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HomeMy WebLinkAbout019 10Acit� (Qf 1s�iu STATE OF WASHINGTON County of Jefferson Dedication of Conservation Futures Funds to the } Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition Project } as Authorized by 84.34 RCW and in Accordance } RESOLUTION NO. 19 -10 with Jefferson County Code Section 3.08.030(7) } to Provide a System of Public Open Spaces } WHEREAS, conservation futures tax levy collections, authorized under RCW 84.34.230 are an important means of retaining community character and accomplishing open space policies and objectives of the Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan that encourage the coordinated acquisition of key open space lands for long -term protection; and WHEREAS. Jefferson County is authorized by RCW 84.34.2 10 and 84.34.220 to acquire open space land, agricultural and timber lands, as defined in RCW 84.34.220; and WHEREAS, the Conservation Futures Citizen Oversight Committee has reviewed project applications for 2010 and made its funding recommendations to the Board of County Commissioners in accordance with Ordinance No. 06- 0708 -02; and WHEREAS, under the provisions of the Jefferson County Conservation Futures Program, the Jefferson Land Trust, as project applicant and sponsor, requests funding towards the protection of 160 acres of vacant land in Sec. 27, T. 29N, R. 2W with Assessor's Parcel Number 902272000 through fee - simple acquisition; and WHEREAS, the County retains enough developable land to accommodate the Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition Project as well as the housing and employment growth that it is expected to receive, thus satisfying the requirements of Chapter 449, Laws of 2005; and WHEREAS, Jefferson County considers it in the best public interest to contribute to this open space project. NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that: Jefferson County hereby dedicates up to $ 61, 34& - no in conservation futures funds for acquisition expenses contingent on a matching contribution of no less than the amount of conservation futures funds requested. Resolution No. 19= 1n re: Dedication of Conservation Futures Funds to the Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition Project as Authorized by 84.34 RCW and in Accordance to Provide a System of Public Open Spaces with Jefferson County Code Section 3.08.030(7) 2. This dedication of funding may be nullified if a submittal for reimbursement, accompanied by documentation of matching funds sufficient to complete the acquisition, is not received from the sponsor within three years of the signing of this resolution. APPROWDAND- ADOPTED this l �i day of �- �— , 2010 in Port Townsend, r s Washiog,ton!, T. r SEA;I i ` • , y 1,` '0 4 t N ATTEST:- rin Lundgren Deputy Clerk of the Board JEFFERSON COUNTY J n Au3tin, Member mss. 2010 Jefferson County Conservation Futures Program t� r, ~; Property Acquisition and/or ��49 vi Operations and Maintenance Project Application Please complete the following application in its entirety. Unless directed otherwise, use as much space as needed to answer each question. Incomplete applications will not be accepted for consideration. 1. Project Title: Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition 2. Conservation Futures Acquisition Request: $63,394.00 3. Conservation Futures O &M Request: 0 4. Please indicate the type of interest contemplated in the acquisition process. Warranty Deed _ Easement X Other (Please describe below.) In whose name will the property title be held after acquisition? Jefferson County will hold title if the seller is interested in selling fee simple interest only and a conservation easement will be held by JILT on the County owned land. If the landowner chooses to maintain ownership, JILT will hold the conservation easement. 5. Applicant Information Name of Applicant or Organization: Jefferson Land Trust Contact: Sarah Spaeth Title: Executive Director Address: 1033 Lawrence Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368 Phone: (360) 379 -9501, Fax: (360) 379 -9897 Email: sspaeth @saveland.org 6. Sponsor Information: (if different than applicant) Organization Name: Contact: Title: Address: Phone: O ext. _ Fax: L) ext. Email: This application was approved by the sponsor's legally responsible body (e.g., board, council, etc.) in public meeting on February 16, 2010. http: / /www.co.jefferson. wa. us/ commissioners /Conservationiconservation.asp 7. Site Location Street Address or Description of Location: Margaret Ruck property off West Uncas Road, Jefferson County, WA Driving Directions from Port Townsend: The project area is located near the junction of Hwy 101 and State Route 20, at the head of Discovery Bay. From the Discovery Bay store, turn South off of 101 onto West Uncas Road and follow to 922 W. Uncas Road. This is the driveway to the Reseck residence and the legal access easement onto the Ruck property. Section: 27, Township: 29North, Range: 2West Assessor's Parcel Number: 902 272 000 8. EXISTING CONDITIONS New Site: Yes X No Addition to Existing Site: Yes No X Total Project Acreage (if different): (Designated) 1:80 Existing Structures /Facilities: none Number of Parcels: one Acres to Be Acquired: approximately160 Current Zoning: 8300 — Forest Land Any current covenants, easements or restrictions on land use: Transmission Line Easement (Bonneville Power Line) encumbers a strip of land 225 feet in width, approximately 13 acres. Current Use: vacant land, used for recreation and forestry Waterfront (name of body of'water): not applicable Shoreline (linear feet): approximately 1 mile of Salmon Creek runs through property Owner Tidelands /Shorelands: not applicable 9. Current Property Owner _X_ is is not a willing seller. 10. In one -half page or less, provide a summary description of the project, the match, overarching goal, and three top objectives. Jefferson Land Trust (JLT) is applying for Conservation Futures grant funds for the permanent protection of important riparian habitat in the Salmon Creek watershed, located at the head of Discovery Bay. Jefferson Land Trust will permanently protect approximately 160 acres and nearly 1 mile of riparian habitat on Salmon Creek for summer chum, other salmon species and wildlife through fee simple acquisition by Jefferson County and /or conservation easement protection of the Ruck family property. The Salmon and Snow Creek Estuary is the most intact of its type on the Strait of Juan de Fuca and is the unquestioned stronghold of the ESA listed Strait of Juan de Fuca summer chum salmon. This project continues the successful protection and restoration efforts conducted by Chumsortium partners since http:! /www.co.jefferson.wa.us/ commissioners /Conservation /c on servati on. asp 2001. The project fits well with the Hood Canal Coordinating Council Strategy for Salmon Recovery. Critical habitat acquisition is number one on their sequenced project lists for both Salmon and Snow Creek watersheds. This project aims to protect a parcel that was identified through previous protection efforts by Chumsortium partners, and is adjacent to over 360 acres protected with conservation easements and fee simple acquisitions acquired through a 2001 Salmon Recovery Funding Board (SRFB) grant and US Fish and Wildlife Department funding. In December 2009, JLT was awarded a $359,231.00 SRFB grant for the Ruck property that will be used as a match for acquisition and administrative costs. The three top objectives for this project are: 1) Acquire high priority threatened property from willing seller 2) Permanently protect the property as wild riparian salmon habitat 3) Leverage SRFB funds through Conservation Futures Funding 11. Estimate the total site acquisition costs below, including the cost for the entire property or property right, even if Conservation Futures funds will only cover a portion of that total cost. In the case of projects involving multiple acquisitions, please break out appraisals and estimated acquisition costs by parcel. Total Estimated Acquisition Cost: $380,000 Total Estimated Acquisition- related Cost (see Eligibility Checklist): $43,625 — includes appraisal and review, baseline, survey, title and project management Total Operation and Maintenance Cost: Total Project Acquisition Cost: $422,625 Basis for Estimate (include general description of operation and maintenance work to be performed, task list with itemized budget, and anticipated schedule for completion of work): The basis for the CFF request is to provide the required 15% match for the recently approved SRFB grant. The estimate of the current value of the property was made by reviewing an appraisal that was conducted in 2004 for the same property, the former listing price and the current assessed value of the property. A new appraisal has been initiated and the appraisal, as well as a review will help the landowner decide whether selling the property or a conservation easement is their preferred strategy. 12a. Sponsor or other organizations _X—will _will not contribute to acquisition of proposed site. b. If applicable, please describe below how contributions from groups or agencies will reduce the need to use Conservation Futures program funds. WA Recreation and Conservation Office will provide $359,231 of SRFB grant funds providing more than the necessary match for the CFF grant. We are applying for CFF funds for 15% of the total acquisition costs presuming there will be fee simple acquisition by Jefferson County with an easement held by JLT. If the landowner prefers to sell a conservation easement only, and http: / /www.co. Jefferson. wa. us/ cmnmissioners /Conservation/conservation .asp continues to retain ownership of the property, JLT will only invoice for 15% of the total project costs associated with acquisition of a conservation easement, as per CFF match requirements. c. Matching Fund Estimate Conservation Futures Funds Requested Matching Funds /Resources Total Project Acquisition Cost d. Source of matching funds /resources _SRFB Amount of Contribution contribution approved? $359,231_ Yes X No $ Yes No S Yes No S Yes No Amount Percentage $ 63,394 15% $359,231 85% $422,625 100% If not, Contribution If not, when? available now? when? Yes X No Yes No Yes No Yes No NOTE: Matching funds are strongly recommended and a higher rating will be assigned to those projects that can guarantee additional resources for acquisition. Donation of property or a property right will be considered as a matching resource. Donation of resources for on -going maintenance or stewardship will not be considered as a match. 13a.Sponsoring agency X_is _is not prepared to provide long -term stewardship (maintenance, up -keep, etc.) for the proposed project site. Jefferson Land Trust anticipates a stewardship program of annual monitoring to insure that the terms of the easement are honored, that no trash has accumulated, and that no noxious weeds have invaded the property. Jefferson Land Trust Staff and trained community volunteers will conduct monitoring, and maintenance efforts. The Land Trust relies on trained professionals, including habitat biologists, foresters and others as appropriate. This project is within the project area in which Chumsortium partners have been working for a number of years. At this time there are no restoration activities planned for this property, however, technical aspects of restoration and enhancement of the project will be guided by Chumsortium agencies such as Jefferson County Conservation District, WA Department of Fish and Wildlife and North Olympic Salmon Coalition. b. Describe any existing programs or future plans for stewardship of the property, including the nature and extent of the commitment of resources to carry out the stewardship plan. The Land Trust will conduct stewardship, monitoring and maintenance of the property along with the other parcels in the Salmon Creek watershed that are protected with conservation easements. The Land Trust's stewardship program includes annual monitoring (at least) of protected properties and easements, upkeep and maintenance (trash removal, signage, invasive plant control) and restoration efforts (tree planting, trail building, etc.) Jefferson Land Trust currently stewards over 8300 acres in Jefferson County. http:i /www.co.jefferson. wa. us /commissioners /Conservation /conservation, asp 14. Describe the sponsoring agency's previous or on -going stewardship experience. The Land Trust is the only local organization or agency that has a monitoring and stewardship program for conservation easements and preserved properties, developed with the guidance of The Land Trust Alliance and utilized effectively for 20 years. The Land Trust has some funds set aside for long term monitoring and stewardship of protected properties, and will be building that fund over time. Water quality monitoring, habitat restoration and enhancement would be performed by partner organizations with more technical expertise. 15. Has the sponsor and /or applicant of this project been involved in other projects previously approved for Conservation Futures funding? a. No, neither the sponsor nor applicant has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures funds. b._X_Yes, the sponsor and /or applicant for this project has been involved in a project previously approved for Conservation Futures funds. Please provide details: Jefferson Land Trust has sponsored numerous applications that have received Conservation Futures funds. These projects include: Sunfield Farm, 2003; Quimper Wildlife Corridor, 2004; East Tarboo Creek Conservation Project, 2005, Tamanowas Rock Phase 1, 2006; the Winona Buffer Project, 2006, Glendale Farm, 2007; Finnriver Farm, 2008; Quimper Wildlife Corridor, 2009, and Brown Dairy, 2009. 16a. Property X_can _cannot feasibly be acquired in a timely fashion with available resources. b. Necessary commitments and agreements _are _X are not in place. c. All parties _are _X—are not in agreement on the cost of acquisition. ff "not" to any ofthe above, please explain below. Landowner is in the process of negotiation with JILT for a fee simple or conservation easement acquisition. The appraisal process will inform the landowner's decision. 17. The proposed acquisition X_is specifically identified in an adopted open space, conservation, or resource preservation program or plan, or community conservation effort. Please describe below, including the site's importance to the plan. Please provide a copy of the plan with the application. _complements an adopted open space or conservation plan, but is not specifically identified. Please describe below, and describe how the proposed acquisition is consistent with the plan. _is a stand -alone project. The Ruck property is located in the Discovery Bay project area that has been the focus of protection and restoration efforts on the past of Chumsortium partners since 2000 and is identified in the Summer Salmon Chum Recovery Plan which can be located at the following website. - http: / /www. nwr. noaa.gov /Salmon- Recovery - Planning/ Recovery- Domains /Puget- Sound /HC- Recovery-Plan.cfm In addition, the Salmon Creek watershed is identified on the Jefferson County's Comprehensive Plan map as Parks, Recreation Areas, Conservation Easements and Areas for Future Cooperative Preservation Efforts. http: / /www.co.jefferson .wa.us /idms /pdfs /parks9g.pdf http: / /www.co.jefferson.wa, us/ commissioners /Conservation/conservation.asp Jefferson Land Trust's newly adopted conservation plan for Jefferson County, prepared with the input of many community members, also specifically identifies the Salmon Creek watershed and Discovery Bay Estuary. A draft of the plan has been submitted with this application, and the final plan will be located on the JLT website :v__ within the next month. 18. List the important milestones for this project. Milestones are to complete the appraisal and landowner negotiations to determine the best protection option and secure Conservation Futures grant funds to help leverage SRFB funds for the project area. 19. Conservation Opportunity or Threat: a. The proposed acquisition site X_does _does not provide a conservation or preservation opportunity which would otherwise be lost or threatened. b. If applicable, please carefully describe the nature and immediacy of the opportunity or threat, and any unique qualities about the site. The landowner is interested in working with JLT at this time and wishes to move forward with a protection plan. 20. Describe the physical characteristics of the site that is proposed for acquisition with Conservation Futures Program funds including: vegetation, topography, surrounding land use, and relationship to parks, trails, and open space. Salmon Creek watershed is in the rainshadow of the Olympic Mountains and enters into Discovery Bay. The Ruck parcel is approximately 160 acres with nearly one mile of mainstem Salmon Creek riparian habitat and several tributaries that enter into the mainstem. The relatively steep creek valley flows from west to east through the length of the Ruck property, and most of the valley and uplands include mature forest habitat, characterized by mixed native forest species, with the exception of the powerline easement that crosses Salmon Creek. Approximately 70 acres have been determined to be riparian buffer. The upland forest is currently being managed for commercial timber harvest and portions were harvested within the last 20 years. Over 360 acres of critical riparian, estuarine and wetland habitat and agricultural lands adjacent and downstream to the Ruck property are permanently protected through WDFW fee ownership and conservation easements with Jefferson Land Trust. The property is slightly downstream from the US Forest Service boundary, providing a protected aquatic and riparian corridor for many imperiled species and habitats, including summer chum salmon and steelhead. This portion of Salmon Creek habitat is relatively pristine mature forest that does not need significant restoration. We understand that the Pacific Northwest Trail runs through or nearby the property. The Ruck property is adjacent to commercial forestland owned by Pope Resource holdings on the north, west and south sides. hup: / /www.co.jefferson.wa- us/ commissioners /Conservation /conservation. asp 21. The proposed acquisition X_ provides habitat for State of Washington Priority Habitat or Federal Threatened, Endangered, or Sensitive Species _X_ provides habitat for a variety of native flora or fauna species. _X_ contributes to an existing or future wildlife corridor or migration route. If affirmative in any, of the above, please describe below, and cite or provide documentation of species use. Anticipated results of the project include perpetual protection of this habitat which will benefit fresh water life stages of summer chum salmon (threatened and one of only 8 extant subpopulations remaining today), Coho salmon and cutthroat trout utilizing Salmon Creeks. Other species benefiting from protected water quality from this high quality habitat include a native Olympia oyster population, white sturgeon, spawning herring, surf smelt and sand lance. Puget Sound chinook salmon from other systems likely use the estuary. The forested habitat also provides habit for multiple wildlife species. 22a. Describe the extent and nature of current and planned agricultural use of the proposed acquisition, including any anticipated changes to that use once the property, or property right, is acquired with Conservation Futures funds. There are no planned agricultural uses. b. Describe any participation by current property owner in any other agricultural land conservation programs, including the program and nature of the involvement. Not applicable 23. Describe the use planned for the site, any development plans after acquisition, characteristics of the site which demonstrate that it is well- suited to the proposed use, and plans for any habitable buildings currently on the site. There is no development plan associated with the fee simple acquisition but if the landowner decides to retain ownership and a conservation easement proves to be the best protection tool then the landowner will likely choose to retain one building envelope. 