Twenty-nine years ago this summer, the community rallied to preserve the last large stand of rare lowland old-growth forest on South Whidbey Island. It was located across the street from South Whidbey State Park. After 15 years of effort by a broad cross section of local residents, the forest was added to the park and given a protected status within it.

In the process, state forest practices were forever changed and legislation was initiated that has become the Washington’s Land Transfer Program, which has preserved more than 100,000 acres of environmentally sensitive land.

Once again, the Whidbey community can give itself a big pat on the back. You’ve responded so vigorously to the sale that threatened the Wilbert Trail and the Ancient Cedar grove that Washington State Parks has indicated its intent to buy the 7.3 acres abutting the Classic U addition by covering half the costs or at least $200,000 to acquire this property.

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Board will meet on Aug. 24 and be asked to approve this plan. Please send your thanks and letters of support to Bill Koss, Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission POB 42650, Olympia, WA 98504. bill.koss@ parks.wa.gov.

Thanks are also due to the Whidbey Camano Land Trust, Senator Mary Margaret Haugen, Representatives Chris Strow and Hans Dunshee and Governor Gregoire’s office.

To make a donation to assist in covering the direct costs of the organizations, please make a donation either to Save The Trees, 5075 Zimmerman Road, Langley, WA 98260 or the Whidbey Camano Land Trust 765 Wonn Road, Barn C-201, Greenbank, WA 98253. Those wanting to make a larger donation to help acquire the property should contact the land trust.

The Classic U addition to the park is an icon in the community’s heart that demonstrates we are capable of working together no matter what our personal politics are to preserve some of our amazing Pacific Northwest natural heritage for all to enjoy and as a permanent legacy to those who will follow.

Sue Ellen White

Save The Trees:

savethetrees@whidbey.com.