The Island County Back Country Horsemen are supporting the Whidbey Camano Land Trust in their effort to save the Trillium property, which is the largest parcel of privately owned forest on Whidbey Island, from future development. Although last logged in 1988, there are still stands of mature conifers, maples and alder, as well as regenerating forest, a lush native understory, wetlands and abundant wildlife. A network of trails and old logging roads throughout has long been used on an informal basis by local equestrians, bikers, dog walkers and birders.

In the last few years, the land was divided into 124 plots and approved for development by Island County. Recently the property went into foreclosure and the Land Trust has purchased an option to buy it, but has only until June 10, 2010 to raise the $4.2 million required to permanently protect the forest for passive recreational use, wildlife habitat and forest renewal. Failure to raise the capital will result in the property going back on the auction block and small parcels sold off for development.

The Back Country Horsemen strongly feel that preserving this forest wonderland for the use of current and future generations is of critical importance in sustaining the quality of rural life on Whidbey Island which makes it such an attractive place to live and visit. Therefore we urge all residents to support the acquisition of the Trillium property with donations to the Whidbey Camano Land Trust earmarked for this purchase. Opportunity knocks but once. Time is of the essence.

Sharon Vanderslice

Emily Brink, co-president Back Country Horsemen

Jan Crawford, co-president Back Country Horsemen