24a. Proposed acquisition site and any subsequent planned passive development (as described above) _X_is _is not part of a larger project. b. If applicable, describe how the site relates to the larger project, and whether the project has a plan, schedule and funding dedicated to its completion. Jefferson Land Trust and Chumsortium partners, Hood Canal Coordinating Council, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, North Olympic Salmon Coalition and Jefferson County Conservation District, have been working together since 2000 in the Salmon and Snow Creek Estuary and lower mainstem area and have coordinated efforts to identify the parcels for acquisition. This project has been on a map of habitat properties since 2001. In 2005 the Chumsortium partners adopted the Summer Chum Salmon Recovery Plan which is to recover and obtain delisting of the summer -timed chum salmon populations in Hood Canal and the eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca watershed, including restoration of populations in watersheds where summer chum have been extirpated. This recovery plan adopts the overall goal presented in the Summer httpJ/www.co.jefferson.wa.us /commissioners /Conservation /conservation.asp Chum Salmon Conservation Initiative ( SCSCI). The SCSCI (WDFW and PNPTT 2000) states the goal as: "To protect, restore and enhance the productivity, production and diversity of Hood Canal summer chum salmon and their ecosystems to provide surplus production sufficient to allow future directed and incidental harvests of summer chum salmon. "The Summer Chum Salmon Recovery Plan seeks to maintain current population structure and distribution of summer chum and restore distribution in previously occupied areas within the species native range. In addition, the project partners worked together to create a management plan for the project area that includes restoration recommendations, public access considerations and other management considerations. Additional acquisitions are also planned for the project area in keeping with the goal of protecting and restoring important riparian and estuarine habitat. 25. Describe how the proposed acquisition benefits primarily a _local area _X _broad county area including the area served, the nature of the benefit, the jurisdictions involved, and the populations served. The proposed acquisition benefits a broad county area and Washington State priorities by protecting critical habitat for endangered salmon species of this area. 26. Describe the educational or interpretive opportunities that exist for providing public access, educational or interpretive displays (signage, kiosks, etc.) on the proposed site, including any plans to provide those improvements and any plans for public accessibility. The property acquisition would provide passive recreational uses and continued opportunity for public access to the Pacific Northwest Trail. If the landowner chooses.to retain ownership, then public access would not likely be allowed, except possibly for scientific and educational purposes. 27. The proposed acquisition _ includes historic or culturally significant resources and _ is registered with the National Register of Historic Places, or an equivalent program. _ is recognized locally has having historic or cultural resources. _ is adjacent to and provides a buffer for a historic or cultural site. if affirmative in any of the above, please describe below, and cite or provide documentation of the historical or cultural resources. Not applicable 28a. Describe the extent and nature of current and planned silvicultural use of the proposed acquisition. Please cite or provide documentation of existing or planned silvicultural activities includingforest rnanagementplan ( s). Very selective thinning in the upland areas may be possible if fee simple acquisition occurs. This forest management would be conducted according to an approved management plan and may provide the County and Jefferson Land Trust with some funds for stewardship. Should the current landowner retain the property with protection through a conservation easement, they may choose to harvest timber according to an approved forest management plan. b. Describe any participation by current property owner in silviculture conservation programs, including the program and nature of the involvement. No current plans in place- http://www.coj efferson.wa. us/comi n issioners/Conservation 1conservation.asp 9 29. Sponsors of applications that are approved for funding by the Board of County Commissioners are required to submit a brief progress report by October 30 every year for three years after the award is approved, or three years after the acquisition funds are disbursed to the applicant, whichever is later. The progress report must address any changes in the project focus or purpose, progress in obtaining matching funding, and stewardship and maintenance. Sponsors receiving O &M funds will also submit an annual report for each year that O &M funds are expended. The Committee will use the information to develop a project "report card" that will be submitted annually to the Board of County Commissioners. If this application is approved for funding, I understand the sponsor is required to submit progress reports for three years and for any year in which O &M funds are expended. it> Initials -3 i 11C Date 30. If, three years after the date funding is approved by the Board of County Commissioners, the applicants have not obtained the required matching funds, the Committee may request the Board of County Commissioners to nullify their approval of funds, and may require the project to re- apply. If this application is approved for funding, I understand that we may be required to re- submit the application if the project sponsor does not obtain the necessary matching funding within three years. C; Initials Date 31. Are there any critical dates, e.g, grant deadlines, for your project that the Committee should know about? Please list the dates and explain their importance. Land owner is eager to reach an agreement on the best protection tool as soon as possible, and matching funds are in place. An appraisal is to be completed in May 2010. The State Salmon Recovery Board Funding is available through 2011. httpJ /www.co.jcfferson.wa.us /commissioners /conservation /conservation.asp 10 SALMON CREEK RIPARIAN ACQUISITION CONSERVATION FUTURES FUNDS ILLUSTRATIONS - 2010 Salmon Creek Riparian Looking NW from powerline a.z r;t a 9 y S� Ok IIN 1 J:; y ar.i�T5 , v_ .e Lower Salmon Creek on Ruck property �•' Sample flora in riparian area TO: SARAH SPAETH, DIRECTOR JEFFERSON COUNTY LAND TRUST 9 MM&IIII 9 IWA N M311140 RE: PARCEL # 902272000; INVESTIGATION INTO A PROPOSED CONSERVATION EASEMENT AND /OR OUTRIGHT SALE OF PROPERTY AND ONLY AND INVESTIGATION AT THIS TIMER DATE: 3/1/2010 Hi Sarah: I understand that the Jefferson county Land Trust is applying to the Jefferson County Futures fund for the purpose of proposing a land easement and /or outright purchase of our parcel, #902272000. I am aware that this process is ongoing, have approved its investigation (since early last summer 2009) of a conservation easement or outright ownership, by the Jefferson county Land trust if the terms of such a deal would be of financial benefit to my mother, Margaret L. Ruck (a fiduciary obligation which as the trustee for her estate I feel is incumbent upon me to investigate) and realize that by participating in and allowing this process to move forward neither my mother's trust or myself have no liability in or have made no promises to the Jefferson county Land trust, other than to listen to their proposal. Upon receipt of said proposal we shall take a close look at the cost and benefits of proceeding with such a sale or easement grant and at our own pace and with no pressure or timeline applied, may make a decision to move in another direction than remaining the timber farm growers that this property has provided our family since the late 1930's. I want to reiterate that by proceeding with this process, we are in no way bound to any costs, and /or expenses for this process and are held harmless from any personal injury that may occur to anyone working with or for the Land trust when visiting our parcel (and visitation rights will be granted on a visit by visit basis only after the Land trust has received my personal okay that they or anyone affiliated with their organization, may enter and or traverse our property). Failure to accommodate the terms of visitation, stated above, will terminate any further allowance for the Land trust or any of its affiliates to enter the parcel without being subject to trespassing charges, and we will no longer be involved in the current process. Respectfully, Frank J. Ruck TTEE. For "The Margaret L. Ruck dec of trust" Parcel Tax History - Home County Info Departinents Search Valuation Information for Parcel Number: Assessed Fair Market Value Improvements: Improved Land: t; Unimproved Land s,3571- 11 Taxable Value r .. Current and Prior Year Taxes Property Sales Information Affidavit Number: 104539 Legal Document Description: :1 Sales Amount: s Sales Code: Taxes Paid Port Ludlow Drainage or Clean Water Assessment Year Tax Amount Taxes Paid Not applicable for this Parcel Property Transactions Affidavit Number: 104539 Affidavit Number: 71380 MOTE. This is for informational use only. Do not pay taxes based off this information. Please refer to your current tax statement or contact the Treasurer's office at (360)385 -9150 Page I df 1 http: / /wwtiv.co.jefferson.wa.usl assessors /parcellvaluationdetail .asp ? Parcel_no = 902272000 2/16/2010 r 4 etrickland ischman& oss, Inc. REAL ESTATE APPRAISERS & CONSUITANIS February 12, 2004 Sarah Spaeth JEFFERSON LAND TRUST P.O. Box 1610 Port Townsend, WA 98368 Re: The Salmon Creek Property Conservation Easement Diminution Off West Uncas Road Jefferson County, WA SHH File 6840 -04 Dear Ms. Spaeth: We have completed an appraisal relevant to the above referenced property as requested. The property is legally described within this report. The report is prepared with the intent to be in accordance with the current Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP), as adopted by the Appraisal Foundation. The following appraisal has been presented in a summary format. In the process of conservation easement valuation, the effective date of appraisal is the easement recording date. The Department of the Treasury, Internal Revenue Service issues instructions for Form 8283, relevant to non -cash charitable contributions. This instruction guide states "The appraisal must be made not earlier than 60 days before the date you contribute the property. " In this case, the conservation easement has not yet been formally grant deeded. It is specifically assumed that the deed will be granted within 60 days of the date of appraisal. 6419 lakewmd Drive West Tacoma, Washtrigton 98467 Tacoma (253) 564 -3230 Fax (253) 564 -3143 The estimate of value is based on an appraisal date of January 26, 2004, the date of inspection. The property was appraised as a whole, owned in fee simple and unencumbered, prior to the placement of the easement, and the property was also Nappraised subject to the stated requirements of the proposed conservation easement in perpetuity. In order to arrive at a diminution in value, we have relied on information provided within the Preliminary Outline for the conservation easement, as provided by the client, augmented by conversations with the property owners' representative, Barbara Saunders (360- 379 -4569) and Sarah Spaeth of the Jefferson Land Trust (360- 379 - 9501), the beneficiary of the proposed conservation easement. It is specifically assumed that the conservation easement in its final form and language will grant specifically the permitted and prohibited uses as related to the appraisers by the property owner. A copy of the IPreliminary Outline for the conservation easement is included in the Addenda The subject property contains a site area of 156.00 acres. The proposed conservation easement will encumber a strip of land 250 feet wide along each side of Salmon Creek and 50 feet along both sides of four identified tributaries of Salmon Creek, to contain a total encumbered area of 70.00 acres. Further, the remainder of the property will also be subject to development and use restrictions. Thus, the proposed conservation easement will impact the entire property. The area of the property that will be impacted by the proposed setback easement is described in the outline for the conservation easement as Protected Area A (Riparian Habitat Conservation Zone), while the remainder of the property is described as Protected Area B (Managed Forest). The purpose of the conservation easement is to permanently protect and enhance summer chum salmon habitat, as well as other salmonids and wildlife habitat. Protected Area A will be subject to more severe restrictions than ■ Protected Area B. The proposed conservation easement will limit development to one homesite in a designated two to four acre area within Protected Area B. The property owner will retain the right to commercially harvest timber within Protected Area B, subject to a sustainable harvest management plan. Further, the owner will retain the right to conduct restoration activities on Salmon Creek and in Protected Area B. Prohibited activities applicable to the entire site under the proposed conservation easement include subdivision, further development beyond the single homesite, mining (including soil, peat, rock, and gravel), I r r 0 The appraisal report that follows summarizes the assignment, describes the area and the subject property, and explains the valuation techniques and reasoning leading to the final opinion of the diminution in value. As in the case of any narrative appraisal, your attention is directed to the Assumptions and Limiting Conditions which are included in the accompanying report. aI \Respectfully submitted, a 4C. Stri land, MAI, SRA State of Washington Certification 2701 1 - 1 100429 Chad C. Johns , Associate .�J a diking and damming, and the use of herbicides and pesticides throughout the entire property. Additional restrictions relevant to Protected Area A (Riparian Habitat Conservation Zone) includes the prohibition of tree cutting or timber harvesting. We were provided with a Timber Evaluation and Appraisal prepared by Earl Kong (360- 271 -4779) with Forestech, LLC. According to the Timber Evaluation and Appraisal, the property does not contain any merchantable timber. However, the property subsequent to the placement of the proposed conservation easement includes reproduction timber with an estimated present value of approximately $33,884. Since this timber is premerchantable, no additional value was attributed to the subject's timber, but rather, it is included in our estimated value of the subject's underlying land. A copy of the Timber Evaluation and Appraisal is included in the Addenda of this report, and by reference is considered to be incorporated into and a part of this appraisal. The proposed conservation easement removes the ability of the property owner to control the bundle of rights associated with the ownership of a similar property that is not encumbered. In addition, the property owner is still responsible for the liabilities and ownership burdens associated with owning a property. Thus, the diminution in value as a result of the proposed Deed of Conservation Easement, effective as of January 26, 2004, is as follows: Value of property prior to the conservation easement $325,000 Value of property subsequent to the conservation easement (295,000) Diminution in value as a result of the acquisition $30,000 Thus, the diminution in the value as a result of the conservation easement, effective as of January 26, 2004 is: THIRTY THOUSAND DOLLARS $30,000 Im flt{ F 1N I q"C s r L I kkq Im flt{ F 1N I q"C s r L I 3 a liO O 1 O r 7 6 J O O O O N � U N C O � to � � N r _r Q R O m L 3 O C A D C R C O E i^^ n v NN� L.I. d N t a w v 'o L a F- d N 0 U T r a) CL O a` c d E a) W la W c O 1° -o Z c a) 0 N c O L) U U N I m t N E _O 3 CL a z 0 0 r CL m 0 O O N T U N a T C 0 0 U c 0 `m N F 19 Jefferson Land Trust RESOLUTION February 16, 2010 WHEREAS, Jefferson Land Trust is submitting two applications for 2010 Conservation Futures Funding; the projects are Tamanous Rock and Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition, and WHEREAS, for the last few years, Jefferson Land Trust has worked in partnership with the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe, the Port Gamble S'Klallam Tribe, Jefferson County, Washington State Parks, and numerous community members to protect the unique geological, cultural and biological feature known as Tamanous Rock, and WHEREAS tribal members, naturalists and scientists and community members have recommended that the area that includes Tamanous Rock and adjacent acreage around the Rock he protected to create a sanctuary for humans and wildlife, and WHEREAS, this important community asset will require stewardship in perpetuity, to include annual monitoring, maintenance and management, WHEREAS, for applicants who submit more than one request for funding are required by Conservation Futures Funding Program to rank applications by highest priority, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED that the Board of Directors of Jefferson Land Trust has agreed that Tamanous Rock is the highest priority for 2010 Conservation Futures Funding. The next highest priority is funding for the Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition for which Jefferson Land Trust is requesting Conservation Futures Funding to match the Salmon Recovery Funding Board Grant already secured. The Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition represents a collaborative effort with Chumsortium partners to preserve this important salmon habitat. Signed this day 1 � of �— 6, 2010 Owen Fairbank, President, Board of Directors Jefferson Land Trust INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE DISTRICT DIRECTOR 2 CUPANIA CIRCLE - MONTEREY PARK, CA 91755 -7406 Date: MAY 0 3 1994 JEFFERSON LAND TRUST C/O DOUG MASON PRES PO BOX 1610. PORT TOWNSEND, WA 98368 -0109 Dear Applicant: DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY Employer Identification Number: 91- 1465078 Case Number: 954109002 Contact Person: TYRONE THOMAS Contact Telephone Number: (213) 894 -2289 Our Letter Dated: May 08, 1990 Addendum Applies: No This modifies our letter of the above date in which we stated that you would be treated as an organization that is not a private foundation until the expiration of your advance ruling period. Your exempt status under section 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code as an organization described in section 501(c)(3) is still in effect. Based. on the information you submitted, we have determined that you are not a private foundation within the meaning of section 509(a) of the Code because you are an organization of the type described in section 509(a)(1) and 170 (b) (1) (A) (vi) . Grantors and contributors may rely on this determination unless the Internal Revenue Service publishes notice to the contrary. However, if you lose your section 509(a)(1) status, a grantor-or contributor may not rely on this determination if he or she was in part responsible for, or was aware of, the act or failure to act, or the substantial or material change on the part of the organization that resulted in your loss of such status, or if he or she acquired knowledge that the Internal Revenue Service had given notice that you would no longer be classified as a section 509(a) (1) organization. If we have indicated in the heading of this letter that an addendum applies, the addendum enclosed is an integral part of this letter. Because this letter could help resolve any questions about your private foundation status, please keep it in your permanent records. If you have any questions, please contact the person whose name and telephone number are shown above. Sincerely yours, Richa eOroscoV District Director Letter 1050 (DO /CG) Jefferson Land Trust Operating Budget 2010 2010 Proposed Budget Notes !Ordinary IncomelBxpense — Income i !- ��yy,,,� 44^^LLyy�kuy�wy h �X'14W91�'lw�i5�r •••� [ .,a�iL t i � I.._.. r"- .'"