh Preserve was held at the Lopez Center in 2023. Maps and materials were posted online. A draft Stewardship and Management Plan (SMP) is available for review and public comment. CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD PLAN.  Public comment is open March 2 through March 31, 2024. After the public comment period and any revisions, a final SMP will be considered for approval by the Land Bank Commission in spring 2024, with opportunity for additional public comment.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call 360-378-4402 or email sjclandbank@sjclandbank.org.