The proposal is for Island County and the Land Trust to acquire and co-hold a conservation easement on 83 acres of prime farmland actively farmed for over 155 years and highly productive for a wide variety of crops. Located in Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve on Whidbey Island, the Property lies on the south boundary of the historic Town of Coupeville, the second oldest town in Washington, and provides the historic agricultural context for both the Town and Reserve.

Acquisition will protect one of the most productive and fertile agricultural properties in Island County and help ensure the future viability of agriculture in Ebey’s Reserve. The economic productivity is excellent with crops including but not limited to alfalfa, wheat, barley, corn, numerous seed crops and produce. The corn silage has the highest food value in the region.  The Property is an unprotected “hole” in the prairie, and thus is an exceedingly critical connection between a major farm and hundreds of acres of farmland protected by conservation easements held by the National Park Service.

The four parcels are highly sought after for residential development due to their location adjacent to Coupeville with sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet, the Olympic Mountains, and Ebey’s Reserve farmlands that are permanently protected by conservation easements. The owners are receiving countless purchase offers by realtors and private individuals due to its uniqueness - the threat is real and imminent.