«...W... �B. ..: - Ga�"d' it !9�1 P��v 4070 Unrestricted Grards _ 500.00 _ 4020 unrestricted Caporal Campaigns r Fund for JLT opportunities not specified, comenlly one individual I _ _ 4021 Opportunity Fund _ 5,000.00 donates to this fund every year _ _. — —_ 1 14022 ar Ouimp Opportunity Funtl ) 0 001Aocount no longer used for OWC, see acccunt 4524 1 .� ota nrest ct Capital am ns 4030 Unrestricted Donations X4031 .Donated Land 1. 00.00 Land has been donated every year, typically in the O WC _. _ _._. __. 4032 - Donated Services _ - -- __._. Total 4030 - Unrestricted Donations 1,000.00 Unrestricted Stewardship(Lorg Temt) .4040 j 14047 New Contributions 6, 000.001 Contribution from Finn River ($4,0W) and Brown Dairy ($4,000) i Total4 10 Unne iStewardship 600000 t t � I 4060 Value Conservation Eein menu 000 ' I Total 4000 Unrestricted US Income ! 1450000 v,Ii€. } a7 ':.•I+,: +C_`' 3u_6'.;:_,t.s— _s,4.11'+�Ii �, j'f hl - 14570-Restricted LerW Acquit; Grerlta '.. Reimburseable grant income for expenses other than payroll, sae 14512- State Grant Salmon Habitat 48,650.Wbudget Gmntwnrksheet for details Reimburseable grant insane for expenses other than payroll see 14514- State Grant _! 104, 075.00''x, budget Grant worksheet for details Id516- Federal Grant '�. 0 a Miscellaneous grant Tota14510 Restricted Wntl ACquis Grande_ _ _ 152,725.00 X4520 Restricted Capital CampaignsI ___f..._.1g521- Campaign Contdbu[iorrs '. 000! Lq_Ouimper Wildlife Corridor ' 15,000.00jCoMinuation of Quimper Wildlife Condor campaign Total 4620 - Restricted Capital Campaigns i 15,000 00 14540 Restricted Stewardship Funds '.. �.. ___t _4541 N ew Cunlnbutrorra 0.00 ''. i,• Bulis Fund - donor mstriCed fund, interest must be used for Solis 1542 - Interest Income 2,1x10.00 stewardship _� +SQ Grantlncome I ,, Glen Cove is a contract that mll be reflected in Fee for Service - 14545 Glen Cove Income (moved to operations) 0.00 Staisardship in 2010 1. TOta14540 Restricted Stewardship Funds 2.000.00 _. 1 I '4550-Restricted Non-government Grant — — _ 4557 Foundation GreMS 10.000.00 +/500 ResMCted Nor-government Grew -Oher 000 Total 4650 Restricted NOngovemment Grant I . 10,000.00, ! 4500 - Restricted US Income - Other 0.00 }. r .Total4500_Restricted L&SIncome(foropamtions) _ —_ _ '� — 179,725.0. _ '.. 14W Multi-Year Cntrbin LT Stew Fund(Capital Fund) 000 �I' Total Restricted US Income 179,725.00 ,,ttpp� ,g a i 15700 Individual Annual Contributions ,.. 5702 Annual Membership §0349 INA i —_- Annual Membership -560 -599 INA ` _x5103 ,_ 5104 Arnold Membership .$100-$249 — NA :'~Par Development Budget Worksheet - -- 5105 Amatal Membership - 52503499 iNA MAtserver\Jefferson Land Trustlaa_S &P Style File System\6.Financial and Asset Management\6A.Annual Budget \Budget\2010 \Final Board Approved Budgef\Fin_ Budget_ Comp_ 1192010 .xisFin_Bu(Igel_Comp_1192010.)ds Pagel 04 Misc Individual Donabi Individual Annual Contributions Jefferson Land Trust Operating Budget 2010 20000.00,:. 1� .yr. Development Butlget Worksheet Per Development Budget Worksheet includes both A/C 5109 and _ 1DOW00 L113 I Per Development Budget Worksheet, assumes 4th $25,000 grant _ 25,000OOIfram Schneider Family Fund for Stewardship operations 000 ' O.00�.See amount 5108 000, llA ataccountingforope rat l.n$Wdget(cashflmbucigetwillshow cash received per prior year and current year pledges) _ 5121 Per year Amount- $0 -$49 15122 Per yearArtaunt - SSO.$99 5123 Peryear Amount- $100 -$M9 5124 Peryear Amount -5250 -$499 _ _ 5125-P.ryc.Annum -$5W- $999__ - Lana 15126 Per"re-Amount- $1090. SalesAdmission other - Fund a Need _ Iri Contribution 1 Events Income t for Service Income Great Admin /Baseline Easement Preparation Stewamship 55M Feefor Service Income 15919 0 -O Other F5920 --Sponsorship 5090 - Ooemtions Income 150,000.001 Based on 30 new Century Stewards ($1,000'5 years 30 individuals) 40.000.00i$10000JCCFGrai $30000othe-grantinwine Special Event - the only event booked in me category is the RainFest AuCbn SO,000.00IPer Development eutlge [Worksheet W,000.00'Per Development Budget Worksheet 1opD.00 30.1100 och Worksheet) Based on 2009 RamFest contributions (not included in Development 2,000.00'', Budget Worksheet) 92,000.00 Reimbursesblegrant income for eraenses other flan SBW ,per 92,55].00'.budgetw 1ameet per SS, see budget Gram worksheet for details Contracts for 2010 -$1500 Jeff Cry, $1.00 Glen Cove, $5.000 Hoh ],500.00 River Trust 0.00. __.. 2'1000 Workshops etc. 100.25 00 ._ 'FFSBL, Frontier Bank Savings and CD, Vanguard estimate. Tapley- _ 10, 000 DOr Brown loan 5.000.001Consercatlon Breakfast 472,35] 00 Artist/Curator Comrrission — - ..Lana � _ .. $300 Annual Meeting, $1,500 RamFest, $300 Volunteer Party, $9D0 Ask Event (overall increase due to ezpeded general increase in Facility Rental __._.._ _. — _ 3,000.001facildy charges antl more spacefor mcrease m membership) $6,000 RainFest, $100 Annual Meeting, $1 We General Outreach. .$5,000 Ask Event, $500 Volunteers $2,400 OWC (increase includes Food/Sevemges/Enterbinment 15,000.00`onies for major donor working fund) 1$200 Annual Meeting, $600 Newsletter $1 Ed YE Appeal. VW Membership Drive, $200 Fee Renewal wIUSPS, $500 General OWreach,$245 Fundum ing,$40 Stewardship, $40 Grant submittals Postage and Shipping 2,375.00 (same amount as 2009 budget) _. —e —.. Land. _ I $1500 Newsletter, $1000 membership. $700 Stewardship and Land, 1 1$50 gram submittals, S50 volunteer party, $100 annual meeting, 1$1200 RainFest, $140 EduclOutreace, $400 Cernury Steward Breakfast, $760 map printing. $200 Fan Tour, $400 Picnic (same Pdnxnnam ruwir•.num 6.500 W lamoum as 2009 budget) _ 5\ Jltserver\Jefferson Land Trustlaa_S &P Style File System\65inancial and Asset Management\6A.Annual Budget\Budget\20101Final Board Approved Budget\ Fin_ Budget_ Comp_ 1192010 .xisFin_Budget_Comp_1192010.xls Page 2 014 Jefferson Land Trust Operating Budget 2010 \\JltserverUefferson Land Trust\aa_S &P Style File System \6.Financial and Asset Management\6A.Annual Budget\Budget\2010 \Final Board Approved Budget \Fin_Budget_ Comp_ 1192010 .xIsFin_Budget_Comp_1192010.)ds Page 3 of 4 istarr Nolunleer Training $ 1000 Project Evatuaton(same amount as - 16108-Travel 1 2,250.0012009 budget) -� 6109 Supplies_ -__ -I. 225000!$2200 Ra'nFest,$50 Ask Event (same amount as 2009 budget) 6110 Other Expense 250 0 $150 Lobbying, $100 General Outreach (based on 2009 expense) _ Total 6100 Program Expenses _ 32225.0 �1 I 16200 2 Land and Expenses I _ -- cqu Sidon and 16210 Acquisition end conv arrce - J q _ � _- - - -_ 6211 Closing Fees g 150000. :See Gant Reimbursement Worksheet - i 6212 Ezdse Tax I -- - _ - -- +— 000, j 6213 Pr /Easement Punch Price pperty I ' 000. _ F , 6210 Tide Insurance � � 6500', See Gant Reim ment burse Worksheet 00 6216 Recording fees 400.00.See Grant Reimbursement Worksheet ' 16210 Acquisition and conveyance - Other 0900 Tote16210 Acquisition and conveyance 8,41x1.00 . 6230 - LamVEzse nsim Holding Expenses_ 6232 Fee Simple Fire protection fees 30000':. Based on 2009 expense 6233 Fee Simple Property Taxes 420.0 Based on history plus $3,000 for T Rock I 623d -Fe Simple Stewardship +_1 _ — - -" " _ — __ 25,50.0 Signage pus Olhu stewardship for Rode _ __ -_- ' ' 16236 - Easement $[ewardship 1.000.00 ' - Other 00' _. _6237 - _ 6238 JILT LandlStawardship Expenses_ OAO ' 6238 Wnce down Conservation Easements 0001 Total 6230 - LamLEasemenl Holding Expense 31000 00 Total 6200 � Land and Stewardahi Ex eases - T r -_ t - P P -__ -_. _ _ 39,400 .00 -- _.__L 6300- Profesdoml services ', _ I Estimated per SS work started in 2009 and will continue through 1 6301 Mana9emant PlanlConsuvation Plan 1 10,00- 0012010 Re riburseeble expense per budget worksheet per SS, we budget Appraisals 0 GaM_wurksheet for details 66 000 1'rReimburseable 16303 _ T'.`- .. expense per budget worksheet par SS, sea budget !6304 Environmental Assessments _ - - 7,50.0'.Gmntworksheetfor de(ails Reirilburseatole per budget worksheet per SS, see bWgel t 16306 -Lantl Consulting -. t for details 22,]50.01 Grant worksheet for tletails �Reimburseable expense per budget wcrksheet per S5, see budget 6306 Legal 5 ,50.00,Grantworksheetfordatails _16307 . Mappmg 300.00' Estimated per EK Reimburseable expense per budget worksheet per SS, see budget 6308 Surveys 14,200.00 Grant worksheet far details 6309 - Graphics 2,000.00'. Brochure planned for 2010 ',. '1$1000 video, $8,00 RainFest consultant, $3000 Auctioneer, - 1 11$11,000 PairTime Event Coordinator $29,325 other reimburseable expense per budget worksheet per SS,$20,000 Strategic Plan 6310. Other Professional 81 325 00'' Consultant 1011 - LandWorks Consuhing 'i. 2,00.0 JLT share of Kate Dean expense Total 63 00 Professional services 214,275.0 Total COGS ! 265,90.0 ;Gross Profit: •., � 1 �rr _ d: 1 .5 :� t S'Y.x eFr.0 (`„F A, 5 , r 17000 Operations Fspense 710 Office Expertise 11$13200 g- B- 01 A _7101 Adveuntin /cooks in Services 7103 Advertising 15200 Clarity $2.000 Clark Nuber Review of Fenn 990 25000!Contlrgenry for volunteers at hiring - -- I 17103 - Bank Service Chagas I � ! 30.0iBased on 2009 expense I 71041 insurance 5,52000, D8 O insurance based on 209 expense l- -_ __._— - ___ I _ - +i165 IM¢ mat _ ___9_00.00IBaeetl on QWeat b1115 fW accees l_n_2PJ9 Based on estimated expense per First Data, credit cards will be 7108 CreditGMfees -Nova ! 2,5000lpmcdssedby JLTstaffin2010 17110-EquipmenNUmiture purchase � i 220.0Now egripment less hen $50[) per purchase (capitalization policy) 7111 Equipmentry led maintenance �: 20000_ Typically printer or computer maintenance - _ r J µ � 1113 Donor Data Base � 33t5.0!Ouertedy E- Tapestry subscription vests I I 7114 OfficeSupplies 1 I ! 1,800 00 Based on 209 expense \\JltserverUefferson Land Trust\aa_S &P Style File System \6.Financial and Asset Management\6A.Annual Budget\Budget\2010 \Final Board Approved Budget \Fin_Budget_ Comp_ 1192010 .xIsFin_Budget_Comp_1192010.)ds Page 3 of 4 Total Jefferson Land Trust Operating Budget 2010 7115 - Postage and shipping 1 _.. —.._ 17116- Prinfirg and tlupliwfirg 7117 Rent 1118 - Telephone 117119 - Trave1 7720�UrPSes 712 T1 -DeDepreciation 17122 - Web DesignlMalntenance !7123 -Other 7124 Volunteers 1400.W1Based on 2009 expense _ex 1,200 WBased on 2009 expense 16:980 W iNO mo'ease n rental expense for 2010 ! Z100 W. W IBaseO on 2009 expense Based on 2009 expense, related to attendi at forwns, board 500 001_plarl retreat, other meetings not program related -_ - 1400.00 IBasetl on 2009 T _ 120000 axpense _T 1120000 Based on 2009 expense for NextPage services, could be adjusted 50000! Miscellaneous W pwchaws — - -_ Based on 2009 expense with increase for hats - 'colludes volunteer 2 5W than YOU gigs hi g", tech help) _. !Based on2o09 expense LTA dues WALT dues books/magazines, 2500 c009e 7126 Food & EnterrelnlmeM Basedo 0011 Based on 2009 e>pense �112_7 Accreditation O W'Plo expelled expenses n 2010 +� 1�28�PaY Pal Fee 90W Basetl on 2009 expense___ _- _. 17129 Management Fee 50 W Based on 2009 expense all adjust based on stock dma[ ons — .— _ - Donations . _._..__ LL7_ 0 W! .]130 7731 F(naoga Chargesnare Fees 7190 Ball Debt Expense 1,5M Wl Based on 2006/2009 history %17100 Admix Office Expenses 67,355.001! D Training 7202 On site training 1 _ _ Traini __ 5000 .00',ILTAeastcoast_w_Merencs LTA regional conference 7204 Wes, Subscriptions _ p d 7200. Training 5000 W;. __.' D - Salary, PR tax bets T See Payroll Staff Adjustment Worksheet. assumes mange rn star. BudgM Pa dl 239,311.0011 12% noease 1 - I 7360 Health Insurance 35,89700 + - Smple IM with 2 %JLT mi- tribwion rather than match of employee X73366- SIMPLE IRA Match ! 4,786.00 ountribuliorn _ !:7370 - Payroll Testes I 1 Total 7370 Payroll Taxes 28,143 00 d 7300 . Salary, PR tax, benefits 308,137.00 w10 Wdtsoff CE WitserveNefferson Land TrusAaa_S&P Style File Systeml6.Financial and Asset Management56A.Annual BudgehBudget120101Final Board Approved BudgetXFin_ Budget _Comp_1192010.xisFin_ Budget _ Comp_1192010.xis Page 4 of 4 C C n LL F U. C C Q C 00 LL LL O O i O QJ N � m w � N !/1 V� O N W M �� n.rn N (n c mo m m O M <£, O O O M m O m' m -e `ice m c o � ti^ 3 p C N N _ Q O 2 h O N Z E O w �1 N C � m c s c o i�s m m W Z V E O U O d N m m h h c � � z N O N C 0 m m m O N C N 0 ?*F N N N N O O O O p p ri E m m C C y y a a k E E d p H d. ` `o m> y y O O O m m � � O O M d d O O v f U N p O N N M M N p [ [D JEFFERSONLAND TRUST AND SUBSIDIARY Consolidated Financial Statements and Independent Accountants' Review Report December 31, 2008 Table of Contents Independent Accountants' Review Report Consolidated Financial Statements: Consolidated Statement of Financial Position Consolidated Statement of Activities Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Supplemental Information: Consolidated Statement of Functional Expenses M 5 -12 13 Independent Accountants' Review Report Board of Directors Jefferson Land Trust and Subsidiary Port Townsend, Washington We have reviewed the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position of Jefferson Land Trust and Subsidiary (collectively, JLT, a nonprofit organization) as of December 31, 2008, and the related consolidated statements of activities and cash flows for the year then ended, in accordance with Statements on Standards for Accounting and Review Services issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. All information included in these consolidated financial statements is the representation of the management of JLT. A review consists principally of inquiries of JLT personnel and analytical procedures applied to financial data. It is substantially less in scope than an audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America, the objective of which is the expression of an opinion regarding the financial statements taken as a whole. Accordingly, we do not express such an opinion. Based on our review, we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made to the accompanying consolidated financial statements in order for them to be in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Our review was made for the purpose of expressing limited assurance that there are no material modifications that should be made to the financial statements in order for them to be in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. The information included in the accompanying statement of functional expenses on page 13 is presented only for supplementary analysis purposes. Such information has been subjected to the inquiry and analytical procedures applied in the review of the basic financial statements, and we are not aware of any material modifications that should be made thereto. Certified Public Accountants Bellevue, Washington June 12, 2009 JEFFERSON LAND TRUST AND SUBSIDIARY Consolidated Statement of Financial Position December 31, 2008 Assets: Cash and equivalents $ 559,515 Investments (Note 2) 240,345 Accounts receivable 123,737 Pledges receivable (Note 3) 468,328 Prepaid 30,000 Land, conservation easements, and purchase options Habitat land 388,303 Working land 325,432 Open space land 167,093 Conservation easements 35 Land purchase option 30,000 Total land, conservation easements, and purchase options (Note 4) 910,863 Furniture and equipment, net of depreciation of $7,856 5,351 Total Assets $ 2,338,139 Liabilities and Net Assets: Accounts payable $ 13,798 Accrued expenses and deferred revenue 30,136 Long -term debt (Note 5) 223,061 Total Liabilities 266,995 Net Assets: Unrestricted (Note 7): Undesignated 270,369 Board designated 841,933 Total unrestricted net assets 1,112,302 Temporarily restricted (Note 8) 958,842 Total Net Assets 2,071,144 Total Liabilities and Net Assets $ 2,338,139 See accompanying notes and accountants' report. 2- JEFFERSON LAND TRUSTAND SUBSIDIARY Consolidated Statement of Activities For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 Revenue, Gains and Losses: Gifts and contributions Fair value of easement acquistions Grants and contracts Special events income, net of expenses of $17,427 Net loss on investments Gain on sale of habitat land property Rental income Release from purpose restriction Total Revenue, Gains and Losses Expenses: Program General and administrative Fundraising Total Expenses Change in Net Assets Beginning of year net assets, as adjusted (Note 9) End of Year Net Assets See accompanying notes and accountants'report. -3- Temporarily Unrestricted Restricted Total $ 346,227 $ 594,436 $ 940,663 1,198,820 1,198,820 160,336 160,336 85,359 85,359 (54,106) (54,106) 94,182 94,182 21,615 21,615 30,941 (30,941) 1,883,374 563,495 2,446,869 1,604,890 121,282 46,341 1,604,890 121,282 46,341 1,772,513 1,772,513 110,861 563,495 674,366 1,001,441 395,347 1,396,788 $ 1,112,302 $ 958,842 $ 2,071,144 JEFFERSON LAND TRUSTAND SUBSIDIARY Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Change in net assets $ 674,356 Adjustments to reconcile change in net assets to net cash provided by operating activities: Depreciation and amortization 1,720 Donated land and easements (38,930) Realized and unrealized loss on investments 71,294 Gain on sale of land (95,362) Changes in assets and liabilities: Accounts receivable (64,822) Pledges receivable (159,340) Accounts payable 11,414 Accrued expenses 13,256 Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 413,586 Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Purchases of investments (7,838) Proceeds from sale of investments 5,245 Purchases of land and land purchase option (161,426) Proceeds from sale of land 126,180 Purchases of furniture and equipment (823) Net Cash Used by Investing Activities (38,662) Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Payments on long term debt (3,049) Net Cash Used by Financing Activities (3,049) Net Change in Cash and Cash Equivalents 371,875 Cash balance, beginning of year 187,640 Cash Balance, End of Year $ 559,515 Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information: Cash paid for interest $ 18,566 See accompanying notes and accountants'report. -4- JEFFERSON LAND TRUSTAND SUBSIDIARY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 1 - Organization and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Organization - Jefferson Land Trust (the Land Trust) is a Washington nonprofit corporation, formed on April 7, 1989. The Land Trust's purpose is to acquire, preserve and manage open space lands and easements for land conservation purposes benefitting the public. The Land Trust also provides information and materials to the public on land conservation issues. The Land Trust serves Jefferson County on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington. The Land Trust has been accredited by the national Land Trust Alliance as of August 5, 2009, On September 5, 2007, JLT Resources, LLC was formed with Jefferson Land Trust as its only member. JLT Resources, LLC was formed for the purpose of purchasing and holding land for conservation purposes. