The proposal is to acquire an agricultural conservation easement on approximately 55 acres of productive farmland within the Useless Bay watershed on Whidbey Island. The property has been utilized for agricultural purposes since 1915, including both crops and pasture. The rotation of crops includes hay, corn, grains, potatoes, and garden crops.  Once protected from development, quality soils, a long growing season, and sufficient water supply will allow the farmland to remain productive into the future.

Adjacent to approximately 500 acres of protected wetlands at Deer Lagoon, the agricultural fields, wetlands, and riparian areas on the property are heavily used by wildlife and are a critical habitat ecological element within the watershed.

The property is at immediate risk of development as the Estate needs to sell to pay debts. It is located in an area highly valued for residential homes due to its outstanding views of wetlands, Useless Bay, and the Olympic Mountains as well as access to nearby protected areas, including Island County’s Deer Lagoon property, with its existing low-impact recreational opportunities. If a conservation easement is not acquired, the property will be sold and developed into up to six homesites. The easement will extinguish all but one development right ensuring that the farmland remains available for both agricultural and wildlife uses. 

Island County and Whidbey Camano Land Trust will co-hold the easement.