I recently attended the Port of Coupeville monthly meeting, an edifying exercise in parliamentary procedure, grass root democracy and heartfelt decision making by the three dedicated port commissioners. With the participation of concerned Whidbey Island citizens the future of the Greenbank Farm is being decided.

What most struck me was the connection and concern everyone in that room has for the farm, each within the realm of their own experience. It is truly a community resource, a many faceted jewel.

The Greenbank Farm offers a tangible sense of space, open space, a true treasure. Having lived in the east, I have come to appreciate the great sense of space we are fortunate to share in this corner of the world. Space where dogs run free, space to run along meandering paths, space to grow marvelous things, to raise chickens and goats, to offer food and beverage to those passing through. And art to soothe our souls and vistas and baby ducks and I could go on … simply walk the land and you will get it.

What I left the meeting with is that this improbable experiment in land use, the Greenbank Farm, is deemed worth the effort by all concerned. Taking the long view, this in itself may be enough to save it for future generations.

Jan Gunn
Greenbank