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies: Principles of Consolidation - These financial statements consolidate the statements of Jefferson Land Trust and JLT Resources, LLC (collectively, "JLT"). Inter-organization balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. Basis of Accounting - The financial statements of JLT have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting. Basis of Presentation - Net assets and revenues, expenses, gains and losses are classified based on the existence or absence of donor - imposed restrictions. Accordingly, the net assets of JLT and changes therein are classified and reported as follows: Unrestricted Net Assets - Include all net assets on which there are no donor - imposed restrictions for use, or on which donor - imposed restrictions were temporary and have expired. Temporarily Restricted Net Assets - Include all net assets subject to donor - imposed restrictions that will be met either by actions of JLT or the passage of time. Permanently Restricted Net Assets - Include all net assets received by donations wherein the donors impose a permanent restriction on the use of the gift. The donors require the gift to be invested and only the income from such investments may be used to support the intended cause. JLT had no permanently restricted net assets as of December 31, 2008. All donor - restricted support is reported as increases in temporarily or permanently restricted net assets, depending on the nature of the restriction. When restrictions expire (that is, when a stipulated time restriction ends or purpose restriction is accomplished), temporarily restricted net assets are reclassified to unrestricted net assets and reported in the statement of activities as net assets released from restriction. Gifts of equipment are reported as unrestricted support unless explicit donor stipulations specify how the donated assets must be used. Gifts of long -lived assets with explicit restrictions that specify how the assets are to be used and gifts of cash or other assets that must be used to acquire long -lived assets are reported as restricted support. Absent explicit donor stipulations about how long those long -lived assets must be maintained, expirations of donor restrictions are reported when the donated or acquired long -lived assets are placed in service. -5- JEFFERSONLAND TRUSTAND SUBSIDIARY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note I - Continued Use of Estimates - The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents - For reporting purposes, JLT considers all unrestricted highly liquid investments with a purchased maturity of three months or less to be cash equivalents. Concentrations - JLT maintains its cash in bank deposit accounts with one financial institution. JLT's cash balances may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. One donor's pledge represented approximately 43% of pledges receivable at December 31, 2008. Investments - Investments in marketable securities with readily determinable fair values and all investments in debt securities are valued at their fair values in the statement of financial position. The carrying amount of the investment held in trust is determined by the trustee holding the securities. Unrealized gains and losses are included in the change in net assets. JLT has established a designated fund at Jefferson County Community Foundation. As JLT has designated itself as the beneficiary of the fund, the fund balance and activity are reported in the financial statements of JLT as required by generally accepted accounting principles. Accounts Receivable - Accounts receivable are stated at the amount management expects to collect from outstanding balances. Management provides for probable uncollectible amounts through a charge to earnings and a credit to a valuation allowance based on its assessment of the current status of individual accounts. Balances still outstanding after management has used reasonable collection efforts are written off through a charge to the valuation allowance and a credit to trade accounts receivable. Changes in the valuation have not been material to the financial statements. Grants and Contracts - JLT receives grants and contracts from federal, state, and local agencies, as well as from private organizations, to be used for specific programs or land purchases. The excess of grants receivable over reimbursable expenditures to -date is recorded as deferred revenue. Furniture and Equipment - Furniture and equipment are capitalized at cost if purchased, or, if donated, at the approximate fair value at the date of donation. When retired or otherwise disposed of, the related carrying value and accumulated depreciation are removed from the respective accounts and the net difference, less any amount realized from disposition, is reflected in earnings. Maintenance and repairs are charged to expenses as incurred. Costs of significant improvements are capitalized. JLT provides for depreciation using the straight -line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets of five to ten years. JEFFERSON LAND TRUST AND SUBSIDIARY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note I - Continued Land and Easements - JLT records acquisitions of land at cost if purchased. Land acquired through donation is recorded at fair value, with fair values generally based on independent professional appraisals. These assets fall into two primary categories: Conservation lands - Real property with significant ecological value for habitat, open space, or working lands. Stewardship programs of JLT manage these properties to protect the natural biological diversity of the property. JLT manages its working timberland as a Forest Stewardship Council — Certified, managed forest. Conservation easements - Voluntary legal agreements between a landowner and a land trust or government agency to permanently protect the identified natural features and conservation values of the property. These easements may be sold or transferred to others so long as the assignee agrees to carry out, in perpetuity, the conservation purposes intended by the original grantor. Conservation easements owned by JILT protect habitat, open space and working lands, such as family farms, through its stewardship programs. Easements acquired represent numerous restrictions over the use and development of land not owned by JLT. Since the benefits of such easements accrue to the public upon acquisition, the fair market value of easements acquired is shown in the year of acquisition as an addition to net assets to record the donation of the easement, and unless conveyed to a public agency for consideration, shown as a reduction in net assets to record the value of the public's benefit and to recognize that these easements have no marketable value once severed from the land and held by JLT. Easements held by JLT are carried on the statement of financial position at $1 each for tracking and accounting purposes. Easements valued at $1,198,820 were donated to JLT during the year ended December 31, 2008. Accordingly, $1,198,820 of contribution revenue and $1,198,815 of related write down expense have been reported on the statement of activities for the year ended December 31, 2008. Federal Income Taxes - The Internal Revenue Service has determined Jefferson Land Trust and JLT Resources, LLC (a disregarded entity) to be exempt from federal income taxes under Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to the organizations are deductible as allowed under Section 170(b)(I)(A)(vi) of the Code. Functional Allocation of Expenses - The costs of providing the various programs and other activities have been summarized on a functional basis in the statement of activities. Accordingly, certain costs have been allocated among the programs and supporting services benefited. Note 2 - Fair Value Measurements In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ( "FASB ") issued FASB Statement ("SFAS ") No. 157, Fair Value Measurements. SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. To increase consistency and comparability in fair value measurements, SFAS 157 uses a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation approaches into three broad levels. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to quoted prices in active markets (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). -7- JEFFERSON LAND TR UST AND SUBSIDIARY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 2 - Continued Valuation Techniques - Financial assets and liabilities valued using Level 1 inputs are based on unadjusted quoted market prices within active markets. Financial assets and liabilities valued using Level 2 inputs are based primarily on quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active or inactive markets. Financial assets and liabilities using Level 3 inputs were primarily valued using management's assumptions about the assumptions market participants would utilize in pricing the asset or liability. Valuation techniques utilized to determine fair value are consistently applied. Fair Values Measured on a Recurring Basis - Fair values of investments measured on a recurring basis at December 31, 2008 were as follows: Fair Value Measurements at December 31, 2008 Quoted Prices Significant In Active Other Significant Markets for Observable Unobservable Identical Assets Inputs Inputs (Level 1) (Level 2) (Level 32 Total Certificates of deposit $ - $ 91,449 $ - $ 91,449 Funds held at Jefferson County Community Foundation 148.896 148.896 A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances for fair value measurements made using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) follows: Beginning balance at January 1, 2008 $ 221,686 Total losses (realized /unrealized) (67,545) Withdrawals (5.245) Ending Balance at December 31, 2008 $ 148.896 Investment return for the year ended December 31, 2008 consisted of the following: Interest income $ 17,188 Realized /unrealized loss (71,294) M JEFFERSON LAND TRUSTAND SUBSIDL4RY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 3 - Pledges Receivable At December 31, 2008, JLT had $468,328 in pledges receivable, which are to be received over a period of five years. Expected future receipts for the next five years are as follows: Years Ending December 31, 2009 $ 143,307 2010 131,916 2011 104,840 2012 82,765 2013 5.500 S 468.328 A present value discount on pledges receivable has been determined to not be material to the financial statements. No allowance for doubtful accounts was deemed necessary by management for the promises to give based on historic experience. Note 4 - Land, Conservation Easements, and Purchase Options Land, conservation easements, and purchase options at December 31, 2008 are summarized as follows: Land: Red Dog Farm Quimper Wildlife Corridor Bulis Chimacum Creek Kilham Corner Conservation easements Land purchase option $ 333,760 243,804 125,240 139,094 38,930 35 30.000 JEFFERSON LAND TRUSTAND SUBSIDIARY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 5 - Long -term Debt On December 18, 2007, JLT entered into a loan agreement with a commercial lender in the amount of $226,110. The loan bears interest at 8.5 %, and is due in 60 monthly payments of principal and interest totaling $1,965, and a final principal payment of $202,753 on January 10, 2013. The loan is secured by the Red Dog Farm property and an Assignment of Rents from the lease described in Note 6. Principal payments on the loan are as follows: Years Ending December 31, 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Note 6 - Lease Agreements $ 4,451 4,845 5,273 5,739 202.753 JLT has entered into an operating lease as lessee for its administrative office in Port Townsend, Washington. The lease expires in June 2010. Rent expense totaled $17,627 for the year ended December 31, 2008. Minimum lease payments for 2009 and 2010 are $16,950 and $8,475, respectively. On December 20, 2007, JLT Resources, LLC entered into a lease agreement as lessor for the Red Dog Farm property. The lease term is five years, and monthly lease payments are $1,965. The lease requires the lessee to pay all taxes and assessments relating to the property. The lease also requires the lessee to comply with a land use plan, and provides a purchase option to the lessee during the lease term. Sublease rentals to be received are as follows: Years Ending December 31, 2009 $ 23,580 2010 23,580 2011 23,580 2012 23.580 E 94.320 -10- JEFFERSON LAND TRUST AND SUBSIDIARY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 7- Unrestricted Net Assets Unrestricted net assets consisted of the following at December 31, 2008: Designated - Red Dog Farm land $ 333,760 Designated - Quimper Wildlife Corridor land 243,804 Designated - Bulis 125,240 Designated - Chimacum Creek 139,094 Conservation easements 35 Total designated 841,933 Undesignated 270.369 S 1,,112.3D2 Note 8 - Temporarily Restricted Net Assets Temporarily restricted net assets consisted of the following at December 31, 2008: Purpose restriction To purchase Glendale Farm easement $ 300,000 To purchase Gateway land 100,000 For stewardship of Bulis property 90,514 490,514 Time restriction: Outstanding pledges 468.328 Note 9- Adjustments to Beginning! Net Assets During the year ended December 31, 2007, JLT entered into an agreement with the Jefferson County Community Foundation (JCCF), whereby the Jefferson Land Trust Stewardship Fund (the Fund) was established. JLT transferred a total of $215,260 to the Fund. Per the terms of a Memorandum of Understanding, distributions from the Fund will be made for stewardship and legal defense of easements held by JLT. This transaction had been recognized as an expense in a prior year. It was determined during the year ended December 31, 2008 that, under the terms of the fund agreement, JLT maintains control over the fund assets and any distributions of earnings from the Fund. Therefore, an adjustment was recorded to reverse the expense and record the value of the fund and related investment earnings at December 31, 2007. As a result, beginning net assets were increased by $221,686. During the year ended December 31, 2008, JLT determined that temporarily restricted funds held by JLT from previous year donations had originally been recorded as unrestricted. The temporary restriction has been recorded as of December 31, 2007. As a result, beginning temporarily restricted net assets were increased by $395,347, and beginning unrestricted net assets were decreased by $395,347. -H- JEFFERSON LAND TRUSTAND SUBSIDIARY Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements Note 9 - Continued During the year ended December 31, 2008, JLT determined that unrestricted funds held by JLT from a previous year donation had originally been recorded as temporarily restricted. The temporary restriction has been reversed as of December 31, 2007. As a result, beginning unrestricted net assets were increased by $37,084, and beginning temporarily restricted net assets were decreased by $37,084. During the year ended December 31, 2008, JLT determined that a portion of land held had been transferred to an outside party in a prior year, but had not been reflected as such in the accounting records. The land has been removed from the records as of December 31, 2007. As a result, beginning unrestricted net assets were decreased by $7,500. During the year ended December 31, 2008, JLT determined that a portion of land had been acquired in a previous year, but had not been reflected as such in the accounting records. The land has been included in the records as of December 31, 2007. As a result, beginning unrestricted net assets were increased by $9,650. The following table sets forth the effects of these adjustments at C As Previously Reported Consolidated Statement of Financial Position: Unrestricted net assets $ 1,135,867 Temporarily restricted net assets 37.084 iecember 31, 2007: Adjustments As Adjusted $ (134,426) $ 1,001,441 358.263 395.347 Total Net Assets E 1.172.951 $-22= $i$$ Note 10 - Subsequent Events In the months following year end, JLT, along with the markets in general, has experienced significant fluctuations in its investment balances. JLT is aware there are significant pressures in the current global financial markets. JLT is vigilantly monitoring the developments in the markets and believes that it is positioned to deal with these developments should the unfavorable market conditions persist. Policy dictates maintaining the asset allocation through all markets rather than attempting market timing. _12_ JEFFERSON LAND TR UST AND SUBSIDIARY Consolidated Statement of Functional Expenses For the Year Ended December 31, 2008 Salaries Payroll taxes Employee benefits Total salaries and benefits expense Land and stewardship expenses Fair value of easement donations written down Donation to Nordland Garden Club Professional fees Public awareness Rent Postage and printing Travel and seminars Office supplies Insurance Web design and maintenance Telephone Utilities Dues and subscriptions Depreciation Bank fees Interest Other expenses Total Expenses See accountants'report. General and Program Administrative Fundraising Total $ 149,260 $ 61,217 $ 31,536 $ 242,013 15,121 6,097 3,170 24,388 22,253 8,973 4,666 35,892 186,634 76,287 39,372 302,293 130,717 136 130,853 1,198,815 1,198,815 6,284 6,284 28,045 28,045 12,395 12,395 10,871 4,459 811 16,141 11,708 584 2,267 14,559 7,937 2,081 1,067 11,085 6,406 1,973 867 9,246 2,443 2,465 4,908 867 867 1,734 2,181 894 461 3,536 1,275 523 269 2,067 1,561 1,561 3,122 1,061 435 224 1,720 453 453 18,566 18,566 5,169 1,522 6,691 $ 1,604,890 $ 121,282 $ 46,341 $ 1,772,513 -13- maintaining an abundant pattern of scenic open spaces, productive working lands and native wildlife habitat amidst the increased development of the future requires foresight, communication and organization. It will require both pioneering conservation and innovative development. Nothing short of a broad -based movement is required to achieve the future we aim for, and this Conservation Plan is a product of this movement. It represents the input and research contributed by Jefferso my residents, conservation practitioners, resource managers and other rs over the course of four years, and it provides guidance on how AT can bec e its conservation goal: to help the community protect the most important p orking lands and habitat for future generations. 'Ahk, The Olympic Peninsula has always been an a ing and inspirin e, and it has sustained people for thousands of years. less than two centun ter settlers first started arriving, its jagged mountain ra s a sceni ckdrop to th et Sound for millions of people, and it is considered wo o atural treasure. People are drawn to the Olympi ula for the rivers, rugged shorelines, expansive forests and mountain0 to expen the rejuvenating qualities of outdoor recreation and natural bea Taking a look back wild lands one changed in the 0 years, years as the hum pulatio waters around us. t more tJ_rnd cu 20 years land on el�sula has gone from a ly or managed. A lot has we exp I change in the coming 100 tinues to ng more from the land and r rs, t State population grew by ecti xpect to see another 2 ulation of o is expected to grow by 50% This p the result of effo bring the community together to visualize a Jefferson Vdenot m no that continues to be just as enchanting and inspiring to children, and their grandchildren, and to identify ways to achieve that vnk this place is incredible, and in the face of so many pressures and going to remain that way forever on its own. We all have a role to ensure clean air and clean water, vibrant economies, healthy working lands, and abundant wildlife well into the future. We realize that much of the work to achieve the Visions outlined in this plan must be accomplished in the next 20 -30 years. Using geospatial technology and analysis, we have determined that with the projected rates of growth, and the available land base 1 OFM, 2007. Office of Financial Management, State of Washington. 2007 County Projections. http://www.ofm.wa-gov/pop/gma/projections07.asp JLT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 1 of 12 for development under current regulations and feasibility, all land available for development will be built on by XXXX ( —j. We already know what sprawl does to communities, to open spaces, to working lands, to habitat. If we don't act, the quality of life, the scenic qualities, the rural character of the county could be undermined. Building on past successes and momentum, this Conservation Plan is the beginning of a new era of collaboration to meet that ambitious timeline. GOALS OF THE CONSERVATION PLAN First, this Conservation Plan will help guide JLT in fulfilling the community using non- regulatory land conservation t action and inform decisions, to bring greater focus to Jefferson County, and to bring clarity to our collecti and economy for future generations. This plan also is a call to conservation par collaboration and action. We want this p land use and development, to help form i Visions of the community, and to comple many other relevant plans currer4ft&pl; What this plan does not do is new JLT project and program board of directors. By engaging the this ConservatA Plan will need to term thin ' an Speci )servation Visions of s meant to inspire servation efforts in L healthy environment Rf other land use sib nform others in their ders for elating to servation rs e, the organizations — each :t to approval by the Plplanninlcess, ultimately resulting in action has been laid. This Conservation Landscape over time; it promotes long - evisited, changed, and improved. ng land and habitat which will support vibrant functioning ecosystems and healthy communities in Jefferson County re JLT should commit resources projects fit in a larger conservation framework 46 Inform and support the Olympic Agenda JLT Conservation Plan— Introduction Page 2 of 12 JILT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 3 of 12 JEFFERSON COUNTY IN Jefferson County is bordered by w� Admiralty Inlet and Hood Canal. It comprises an ntv. to a rolling laslopes of the precipitation Olympic from an gias Tr-clqWaTeaq th1W to the vallel7wrs a Juan'1101kica. and Adm1W I Like othelillWic landscap North America, the Peninsula is experiencing increased levels of im Srd erm t loss of open space, working lands and habitat. Recent population gro s essure on its traditional natural and rural land base. Particularly durin our decades, Jefferson County's average annual population growth outpaced gton State and national averages. Since 1990, the population of Jefferson County has grown 50 %, from an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 2. In the next twenty years, we can expect to see an additional 50%3. Again, our analysis indicates z State of Washington Office of Financial Management, Population Trends, Sept. 2008. http://www.ofm.wa.gov/pop/poptrends/ 3 State of Washington Office of Financial Management, County Growth Management Act Population Projections, 2007. http: / /www.ofm.wa.gov /pop /gma /projections07,asp JILT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 4 of 12 ific O Strait of Juan de Fuca, of th pic Peninsula, and F e cific seacoast gives way rate r sts up to the western 3weriver valleys receive the greatest annual rise to the windswept heights of the ine landscapes separate the West the Puget Trough, the comparatively with streams and rivers that cut � into the marine waters of Hood Canal, Strait of Like othelillWic landscap North America, the Peninsula is experiencing increased levels of im Srd erm t loss of open space, working lands and habitat. Recent population gro s essure on its traditional natural and rural land base. Particularly durin our decades, Jefferson County's average annual population growth outpaced gton State and national averages. Since 1990, the population of Jefferson County has grown 50 %, from an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 2. In the next twenty years, we can expect to see an additional 50%3. Again, our analysis indicates z State of Washington Office of Financial Management, Population Trends, Sept. 2008. http://www.ofm.wa.gov/pop/poptrends/ 3 State of Washington Office of Financial Management, County Growth Management Act Population Projections, 2007. http: / /www.ofm.wa.gov /pop /gma /projections07,asp JILT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 4 of 12 that at these rates, most of the legal building sites on vacant land could be converted to commercial, industrial or residential uses within the next _- -- bringing the Land Trust's mission into sharp focus. This growth is happening for a number of reasons, among them being the majestic beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, the quality of life, the healthy communities, the abundant natural resources and wildlife, the opportunities for outdoor recreation, the proximity to metropolitan areas, and vast open space — all drawing people to settle and share the experiences this region offers. Recognizing these converging factors, JLT has developed this ervation Plan. In the years ahead, this plan will guide the combined efforts of d Trust, its partners and the community toward a future that balances healthy ties with productive working lands and functional ecosystems. JLT occupies a central leadership position in ful munity vision to PTserve the natural heritage of the county. L nding part ips, community support, and twenty years of conservation expe fferson ty have all laid the foundation for this planning effort and for the r m ns of Ian. This planning process began with (and aims ort) bro artner d c nity interests. Strategic consery ann wide) ed as tant for increased levels of success; resear ducted b Land Alliance ° (L A) has found that land trusts which focus on s is conse on priori fulfill their mission more efficiently. Recognizin this, an it nt p ation of the Cascade Agenda by the Casca ery ),1L e first meeting of the conservation pla roces 05. is meeting Je rson County long -range planners, r entatives fro an met to discuss the possibility of collaborating on a plan arable in sco the ade Agenda and focused on the Olympic Peninsula. County -range plann ere u le to commit the resources needed for such an endeavor, emain sup ive of such efforts. JLT and CLC co ed a ng collaborative approaches. Subsequent meetings in 2007 were expanded to ther potential project partners, as well as representatives from the Whidbey C no Land Trust (WCLT) and The Nature Conservancy (TNC) to share their respective conservation planning methods and results. These preliminary meetings provided the perspective JILT needed to move forward with the planning process that best suited the people, patterns and landscapes of Jefferson County. This plan represents JLT's planning efforts focused specifically on the landscapes and communities of Jefferson County, and the results of this plan will later ° A non - profit membership organization supporting land trusts throughout the nation. JLT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 5 of 12 be incorporated as an important component of the broader Olympic Agenda. The scope of the conservation planning process and resulting plan was refined and a series of primary objectives were established. PRIMARY OBJECTIVES OF THE CONSERVATION PLANNING PROCESS 46 Generate input from a broad spectrum of county residents and stakeholders 46 Create a conservation Vision for Jefferson County based on community and scientific input Produce a plan that recognizes and aims to con environmental factors that underline the oroso Identify priority land and water resources Produce strategies that support the c protection of priority land and water Inform and support the develo With generous financial assistance from the conservation planning process w unchei phase. In early 2008, JLT contrac Cl department to prepare maps of. e conservation planning process. Thes aps in a graphic form whi g parti I conservation prior a Produ >A 2006 Aerie Photograp R I ax Parcel strial Hy An internal re certain resource county. Rare Plants and Endangered Ecosystems Rconomic, social and health of the region conservation Vision e long -term information collection Information Services (GIS) I throughout the 0geographic information i fforts to help identify Public and Protected Private Lands TNC Ecoregional Portfolio Sites Jefferson County Zoning by JILT staff and board provided initial insights into how ulations and patterns are distributed throughout the An additional map was also created that specifically identifies the conservation accomplishments of JLT since its incorporation. With hundreds of partnerships, millions of dollars in financing and the generous contributions from the community, JLT is helping ensure the permanent protection of nearly 8,000 acres of land across the county. This new map ( —) helps illustrate the extent and details of these conservation projects. JLT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 6 of 12 Using portions of the WCLT conservation planning process as a model, JLT designed a series of 10 meetings which would provide the bulk of direct community input for the plan. Further support was provided by the Hood Canal Coordinating Council and mapping support was provided by Jefferson County. Ideas, strategic recommendations and priorities expressed by individuals who attended all these meetings have been compiled, reviewed and considered in this Conservation Plan. The meetings consisted of two Experts team meetings, four focus group meetings and four public meetings. EXPERTS TEAM Over 20 community leaders representing conservation gr forestry interests, business interests, real estate and de business, tourism and recreation interests were aske the duration of this planning process. The Experts e ti collective diversity of interests and their local dge needs. Gathering in early spring 2008, the Expert learned process, discussed roles and responsibilities a ovidA this process, the Experts Team m meeting support and other input The Experts Team was asked to knowledge, provide the', wn @ relief maps of the co through freefo 2 ues high cons lueservati . Much of the Exoer r m rvation Based on in am the input on specifi d u themes into four bets would cl g this con III th ing m ;ra inp it co re ipants narily made ricultural interests, t, government, the Experts team for Led based on their and un nding of resource out the pro planning ut. As ambas s for b be called on for ad on planning process. using their local 3rkers on blank shaded resource types and areas in the county with the additional meetings scheduled ,t and support. At a final review rrfWns, discussed the Visions, Priority Places ways to support the implementation of the :s Team and the need to target discussion and collect associated issues, JLT divided the conservation planning s: Recreation and Tourism; Habitat; Forestry; and Agriculture. These thWes correspond with those in the JLT mission statement: Helping the community preserve open space, working lands and habitat forever. J LT developed these themes with an understanding of the interconnections between them in supporting a vibrant economy, healthy environment and high quality of life. In order to assemble meaningful input based on each of these themes, JLT invited stakeholders from around the county to participate in a series of meetings to discuss conservation priorities, strategies and challenges. Focus Group meetings held in the Spring of 2008 were well attended and highly participatory. Stakeholders represented a JLT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 7 of 12 variety of interests, expertise, and geographic regions of the county and were asked to provide input in response to a number of questions. First, participants were asked to review the 13 planning maps, and then review the geographic input received from the Experts Team. The focus group participants were provided with four stickers, each with a different number, to place directly on the map identifying their own understanding of priority resource areas and /or reinforcing the already identified priority resource areas. The numbers on the stickers matched numbers on worksheets which participants used to describe the specific values associated with the area identified by the sticker. Participants were also asked to participate in a concurren storming session using Meetingworks ©electronic meeting software. Each pa was provided a laptop computer connected to a network, and was asked t id ers and ideas in response to a series of questions. Answers wer ymously hrough the network and projected on the screen for all p ants to see as ncurrent brainstorming session unfolded. This met ovided an opportune ather an immense amount of input for some very i ant quest' s in a relativ ort amount of time ( The input gathered in the map e s and Mee ks'O sessions was organized and thoroughly reviewed as part lopmen is report. This input has informed the strategies and recom da this p reat deal and is referenced throughout. PUBLIC MEETIN The geographi generate m the its Team and Focus Group map exercises were compiled an orpora to a new with the identified conservation priorities sente circ points located across a shaded relief map rrent Ian blic lands and protected lands were al tified on ew Four copies were produced for use at public meetings in ene, Port Ha Po nsend, and Forks5. At the etinR .JLT re enta shared information about the conservation planning ss, facilitat question and answer period and asked participants to review the p TWLg maps. e the focus group mapping exercise, all participants were then asked to u ur red stickers to identify their priority conservation areas on the new map and uestions on a correlating worksheet. Using Meetingworks© echnology, participants were encouraged to use a series of laptop computers placed around the perimeter of the room to answer different questions related to long -term conservation in Jefferson County6. The questions were s West Jefferson County residents recommended Forks as the best meeting place, although it is not within Jefferson County. 6 XT was not able to use the Meetingworks® technology at the Forks meeting JILT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 8 of 12 identical for each of the public meetings, and with the answers compiled and organized ( —),1LT representatives were able to review and integrate this input into the final plan. The public meetings functioned as more than an input generating process - the presentations about JLT and the conservation planning process proved to be an important learning opportunity for many community members. The mission, conservation tools, significance and presence of the land trust sparked productive question and answer periods, as well as follow -up discussions. ORGANIZING THE INPUT Following the planning meetings, JLT staff and volunte red into the phase of processing the information collected from the com in organized plan. In processing the input, and considering strategies, c unty wa 'ded into three distinct areas: the West, the Southeast, and t heast ( . Each area has needs, threats, characteristics, and opport different from the and will demand different conservation approache a roughly tlined in the wing ways: the West is defined as everything in Jefferson ty Olympic Nati ark; the Northeast includes everything fro Port Tow e o the extent of the Snow, Salmon, Chimacum, and Ludlow tersheds; he Southeast includes the area east of Olympic National Forest an a exten he Andrews, Tarboo and Thorndyke creek watersheds. At the planning mee ' ipants ne ferson County in 100 years. Looking fo an en entu ercise I uism - a challenge to think beyond self int and expli consid a landscape and resources future generations of re is and v' s are goi experience, manage and need. The response ese f ons a then amalgamated into a guiding Visio ea ervation a Visions are targets for JLT and the co ity to ai the oals to work owards; and they portray the kind of ex dinary place ge ions deserve. ReachFMWe Visions wiIIIII&L ire divent parts of the county - there are diverse needs, threats, c teristics, an portunities for different parts of the county. This diversity wNre ffer approaches to integrating working farms, forests, habitats, rea d development. Recognizing this, this Conservation Plan considers t e county The potentia l to reach he Visions is influenced by several factors. Knowing the threats and opportunities that currently exist, as well as those that are anticipated, is critical to developing JLT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 9 of 12 appropriate actions. The community inventory of those factors is reflected in the Driving Forces portion of each chapter. Patterns within the community feedback emerged and much of the most relevant input falls into four main categories: Growth and Conversion, Public Awareness, Markets and Policy, and Climate Change. Conservation Actions outlined in this plan are chosen approaches for achieving the Visions. To develop the Conservation Actions for each conservation theme, the community input was analyzed in the context of JLT's history and mission as well as several other published conservation assessments. The Conservation Actions also fit within four overarching categories, which correlate directly Sustainable Development, Public Support, Incentives andA and Adaptation and partnerships and establishing new ones; t when responding to new opportunities, know As areas with important conservation valueA the map exercises described above, as w through the Meetingworks exercises, JILT ut could provide guidance for implementing the produced using the direct input f) data sources section of each map been produced strictly as guides improved overtime as existing programs >rk to build from These maps have to be updated and lo right people, agencies, organizations be achieved — so we have clean air and wildlife and scenic vistas for generations. methods will have to be used in innovative ways, JLT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 10 of 12 Direct Land Conservation Tools One traditional method, or conservation tool, is the full ownership (fee - simple) of a property. Ownership of a property by JLT or other public interest organization or agency can be one of the most effective ways to ensure land is managed in a way that conserves its most important values for future generations. Fee - simple ownership of land provides the greatest level of control over the use and condition of a property, yet it comes with its own set of challenges. Another conservation tool that is commonly used is establishing voluntary conservation agreements between landowners and JLT. These voluntary conservation agreements, called conservation easements, ensure the permanent protection of private land for its open space, productive or habitat values. Conservation easements are recorded on the title of the property, and the land trust ensures the terms of the easement are honored in perpetuity. Under these agreements, the land remains privately owned and managed just like any other property, but specific terms and conditions of the easement help direct the uses of the land in a way that preserves the owner's intentions and important conservation values that are present on the property: the productive soils are protected from erosion and degradation, the scenic qualities and important natural features remain undeveloped, the valuable wildlife habitat is maintained or improved, etc. Conservation easements will continue to be a primary tool in the implementation of this Conservation Plan. Other tools used less often include long -term lease arrangements, long -term option agreements, private deed restrictions, private contracts and other license agreements, conservation limited developments, transfer of development rights, and many others. Th ns, Prior ces Conservation�ctions of this Conservation Plan are not m ly exclusive — areNW1 to compliment each other. Indeed the strategy for impl tatio4ee va ction will need to consider all others in order to achie ve inn th ommunity desires. Each of the Conservation Actions wil wn implementation strategies, metrics, and partnerships. There will alwa ailable funding, energy, capacity and other resources for conservation. Conservation Actions in this plan acknowledge these limitations and e them through collaborations, partnerships and leadership. Such an extraordinary place demands extraordinary efforts by us all to achieve our Vision. Measurable success of this plan will come in the form of not only acres protected, but also in partnerships garnered, momentum gained, and community members involved. The adaptability of this plan is central to its success and regularly reviewing the work and achievements related to this plan will be integral to keeping up with conservation needs. No firm review, evaluation or update schedule has been proposed in this initial JILT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 11 of 12 version. The two years following adoption will determine to what extent this plan is incorporated into, or separate from the Olympic Agenda. These first years will also provide insight into how it is best used as a practical tool. Improvements to the plan are expected. JLT Conservation Plan — Introduction Page 12 of 12 IN PERSPECTIVE The Olympic Peninsula has been a refuge of natural beauty for thousands of years, and for more than a century it has attracted outdoor enthusiasts and sightseers from all over the world. They come for the wildness, the vistas, the abundant wildlife, the mountains, the adventures, the quiet reflection. This nature -based recreation and tourism is a major economic driver, and a major contributor to our quality of life. You're never too far from a hike in the forest, a walk on the beach, a picnic by the river, a paddle on the bay —this is part of what makes living and working here so enriching. As early as the late 1800's the Olympic Peninsula was attracting excursions from Seattle and beyond. People came by steamer to picnic, hike, hunt, and fish in the river valleys and mountains. By 1903 the Brinnon area was a favorite tourism destination, pronounced to be "the finest there is for trout streams, waterfalls, hiking, boaters, and is a camper's paradisen'. Resort, guide and transport services all thrived with the growing popularity, and the creation of the Olympic National Park (ONP) in 1938 guaranteed a long future of visitors seeking nature - based experiences. An estimated three million people' visit the ONP each year, most of whom travel through Jefferson County. For these visitors seeking natural beauty and inspiration, the surrounding lands of Jefferson County are more than just a gateway to ONP destinations. They make up a naturally scenic landscape full of its own recreation and tourism opportunities, and they can become an important part of a visitor's experience. The abundant open space —the forests, the farms, the parks, the shorelines, the undeveloped land in and near towns — is an underlying quality that influences how we all view and experience this place. UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS AND ASSETS No other Washington county includes such a diverse geographic exposure. Marine waters of the coast and inland sea, glacier -clad mountain peaks, world renowned temperate rain forests, free flowing rivers, and lowland forests and valleys all make Jefferson County outstanding in its 1 Port Townsend Leader, Aug 22, 1903 ' Visitation to Olympic National Park for 2008 was estimated to be 3,081,451, while the annual average number of visitors to Olympic National Park between 1988 and 2008 is estimated by the National Park Service to be 3,182,583. JLT Conservation Plan — Recreation and Tourism Page 1 of 6 nature -based recreation and tourism appeal. Further demonstrating the exceptional conditions found here, the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization declared the ONP as a World Heritage Site in 1981; the natural landscape of Jefferson County is a recreation and tourism highlight of the world. Approximately three - fourths of the land area in the County is in public ownership and available for recreation purposes. In addition to 46 sites for outdoor recreational activities such as camping or fishing on State and Federal land, there are 30 parks managed by Jefferson County, 23 managed by the City of Port Townsend, and nine managed by the Port of Port Townsend. Some private land is also available for recreation purposes, including some of the working forest landscape and some land trust conservation land. Located within and between these public and private lands, there is a growing inventory of non - motorized transportation and recreational trails. These systems provide a variety of off -road opportunities for walking, hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, and even water trail activities throughout the county. The largest trail effort includes the conversion of the abandoned Seattle & North Coast Railroad grade into the Larry Scott Memorial Trial. This six mile multipurpose trail connects the City of Port Townsend with surrounding residential areas, and includes amenities such as benches, bike racks, interpretive signs, kiosk and restrooms. Approximately eight miles of the trail remain to be constructed before being incorporated into the Olympic Discovery Trail (ODT) system. The ODT is a regional trail system that ultimately will cross the entire North Olympic Peninsula, extending from Port Townsend to the Pacific Coast at La Push. Other trail linkage projects are gaining momentum, particularly around the population centers of the Northeast. Several recreation lands in the Northeast have extensive trail networks, but few linkages between them or to residential areas. With the greatest percentage of the county population, the Northeast also has the greatest concentration of state and county parks. These parks, trails and other accessible places provide excellent nature -based recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The Northeast is also the primary source of services in Jefferson County for ONP destined tourists. Whether biking through pastoral conditions on county roads, boating on the bays, or camping at a local park the Northeast provides the most diversified recreation and tourism opportunities in the county. For the majority of the county population, and the visitors from the Seattle metropolitan area, one of the closest access points to the wild Olympic interior is through the Southeast. Tourism in this part of the county is almost exclusively nature - based. Although support services are limited, and have actually declined over the past two decades, it provides some of the county's best recreation and tourism opportunities in wildlife watching, scenic vistas, shellfish harvesting, shrimping, and fishing. The West is a nature -based recreation and tourism showcase for Jefferson County. The wild coast and ancient temperate rain forests protected within the boundaries of Olympic National Park host over 1.S million visitors every year'. The 30 miles of shoreline along the Pacific Ocean in the West is predominantly located within the ONP, with the remainder located within the boundaries of the Quinault and Hoh Nations. Rivers in the West are much larger in scale than those in the Southeast, and have good road and trail accessibility, with intact upper reaches protected within the National Park. Seasonal recreational use on the major rivers affords 3 NIPS 2009. National Park Service Public Use Statistics Office. http: / /www.nature.nps.gov /stats JILT Conservation Plan — Recreation and Tourism Page 2 of 6 opportunities for drift boating, rafting, wildlife viewing, white water kayaking, fishing and hunting that are not available elsewhere within Jefferson County. DRIVING FORCES GROWTH AND CONVERSION There are tracts of open space that are especially important to the wild and naturally scenic character of the county, and their conversion to residential, commercial or industrial uses could have a large impact on certain recreation and tourism values. People are drawn to the area in part because it isn't commercialized and developed like so many other places, and if it were to conform to the patterns of sprawl, something essential would be lost. Jefferson County can and will continue to grow, but we must use that growth to enhance, not extinguish, the very things that make it such a spectacular place to live and visit. Growing communities will need the open space, natural landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities even more in the future. The community's response to the pressures that growth has on the natural landscapes and open spaces will have a critical impact on the quality of life of future generations. PUBLIC AWARENESS All across the rapidly growing Pacific Northwest people are looking back to the days when a favorite hillside, now scattered with houses, used to be an iconic scenic feature of the landscape - realizing the value of what they had after it's gone. Participants recognized that a lack of understanding about the true contribution of open spaces to our economic development and quality of life, allows for short - sighted changes to occur that can have permanent impacts on our region's identity and disposition. MARKETS AND POLICY Most visitors to the Olympic Peninsula do a fair amount of traveling to get here, and rising fuel costs will be an underlying factor in their ability to make the trip. Increasing costs associated with protecting land, establishing recreation infrastructure, and stewardship of these resources are also primary market factors the community identified as affecting the recreation and tourism potential of the future. Important sources of funding to help meet these rising costs often are born from supportive public policy. While the private land of Jefferson County is the scenic foundation for residents and visitors alike, it is largely the public lands that offer the recreation opportunities. Conservation efforts to maintain the scenic qualities of the county and increase the recreation lands network are ultimately dependent on long -term funding sources and their prioritization in public policy. CLIMATE CHANGE Vulnerability to climate change is a function of exposure and adaptive capacity. Our nature - based recreation and tourism sectors deep reliance on scenic, accessible and extensive natural landscapes is one primary exposure we have. Scenic resources could be diminished by the predicted increase in forest fire, disease and drought, while changes in populations and distributions of wildlife may reduce tourism appeal. The community also recognized increased storm damage, winter and spring flooding and rising sea levels will limit access to some of our treasured tourism destinations and recreation lands. Climate models have predicted the Pacific Northwest will experience less sever impacts from climate change, which could increase human migration Jefferson County as conditions intensify elsewhere. JLT Conservation Plan — Recreation and Tourism Page 3 of 6 The resiliency of our nature -based recreation and tourism resources will depend on how we respond to all the other driving forces. It will also depend on local and global initiatives to reduce emissions, effectively making the travel requirements associated with recreation or tourism opportunities a significant factor. ACHIEVING THE VISION PRIORITY PLACES Trails, greenbelts and accessible natural areas Shoreline and river access Scenic viewsheds Cultural places SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Thinking ahead and planning for change is a central message the community shared when considering how to preserve our natural resources to augment nature -based recreation and tourism. There was particular focus on the importance of conserving areas for recreation and scenic values around our towns. The opportunities for conservation of these areas are increasingly limited, yet their importance to the livability and attraction of our towns is increasing. The community recognizes that now may be the best time we will ever have to secure a legacy of open space and abundant areas for recreation for our neighborhoods and visitors. "[Open space] provide habitat and a mental health refuge" "Open space [and] natural beauty plays a huge role in the draw to our county." "The Quimper Wildlife Corridor... has tremendous value" "Chimacum Creek [offers] key open spaces accessible to dense residential areas" "[Respond to] need for recreation opportunities close to home" CONSERVATION ACTION: INCREASE NETWORK OF PERMANENT GREENBELTS WITHIN AND NEAR RESIDENTIAL AREAS PUBLICSUPPORT It was clear to much of the community that our successes and opportunities in conservation, recreation and tourism are inextricably linked and contingent on greater coordination between key stakeholders. The community emphasized the need to improve the level of public awareness about the benefits our wild and naturally scenic amenities provide. Increased awareness by the public, and policy- makers, will lead to increased levels of active public support for related protection efforts, as well as effective resistance to short - sighted actions that can produce permanent negative impacts. "Support local elected officials by providing the tools and training they need to be lead advocates for the intersection of commerce, conservation and recreation. We could really be a leader and model if we could do this right." JLT Conservation Plan — Recreation and Tourism Page 4 of 6 "[Support] public education of the values of our natural resources — cultivate a grassroots movement that values and protects the things that make this county so livable and desirable for commerce, recreation and tourism." "[Encourage] a commitment to collaboration at all levels in recreation, tourism and conservation efforts" "[Communicate] the opportunities to the broader public" "[Educate] the citizens in the communities about the values of [conservation efforts, recreation and tourism] and how they can complement each other." CONSERVATION ACTION: ENGAGE RECREATION AND TOURISM STAKEHOLDERS TO INCREASE PUBLIC AWARENESS OF BENEFITS, NEEDS AND OPPORTUNITIES IN LAND CONSERVATION INCENTIVES AND LOCAL ECONOMY The scenic and historical features of the county provide for cultural continuity over generations. They contribute to our sense -of -place and regional identity. They are also paramount to our local economy. Several studies° have arrived at the same conclusion over the years: the conservation of scenic open space and recreation lands is good for the local economy. Rising property values, increased spending on recreation, increased economic activity from the conservation action itself, increased attraction for tourism, enhanced quality of life and fewer residents traveling away to recreate, hazard mitigation and pollution control are just some of the ways conservation is recognized as an economic benefit for communities. It is also widely recognized that open space land provides more in tax revenue than it demands in public services, while the opposite is true for most suburban forms of residential development. This emphasizes the economic importance of a community being careful about identifying not only what natural and open spaces to conserve, but also especially careful about identifying those areas appropriate for development. "[Preserve] green spaces and unobstructed vistas ... [Resolve] lack of prioritization" "The Natural Environment IS the primary draw for tourism and recreation in our county— by far." "[Protect the] wildness — especially the west side rivers. Many people come to Jefferson County to experience the wild /rugged recreation." "People's experiences are very visual because they are not often actually on the water, or in the mountains, or swimming in the bay." "Prevent fragmentation of large resource lands — which provide jobs /commerce, recreation (and much more potential recreation), and scenic view sheds." Land Trust Alliance, 1994. "Economic Benefits of Land Protection ", Land Trust Alliance InfoPak Series. LTA Washington DC. JILT Conservation Plan — Recreation and Tourism Page 5 of 6 CONSERVATION ACTION: IDENTIFY AND PROTECT SCENIC AND CULTURAL LANDSCAPE FEATURES THAT HELP MAINTAIN THE WILD AND NATURALLY SCENIC CHARACTER OF OUR COUNTY ECOLOGY AND ADAPTATION The scenic open space and recreation lands protected today will provide ecological, social and economic benefits long into the future. They will also be important resources supporting our ability to adapt to climate change. The community expects that our adaptation to changes will include an increasing dependence on our local environment for resources, including energy and recreation resources for a growing population. A responding strategy presented widely by the community is to expand our network of trail corridors. Improving safe travel linkages for non - motorized use between people and recreation areas would increase access, improve quality -of- life, and attract more visitors. "[Promote] further development of walking and bicycling trails and routes" "[Resolve] Lack of trail network for walking and biking... Provide areas for safer biking" "[Improve] connectivity between recreational and open space areas" "[Increase] beach access and connecting trails between public lands" "Encourage regional self- sufficiency" CONSERVATION ACTION: EXPAND TRAIL CORRIDOR NETWORK TO INCREASE CONNECTIVITY BETWEEN TOWNS AND RECREATION AREAS JLT Conservation Plan — Recreation and Tourism Page 6 of 6 IN PERSPECTIVE Habitat has long been a central focus of JLT conservation efforts dness of the county is a defining characteristic that is enjoyed and appreciated by all d at the edge of wetlands and watch the busy birds, the quiet newts and f ie of water we walk along the streams cascading out of the hills and into the bays; wi rmined salmo hing their way upstream; we crouch and inspect the colorful crabs, I beds and sea stars shoreline; we discover wildlife sign as we hike through forest tr e live with ildlife all arou and we want to keep it that way. Habitat conservation throughout the county has histori ighly focused on the streams, riparian forests and shoreline that hav atest impac he health and recovery of native salmon populations. Much has been do a is still a do. These efforts have established initiated work on protected ri n a nd cor that help link the estuarine and shoreline areas with inland forested ha s ' pr o riet ildlife passage upstream and downstream. Most of ting con a ' op scattered outside dense human populations, an are uncle d ing landsc pes. Others take place in and near the urban grow as, like th imper He Corridor and the Lower Chimacum Creek conservation area. Habitat conservation is t u ss studies, and our own personal experienc at a I e rich in wi abitat brings many benefits. Among them are the eco se ese apes provide, like cleaning our air and water, absorbing carbon fro mosphere, ing Ily scenic vistas, etc. Habitat conservation can take many form radients, and omp t other values and uses of the property. In order t er wildlife in t andscape for generations, and enjoy the multiple benefits, there simply need an adequ mount of quality habitat and linkages between core habitat areas. UNIQUE CHARACTE AN s The habitat diversity county is astonishing. A hike from the west end of the county to the east would take you from Pa 1fic Coast shoreline and forests, through temperate rain forest valleys and up wild river canyons, to the sub - alpine meadows and craggy summits of the Olympic Mountains, then down through dense forested eastern slopes and cascading rivers, to coastal wetlands and the inland sea. The western three - fourths of the Olympic Peninsula is part of the coastal temperate rain forest zone, receiving an average of 90 to over 150 inches of rain annually. Temperate rain forests are a rare ecosystem type, originally constituting 0.02% of the earth's total land area'. The majority of the primeval lowland temperate rain forests of West Jefferson County have been harvested and the land JILT Conservation Plan — Habitat Page 1 of 6 is currently under cultivation for commercial timber production, offering variable habitat values and qualities. A portion of the original lowland temperate rain forests of the Olympic Peninsula is federally protected for habitat and low- impact public use in the boundaries of the Olympic National Park (ONP). The entire 30- mile -long and one - mile -wide coastal belt of Jefferson County is also within public ownership by the ONP and managed primarily for habitat, with the exception of the Hoh Reservation and a small corner of the Quinault Reservation near Queets. The State of Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is also a major landowner in the West, managing most of their lands exclusively for timber production and revenue for funding public institutions, such as schools. Other DNR lands are maintained for wildlif�iabitat, particularly those in or near riparian or wetland areas, or for the purpose of forestry land in the West is held by commercial timber companies and Real The management of these lands is subject to the state Forest Pr levels of habitat protection from intensive harvest regimes, a The largest private non - commercial timber landowner is 7,000 acres along the Hoh River corridor managed for rivers of West Jefferson County are relatively undev although they have experienced adverse effects f in road building, sedimentation, and removal of large Olympic Peninsula river systems has lead to the Wild S salmon habitat strongholds, one of onlydhaLty -six acros strongholds produce more than half of Washington's chinook salmon. The bulk of the land base in Sout providing large blocks of transportation corridor an( community centers, s the t inches near highway and 90 mix with Hood Canal br wa support Canal ar 's R Most of the private Investment Trusts (REITs). lob River TrM conservation which provide marginal and enforced by DNR. T), with nearly toration. The and still maintain a quality of all mTor West targeting them as Pacific North Pacific. These eelhead, and 40 percent of e ymaj ed 3"rivate and public forestland, p op me ser to the shoreline and Iial residential development and rural Iruilcene. Rainfall averages between 40 ter valleys. Rivers flo wing from the Olympics dea'Vmperature and water conditions that e world. Rivers and streams flowing into Hood rote and survival of the federally listed local summer chum, and bull of these ids spend a large part of their early lives in the estuaries, and conditions IWd C3 We essential to their continued survival. Representing some of the RWntact and fund g ma bay habitat in the Puget Sound area, Dabob Bay has recently a d protection us by the state as the Dabob Bay Natural Area Preserve and Natural Resource Co tion Area. The Northeast Je area experiences far less rainfall than the other two areas and has a landscape further re" rom the steep slopes and rushing rivers of the Olympic Mountains. Rainfall averages betwe Men inches a year near Port Ludlow and 19 inches a year in Port Townsend. The land is dominated by lowland forests and agricultural valleys. Historically there were also native prairie landscapes and oak woodlands mixed with dry conifer forests. Other unique habitat assets include the productive Discovery Bay and the Protection Island National Wildlife Refuge, and the peninsular geography increasing the maritime influence on the habitat. Northeast watersheds are spring fed with lowland headwater lake /wetland complexes. Due to low precipitation these small creek systems are more prone to cyclical problems of low summer and early fall flows than other watersheds in the county. Creeks such as Salmon, Snow and Chimacum support ESA listed Summer JLT Conservation Plan — Habitat Page 2 of 6 Run Chum populations while their estuaries provide rearing and migratory habitat for other salmon populations and wildlife. DRIVING FORCES AFFECTING HABITAT GROWTH AND CONVERSION The community cited the conversion of habitat areas associated with projected human population growth and development as a driving force posing the gravest threat to habitat protection and restoration. Habitat fragmentation as a result of urban and rural sprawl,& well as increased impervious surfaces were identified by the community as potential re f poor planning, unmanaged development and growth patterns which would impa ife habitat negatively. PUBLIcAWARENESS There was a clear message from the community about th ortant \hai the current and future populations of the county in the long -term succ abitat rts. They made a distinct association between the community unders g the beneotection and the overall effectiveness of protection effort s. Th lit underst ction must be considered a fundamental driving force, particul hen c te growth of the population and an uncertain economic future. MARKETS AND POLICY Full engagement in habitat protection to a ordinat on of the community requires leadership, effective partnerships, and a co tible ewo a community shared the sentiment that without a co ed appro they of a enough habitat protection measures in place to kee a proi.e Is of gro ; no one organization, project, or policy will achieve the alone. coordi approach is going to require using several different tools that ote private Ivement public investment, and it is going to require bold leadership. CLIMATE CHA Partici ted c than veral times as an important driving force. Globally, scientists con!. is the greate ving affecting habitat. Receding glaciers, reduced snowpack, lowe er water flow fting ' itation patterns, increase in invasive species, rising sea levels a nging shorelin namics re all acute predicted changes that will have a dramatic impact on t rrent distrib , quality and diversity of species and habitat types. Species across the county are' be s ed into adjusting to the rapid rate of change that is currently occurring. Habit I c and the ability of species to maintain their viability will depend largely on the availa esources, as well as the availability of corridors allowing movement to suitable conditions as t y attempt to adjust to a warmer Olympic Peninsula. ACHIEVING THE VISION Priority Places: • Rivers, Streams and Lakes • Natural Ecosystems • Wildlife Corridors JLT Conservation Plan — Habitat Page 3 of 6 • Bays, Shorelines and Estuaries To focus future efforts, JLT has produced the Priority Habitat map in Appendix X to guide the development and Implementation of these new campaigns. Achieving a vision requires action. The following actions are based on input from the community and 1LT's mission. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT In order to counter the destructive effects that could occur from the Most of the projected growth is expected to be concentrated county, in the Port Townsend — Tri -Area (Port Hadlock, Chirya "Encourage development plans for] rural "Encourage infill in developed areas "[Encourage] well plan levels of growth, the )acts to important ern portion of the Port Ludlow corridor. the areas •demand for more clustered development in QUALITY -OF -LIFE IN OUR COMMUNITIES AND m measures in perpetuity is to have broad local support. of habitat conservation indirectly, sharing the benefits of �iential opportunities can increase the appreciation and munity vision. JLT develop public education programs focused on the grams could also identify the consequences of not taking actions it. The community stressed the importance of including youth in and increasing the overall awareness and participation by all sectors and ages of the community. Engaging people actively in the habitat conservation goals and benefits could result in several outcomes beneficial to the long term momentum of this community vision. "Educate the community about... indigenous floral and faunal resources, so that especially young people become aware of what we have and become invested in not losing those resources" "Education and opportunities for urbanites to spend time on the land gaining an appreciation of the delicate web of life necessary to participate in a healthy ecosystem" JLT Conservation Plan — Habitat Page 4 of 6 "Support ... educational conservation - oriented programs in the schools and community" "Build bird watching areas [on Quilcene Bay]" CONSERVATION ACTION: INVOLVE THE COMMUNITY IN HABITAT CONSERVATION PROJECTS AND CONNECT THEM DIRECTLY WITH WIDLIFE HABITAT INCENTIVES AND LOCAL ECONOMY Private land throughout the rural and urban areas can provide important habitat values to native wildlife, particularly the large working lands. The long -term conservatigi& a working landscape in Jefferson County is critical to the habitat protection vision of the working landscape working and ensure that wildlife habitat is pa Considering the driving forces of leadership, partnerships and4 that JILT promote market -based incentives and value- addeAro producers operate profitably and sustainably. working lands can afford to resist pressures to "Reduce fragmentation of the landscape" "Encourage corridor protection regim "[Protect] Large patches with conn with uplands)" We want to keep the munity recommended [Ly to help the NLe that owners of rian /floodplain connectivity AND PROMOTE INTO MANAGEMENT OF WORKING LANDS are the strands in the web of life that ns through habitat fragmentation is a pulation growth and associated development. Recognizing 7 conservation efforts on landscape level protection efforts planning and climate change also suggests working at a t level of species movements and adaptability in a changing sts that habitat conservation planning should focus on space and corridors for wildlife, limiting non - climate stressors "Encourage and support profitable working lands so that other development does not [encroach]" "Work with working lands owners to help them use their lands in a financially viable way— helping them... increase the market for their products" "[Promote] Incentives for landowners to manage land in concert with wildlife needs" "[Promote] Thoughtful management of agricultural and timber land to include consideration of habitat values..." JLT Conservation Plan — Habitat Page 5 of 6 "[Support] effectively integrating incentives, regulations, education /outreach and voluntary stewardship" CONSERVATION ACTION: DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT CRITICAL WILDLIFE CORRIDOR CONSERVATION CAMPAIGNS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTY JLT Conservation Plan — Habitat Page 6 of 6 Agricultural land is one of our most valuable land in Jefferson County have a legacy of ma their property. This legacy has contributed superior products, and local culture that we The quality and abundance of local this region. As early as the 1850'sl being cleared to make way for agri, produce food and fiber for the arm growing hops and dairy Chimacum Valley, Qu'A beets, peas and spi amplified by the n nearly 2 million acre this county agricultural living and working on farm e agricultural potential of t, pastoral views, e history of niy were v settlers to Valley was found to be good for :orrlWial crop in Leland Valley, Lwnsefl1Dd Marrowstone Island. 1hMLpro?Wion. Local green beans, iol9W Marrowstone Island, and at 1907 Brinnon residents were taking were popular well into the 1920s, to businesses and individuals alike. 77 5e county. Established cropland and vateTand in the county, or about 7,000 acres'. lays a profound role in our lives, and will become and economies adapt. This growing importance is agricultural land being lost to development at a rate of the prime farmland soils being the most frequently lost. In )me of the easiest and least expensive land to develop, soils are in areas too wet to be readily developable. Our farmland is also changing as a3alance is sought between improving salmon habitat conditions and maintaining productive operations. ' United States Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service. http://www.agcensus.usda.gov/ ' Calculated from percentages in 2007 Agricultural Census data, and Jefferson County Land Use Designation GIS data, 2008. 3 Farmland Information Center. http: / /www.farmlandinfo.org/ JILT Conservation Plan — Agriculture Page 1 of 6 Agriculture in Jefferson County also means shellfish farms in the prolific marine tidelands of the Northeast and Southeast. Oyster farming became established in the early 1900's around the Hood Canal communities, and today this industry represents nearly 75% of the Jefferson County's market value of agricultural products sold °. UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS AND ASSETS The lowland hills, valleys, plateaus and basins of the Northeast and Southeast have all been sculpted in large part by glacial processes. The landscape features owe their existence to the slow movement of ice, rock and water over their surfaces for thousands of years, rasping out depressions in some places and leaving rocky and sandy deposits in others. Upon retreat of the ice sheets, the valleys and depressions became filled with se ' ent and went through the processes of organic accumulation. These thousands of y uccession have left Jefferson County with some exceptional soils. Mild temperatures are an attribute of the ranging between 38 in January and 61 in A season. Rainfall in the county varies consic on some farms in the West and as few as 1 farms. Yet the entire county undergoes an This consistent lack of rai plan accordingly with irrigation infl techniques. These conditions have DRIVING FORCES GROWTH AND CONVERSION F F ers can m it an average falling annually county. With averages n a year -round growing 0 inches annually falling of drought d eason req Fsrystem and water col that has Townsend e summer call farms to the ns indefinitely if is in the world. Miles production in the ely low levels of the hydrographic conditions of Hood are currently used for agriculture, armla 9Woils can be found there. Approximately found exclusively along the river corridors. The t sk of clearing the enormous forests to make t ese earliest of clearings continue to be maintained ation forests and important habitat of the rivers Development, and associated conversion of farm land will accelerate with projected future population growth. With increased development agricultural land often becomes fragmented in a way that makes it difficult for farmers to maintain profitable operations at appropriate scale. ° United States Department of Agriculture, National Agricultural Statistics Service. http: / /www.agcensus, usda.gov /Pu bl ications/ 2007 /Online_H igh I ights/ County _Profiles /Washington /cp530 31.pdf JILT Conservation Plan —Agriculture Page 2 of 6 As agricultural land is lost, core infrastructure for farming also retreats, increasing costs to the remaining farmers and encouraging future conversion to other uses. The subdivision of farm land located within or adjacent to population centers is of particular concern to many community members. As residential development encroaches towards agricultural lands, conflicts that increase the potential for conversion can occur. The community cited certain aspects of agricultural land use (dust, noise, odors, etc.) as incompatible with most people living in encroaching residential developments which can cause otherwise productive farmland to become less desirable for agricultural use, and subsequently sold for development. Farmers also expressed a growing concern about the potential threats to their water supply from excessive demand due to proliferation of residential wells. Other factors that weigh into the pressure to convert agricultural properties to otA'se ographics of the farmers themselves. The average age of principle farmey is 60.1 years, suggesting that there are growing numbers of current farmbeing ready to retire, particularly on the largest farm s. Those approac often have few options for securing retirement funds other than from the s it primary asset. For shellfish farms, a principal driving force i uses, but the increased development of the Erosion, run -off, and poor septic performance can have devastating affects on sh feeders, processing hundred ofga pollutants and toxic contaminants. I significant requirement for continued shoreline environment aadabe avails local economy or with I tidelands to other king tidelands. 51IWvelopment and sp are filter condition of the n to its important role in the community input where food comes from, resulting in . With a global food system that from farm to plate, people are less sect is combined with access to very u'n of highly processed products with little far ur farmers are the stewards of the pastoral views roducers of only a small portion of the food we eat: while ally, local food consumption makes up only 4% of the food n less in other parts of the county. A public perception that does not link the heal local economy, communities and environment to our local agricultural industry can resu n a lack of supportive public policy and funding that is critical to remaining competitive in global and local markets. MARKETS AND POLICY The production value of farmland, calculated from the value of farm products that can be produced on a property, is almost always less than the value of the land for non - agricultural uses. As population increases and development pressures increase, the price of agricultural land is driven up by speculators, the market demand for hobby farmettes or estates, and commercial development close to population centers. Some agricultural property values have risen to 400% in the last two decades. Higher land valuations increase the potential for higher property -tax bills, and can discourage investment in land and infrastructure improvements due JILT Conservation Plan —Agriculture Page 3 of 6 to the perception that there will be no return on such investments at the point of sale to potential non - agricultural buyers. Coinciding with the increasing price for agricultural land is the rising number of younger farmers unable to afford it. Local needs assessments completed in 2001 and 2006 by Washington State University identified affordability of land as the number one concern for existing and new farmers. Some farmers also clearly feel constrained by the accumulation of complex local, state, and federal regulations, which can be inconsistent and expensive to manage. Associated complexity and bureaucracy can be unintended deterrents to the development of necessary infrastructure to support and enhance agricultural operations and new types of agricultural enterprises. Particularly, existing policy is seen as a major restraint to facilities, supplying cafeterias with local foods, and maim highest development pressure. National price trends have affected the largest farm to transportation and farm supplies are also a maA Jefferson County, due partly to the lack of to in shipped out of the area for processing but t1T the Puget Sound. CLIMATE CHANGE The producers in the county are seasonal rainfall, temperatures, the past 150 years of production uncertainty and major e community recogni ongoing challenges. Ilfish fa increasing acidificatio a m< atmospher esefact e in Jeffe ere I profitable local processing farmland in areas with the Costs related -cial farms in the only are products i suppliers are east of county — predictable occurrences over :limate patterns present an I tion. Particularly, the 6;ce that will present rater temperatures, and severely reducing oyster seed production Lat the effects of climate change will big in a loss of harvest opportunities. Productive shorelillRbLnd associM nearshore environments Prime farmland soils amor "roductivity Proximity to population SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Farmers in Jefferson County have been working hard to adapt to changing market conditions and resist conversion pressures for decades. 2007 agriculture census data indicate a gain in the number of Jefferson County farms and amount of land being farmed since 1997, yet there has been a net loss of about 3,000 acres of farmland since the early 1980's. Looking back even further, the 1910 census identifies nearly 2S0% more agricultural land in the county than in the 2007 census. When asked to identify specific places that represent important agricultural land that should be protected for future generations, the community repeatedly focused their attention on JLT Conservation Plan — Agriculture Page 4 of 6 farmland in or near towns and along highways (see Agriculture Conservation Planning map). Subject to the greatest development pressures, they are also some of the most visible, longest lived, and most productive. The Jefferson County Unified Development Code includes a `right to farm' provision designed to help agricultural land maintain its ability to be farmed as it becomes surrounded by development. Several studies also show that farms closer to urbanizing areas can be more viable given their access to markets for high -value products, access to larger pools of seasonal laborers, location for agritourism opportunities, and direct marketing opportunities. "[Support] agricultural land protection in Port Townsend" "[Protect] pockets of agricultural land near urban areas for small locally- serving farms" "Utilize the land in ways that minimize the need for tran "[Protect] pockets of parks, wildland, and farms interspf "[Protect] a mixture of agricultural, recreational and Public support is the foundation local agricultural products, respr funding support organizations. i of agricultures importance and c understanding throu c agriculture in the c an brings to the region lity of "Educate public and reliance in food produ Is over long distances" communities interspersed" POPULATION CENTERS, s — buying blic policy, e from having an understanding nun To achieve a greater level of Led t ed to tell the story of Bing I agricultural industry e n focus these outreach efforts 3ders. Srveral producers are already riding in new ways. Particularly, the roughout the Northeast and Southeast to the general population — things that supports local farmers [and provides] a the need to support our farmers and increase our self "Encourage the spread of [farmers] knowledge and success, help them deal with difficulties when then arise" CONSERVATION ACTION: CONNECT AGRICULTURAL LANDS, PRODUCTS AND PRODUCERS WITH LOCAL POPULATION INCENTIVES AND LOCAL ECONOMY Participants highly value the available agricultural land in the county. They recognize producers face many challenging market and policy forces and often times take great risks in maintaining their operations. The community agreed that we will become increasingly reliant on the local 1LT Conservation Plan —Agriculture Page 5 of 6 agricultural lands, and that there must be incentives available now to help ensure agricultural land remains available for production in the future. Market tools such as favorable tax credits and the purchase of development rights could be particularly useful tools, as they not only can reduce the risk of conversion they can also improve the possibilities for new farmers. There was also specific support for the concept of linking local investors with interested farmers for the expansion of operations or development of new opportunities. Policy improvements were also suggested as potential incentives to maintaining viable farms, including those dealing with local processing, and consumption of local food in local institutions. Several suggestions for improving opportunities for new farmers also were shared by participants. When current landowners are ready to sell or their property, financing mechanisms need to be in place that encourage the transfe farmers, versus non - agricultural uses. The community syA This could take many forms, i that is streamlined and proportional; "Tackle barriers to buying for "[Raise] more funding 6to the next generation of 3 governmental support for important way to contribute to kKing a regulatory approach NeW potential careers in =_tirarmers with new for land rich FARMLAND CONSERVATION, In Jefferson IMulture and ecosystem health. This is a icated by projected effects of climate change. ecially during our annual late summer drought. In order to we must manage our water transfer of water rights, water banking etc." "[Promote] education and encouragement about using existing water rights" "Share water with Fish and Agriculture" "[Adequate] water is needed to ensure a viable agricultural economy" CONSERVATION ACTION: SUPPORT CREATIVE SOLUTIONS TO WATER RESOURCE SCARCITY AND QUALITY FOR HABITAT AND AGRICULTURAL USES JILT Conservation Plan — Agriculture Page 6 of 6 IN PERSPECTIVE The evergreen forests of the Olympic Penins residents and visitors for generations. They are another —our ancestors first came here to work in allure of the towering evergreen trighLnd we co, surroundings. They are the definin a ch, and they are an integral part of our ec Covered in a carpet of least in part for thIt . near a working for industrial forests, produce the clean wat we use. com more pra es than ever I increases i rson County convert works ests to oth increases as it be s more with other market a ulat resulted in the convers f K In Washington, over 200, Another recent study' calcul with conversion to other uses, captured the hear brought many of us rests or 'lIs; we are N w play am ;te are a foun imaginations of n one way or n here by the n orested economy; working forests, managed at fferson County, you are 9 all family forests, private anaged well, they help we watch, and the lumber gh ed in ves to manage their forests in a way that abitat n her ecosystem services. They also have properti ther uses. As residential development e lopment occurs outside of the towns, pressure to gro a underlying market value of the forest land le and active for residential development, which combines s to motivate forest landowners to sell. This trend has forests to residential development throughout the county. orests were lost to development between 1978 and 2001'. 11.5% of Jefferson County forest lands are highly threatened nting over 22,000 acres. This same study calculates nearly ' WA Dept. Natural Resources, April 2007. Future of Washington's Forests. http://www.dnr.wa.gov/Publications ' UW College of Forest Resources, March 2009. Retention of High - Valued Forest Lands at Risk of Conversion to Non - Forest Uses in Washington State. http: // www. nwenvironmentalforum .org /retention.htmi JLT Conservation Plan —Forestry Page 1 of 6 90% of the northeast and southeast Jefferson County private timber land not currently enrolled in the Designated Forest Land Tax Program' as being at high risk for conversion. The Olympic Peninsula is a great place to grow trees, and the private working forest landscape is a cornerstone of our local economy, landscape, and culture. Those working forests that present the best opportunity for sustainable production over time, and that provide the most public benefits, can be managed to have a long future — a future of providing jobs, resources, and environmental benefits if we let them. UNIQUE CHARACTERISTICS AND ASSETS any other ecosystems in the world. S our human and wildlife communities. National Park and Olympic National Forest, while protected from conversion because it is manag Resources trust lands. Approximately half of Jj forests (about 200,000 acres). Most of this prig Management Organizations (TIMO)° and Real Est The West is legendary for its trees. giant trees of the West have been are found here, as well as some of the of private timber landscape has been the landscape. Larf produc 710 mass per acre per year than ve re s an incredible gift for sustaining ly unty is managed as Olympic h ppro ely 15% is forestry land largely shington St epartment of Natural airing land base i e up of private working crest land is owned b ber Investment vestment rusts (REI ay in the mid- ntury, the tan uction of timber p cts. With m annua a wettest places in the lower 48 e prima d use of private land in the imber ction land. These vast areas we I tats d utilize some of the most pro tion. by workin ests, although with a higher f the landscape associated with u t are situated in the lower elevations east I n al conditions for growing trees, such as tation levels, make the private working re i the county. is surroundings for the largest population Is and ownership blocks are interspersed with ion corridors. Much of the originally forested Jortheast, yet it still maintains a dominant role in Pt land ownerships by investor organizations encompass the n this part of the peninsula. This area also has the highest 3 WA State Forest Land and Timber Tax (RCW 84.33 and WAC 458 -40) system for taxing forest lands and harvested timber designed to provide uniform, predictable, and fair taxes for forest landowners. Wilent, Steve. "Investors Increase Timberland Holdings ". The Forestry Source. December, 2004. JLT Conservation Plan — Forestry Page 2 of 6 DRIVING FORCES GROWTH AND CONVERSION The community recognized the conversion of working forests as the principal threat to a sustainable forestry economy in the county. As illustrated in the 'much of the working forest landscape could be impacted by rural sprawl -type development. Beyond simply taking the available forest land base out of production, conversion of forest lands can increase the fragmentation of working forest. Cumulative impacts from fragmentation can make isolated forest land more costly to manage, predisposing the laoiLto be sold for conversion to more residential and commercial development. Support infrastruS impacted as less land is being managed for production. PUBLIC AWARENESS Impacts from earlier logging practices and of caused the severe degradation of important being championed by public institutions and dollars. While timber production has been c providing benefits such as jobs, lum and i products industry is largely correlat�i motivating forest CLIMATE CHANGE is mills and log yards are also roducts industry have om these impacts is S, ly funded by public efor a century /arenes eforest -s such as quality and )rking forest I scapes, to harvest plans, further opment. With improved k,heds provided by the enormous influences on both the The community acknowledges that f working forests can remain profitable imodity timber products grown in tplace. The affordable access to those sT d the loss of local sawmills over the past several the ied forestry movement, and non - timber forest the community as driving forces that will have a significant on the Olympic Peninsula, Community concern about climW change affecting forestry in Jefferson County is supported by the latest predictions and models. Average annual temperatures are projected to increase 2 °F by the 2020s and 3 °F by the 2040s compared with averages for 1970 -1999. Higher temperatures will directly affect tree growth, water needs and evapotranspiration, impacts of forest insects, and wildfire. Average annual precipitation is not currently projected to change significantly, but more winter precipitation will fall as rain. Snowpack is expected to melt earlier in the spring, extending which may result in higher magnitude flooding events and may extend the fire season. These predicted higher summer temperatures, less snowpack and earlier spring snowmelts will increase the summer water deficit in Jefferson County, which predictably will increase the incidence and JLT Conservation Plan — Forestry Page 3 of 6 magnitude of fire in forests. The drought stress will also subject forests to increased likelihood of damage from insect infestation. ACHIEVING THE VISION Priority Places: • Land with high site productivity • Buffers to habitat preserves • Buffers to public timberlands • Recreation and scenic viewshed lands • Large management units SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT Maintaining a working forest landscape arou considering all the driving forces. These popula forests on the urban and sub -urban fringe, yet exa forests can play in countering spra a commun community development with fores S Community Forestry —is a model of w of and access to a clearly defined forest benefits from the socioeconomic. Colo ing population cen a difficult proposition enters threaten the a to maintain working from a s the worMlIfthasize the role it o t JLT work to rate mec community fores ext Box: manage where a community has ownership ates in ' ions concerning the forest, and Working forests, st gme y xten eve population centers a in trans tion co pressure on these critic sts, al y offering benefits. ommu re se fores growl all t work, " [Uti reative meth o fac the] p "[Suppo lopmentof] -use ts — openll recreational n bed within 5 miles of our eas elopment will raise conversion Five scenic, nomic and ecosystem sent the greatest opportunity to connect a ore sts o e parcels for community forestry" �up forested areas to low- impact "[Establish and plWtt] forest lanWat are d"Red locally, where harvest revenue stays local" CONSERVATION 7M: DEVE ND IMPLMENT CAMPAIGNS FOCUSED ON THE ESTABLISHMENT OF PERMANENT COMM OCATED NEAR RESIDENTIAL AREAS PUBLIC SUPPORT Forestry in the 21" century is going to be different than forestry in the 2 W century. While forestry can be damaging to habitat, water quality, and other community values, it does not have to be, and cannot continue to be if it is going to be sustainably managed for future generations. For productive working forests to continue to provide ongoing benefits and resources, there must be broad public recognition of these benefits, and support for the responsible and sustainable management of working forests. JLT Conservation Plan —Forestry Page 4 of 6 Through education and other outreach programs, the community suggested that JLT can play a role in promoting greater local understanding of the benefits of working forest. Bringing the value of our working forest landscape to the attention of those that benefit from it can improve the opportunities for maintaining that working landscape. "Promote the benefits of working forests" "Celebrate appropriate management of forestry lands, and celebrate contribution to local economy" "Develop coordinated messages and education strategy for working forestlands on the Olympic Peninsula" Ak INCENTIVES AND LOCAL ECONOMY Most forest products from Jefferson County are global marketplace. This global influence, co when it is more profitable to maintain a work4i higher than timber values, changing regulations, prevent conversion of working ecological services are soil productivity, biodiversity, air ECOLOGY AND ADAPTATION fluctuations in the factors, can determine kL With land values centives to s, each their own .urs. Exa les of habitat and ment rights, financial -turing infrastructure. ilarly, the community recommended the eir habitat, social, and economic values. as part of overall conservation strategies" MENT OF CERTIFIED FOREST PRODUCTS INDUSTRY LOCALLY AND The ecological services such as clean water, clean air, and wildlife habitat that our surrounding forests provide are made possible by their connectivity and scale. Maintaining a landscape of sustainably managed forests will ensure the native plants and animal species that have existed here for millennia will have a foundation of undeveloped land for adapting to climate change and other challenges. Furthermore, protecting our forested landscape from conversion will allow forests to perform some of the planet's most efficient carbon sequestration work. JLT Conservation Plan —Forestry Page 5 of 6 Responding to the changing market, regulatory and environmental conditions of the 21" century will also require a large enough base of forests for the forest products industry to be able to adapt to both the predictable and unpredictable. TIMC's and REIT's own the large privately owned forested blocks in our county. How they choose to manage those lands will have a tremendous influence on the future of forestry, and on the ability of the community to realize its Vision. The nation's largest working forest land conservation agreements have been made with these types of forest land investment organizations, which provides a promising perspective for our own community's conservation efforts. "Protect large blocks of productive land now —time is of the "Focus on conservation strategies with large landowners" "[Ensure there continues to be] large forest lands in c to processing and markets" LAND CONSERVATION 1LT Conservation Plan — Forestry Page 6 of 6 ON CO µ �K JEFFERSON COUNTY PUBLIC HEALTH QgsN 2 615 Sheridan Street • Port Townsend • Washington • 98368 www.jeffersoncountypublichealth.org June 7, 2010 JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AGENDA REQUEST TO: Board of County Commissioners Phillip Morley, County Administrator FROM: Jean Baldwin, Director Tami Pokorny, Environmental Health Specialist DATE: June 14, 2010 SUBJECT: Agenda Request: Public Hearing Regarding Applications for Conservation Futures Funding in 2010 STATEMENT OF ISSUE: The Conservation Futures Ordinance No. 06- 0708 -02 requires a duly noticed public hearing to be held as part of the public process of allocating conservation futures funding to worthy projects that protect public open spaces. On May 17, 2010 the BoCC approved a Public Hearing Notice for the Conservation Futures Program project applications for 2010. The notice was published on May 19 and May 26, 2010. Staff requests that the BOCC hold a public hearing on June 14, 2010 as scheduled, at 10:15 AM. ANALYSIS /STRATEGIC GOALS: Two applications for funding were received in 2010 and a total of $263,394 requested over two years to support open space projects in Jefferson County. The two applications are: Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition, $63,394 towards the permanent protection of 160 acres of vacant land off of West Uncas Road near the head of Discovery Bay. Proposed match would be up to $359,231 in COMMUNITY HEALTH PUBLIC HEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AC��AYSWORKINGFORASALTH WATER QUALITY MAIN: 360385-9400 HEALTHIER COMMUNITY MAIN: 3603859444 FAX:3603859401 FAX: 360379-4487 Salmon Recovery Funding Board grant funds through the WA Recreation and Conservation Office previously awarded to the project. Jefferson Land Trust is the sponsor. Project location: Sec. 27, T. 29N, R. 2W. 2. Tamanowas Rock and Nicholson Short Plat, $200,000 over two years towards the permanent protection of 129 acres of vacant land near Anderson Lake State Park. Proposed match would be a combination of federal, state and /or foundation grants and community contributions. Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and Washington State Parks are project applicants. Jefferson Land Trust is the sponsor. Project location: Sec. 10, T. 29N, R. 1W. Nicholson Short Plat is a replat of Nicholson's Irondale Reservoir Addition. After the Public Hearing, the BOCC may determine which project(s) may receive conservation futures funding. For successful projects, grant agreements between the project sponsor and the county will be developed by Water Quality Division and submitted to the BoCC in coming weeks. When approving any of the projects for funding, a factual finding is necessary in order to meet the requirements of Chapter 449, Laws of 2005. The BoCC is asked to consider whether, despite the approved purchases, the County would still retain enough "developable" land to accommodate the housing and employment growth that it is expected to receive (Ref D. Alvarez Memo, 08/12/05). This briefing packet contains: • Two conservation futures applications and supporting documentation 1). Salmon Creek Riparian Acquisition, $63,394 2). Tamanowas Rock and Nicholson Short Plat, $200,000 over two years • Map of conservation futures projects 2003 -2009 • Matrix of conservation futures projects 2003 -2009 • Email from Jefferson County Department of Community Development regarding the Salmon Creek as well as the Tamanowas Rock and Nicholson Short Plat Projects • Draft resolutions for each of the proposed projects with the award amounts left blank The purpose of the CF Ordinance is to address the "general and increasing need to provide a system of public open spaces... for the health, welfare, benefit and safety of the residents of Jefferson County," and to maintain "Jefferson County as a desirable place to live, visit and locate businesses." Conservation futures tax levy collections, authorized under RCW 84.34.230 are an important means of retaining community character and accomplishing open space policies and objectives of the Jefferson County Comprehensive Plan. The goal of the ordinance is to preserve and protect the county's open space resources from development, and from being "negatively and permanently affected." COMMUNITY HEALTH PUBLIC HEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ALWAYS WORKINGFORASALTH NATURALRESOURCES FAX: 360-385-9401 HEALTHIER COMMUNITY MAIN: 360385 -9444 FAX: 360 - 385 -9401 On January 3, 2006, the BOCC approved Ordinance No. 01- 0103 -06 in response to Chapter 449 of that year which allowed up to 15% of the conservation future levy monies raised in the preceding year to be used for operations and maintenance needs. However, no operations and maintenance funding was requested in these applications. Chapter 449 also states that local governments must consider and analyze whether new CF projects would reduce capacity to accommodate planned growth. In the accompanying correspondence, the Department of Community Development recommends that the proposed acquisitions not be found to reduce the County's capacity to accommodate growth. FISCAL IMPACT: The explicit purpose of the Conservation Futures Program is to fund acquisition projects to support a system of public open spaces. There is no impact to the General Fund for this effort. The funds available to 2010 projects are $161,000. Funds available to projects in 2011 are anticipated to be well in excess of the $100,000 requested by the Tamanowas Rock and Nicholson Short Plat Project. RECOMMENDATION: In accordance with the Conservation Futures Ordinance, and to facilitate a timely public process, JCPH Management recommends that the BOCC hold a public hearing on June 14, 2010, at 10:15 AM. After the hearing, the BoCC may decide which project(s) to fund and make a factual finding for each project as to whether it would reduce the County's capacity to accommodate growth. Management also recommends that the BoCC consider the draft resolutions accompanying this request. REVIEWED BY: p Mo ey, ' trator Date COMMUNITY HEALTH HEALTH ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH PUBLIC HEA DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ALWAY$WORKINGFORASALTH NATURALRESOURCES MAIN: 360 -385 -9400 HEALTHIER COMMUNITY MAIN: 360385 -9444 FAX: 360-385-9401 FAX: 360 -385 -9401