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HomeMy WebLinkAboutLETTER OF SUPPORT Jamestown S'Klallam Land Transfer JEFFERSON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS CONSENT AGENDA REQUEST TO: Board of County Commissioners FROM: Heidi Eisenhour, Commissioner District 2 DATE: May 26,2026 RE: LETTER OF SUPPORT: Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026 STATEMENT OF ISSUE: The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026 is a proposed piece of federal legislation aimed at transferring the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuge into trust for the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. Because both refuge areas hold such extraordinary ecological significance, it is a source of significant regional pride for both the Tribe and the broader Jefferson County community. We have been hearing from constituents who are both supportive of this transfer and who oppose it. Those who oppose the transfer are especially concerned the tribe will emphasize aquacultural activities in these refuge areas. The Tribe has asked us to send a letter of support to Senators Murray and Cantwell as well as Representative Randall as they maintain profound historical and cultural ties to the island and the surrounding waters. The proposed land transfer legislation recognizes the Tribe's longstanding connections and represents an important step toward restoring ancestral connections and honoring the Tribe's sovereign relationship with Protection Island. They have also been involved in managing the Dungeness Spit Wildlife Refuge through an agreement inked in the late 1980's, and through the Tribe's 2024 self-governance agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have been managing both the Dungeness Spit and Protection Island Wildlife Refuges for the past couple of years. FISCAL IMPACT: There is no fiscal impact. RECOMMENDATION: Discuss what we've been here, consider signing—and potentially updating -the draft letter of support and send an original to Representative Emily Randall and Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell. REVIEWED BY: e'; /'0-06f&O 5/g o 7-•)- J•_ Peters, County Administrator Date oi CoN�ssr Board of County Commissioners 4w�s co gt 1820 Jefferson Street m ti PO Box 1220 Port Townsend, WA 98368 ' O Heather Dudley-Nollette,District 1 Heidi Eisenhour,District 2 Greg Brotherton,District 3 S1/ING't May 26,2026 Representative Emily Randall 1531 Longworth House Bldg Washington, D.C. 20515 RE: Support for The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026 Dear Representative Randall: On behalf of Jefferson County, Washington, we write to express the County's support for"The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026," legislation that would transfer former National Wildlife Refuge lands, comprising the Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges, to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. The Tribe is a highly collaborative and well-respected partner to Jefferson County, and we recognize the deep historical and cultural connections that the Tribe maintains with the lands and waters impacted by this legislation. These sites are not only central to the Tribe's heritage but are also integral to the ecological health and quality of life for our entire region. Protection Island, located within Jefferson County, is of particular importance to our constituents. The island provides critical nesting habitat for tufted puffins, rhinoceros auklets, glaucous-winged gulls and many other species of seabirds and raptors. The waters surrounding Protection Island also provide essential grounds for a variety of marine mammals, and the island's shorelines support a WA Department of Natural Resources designated marine aquatic reserve . Because Protection Island holds such extraordinary ecological significance, it is a source of significant regional pride for both the Tribe and the broader Jefferson County community. The Tribe maintains profound historical and cultural ties to the island and the surrounding waters. The land transfer legislation recognizes the Tribe's longstanding connections and represents an important step toward restoring ancestral connections and honoring the Tribe's sovereign relationship with Protection Island. Through the Tribe's 2024 self-governance agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its expenditure of its own supplemental funds, the Tribe has demonstrated a strong financial commitment to improving Protection Island for the benefit of researchers and the greater Jefferson County area alike. Since assuming management of the island, the Tribe has already revitalized habitat research studies, rebuilt the access road, and initiated vegetative management to support island prairie habitat. Wage We are confident that upon transfer into trust status,the Tribe will continue to manage both former Refuges to a standard that will meet or exceed federal requirements. Jefferson County has familiarity with the Tribe's ability to manage lands through the Tamanowas Rock Sanctuary and trail network, which are open to the public and well monitored by the Tribe. Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and Jefferson County Land Trust partnered on the acquisition of Tamanowas Rock sanctuary lands from 2009—2012 and the area showcases the Tribe's ability to steward lands for cultural purposes, conservation and public access. The County further notes that Protection Island is not currently subject to local property taxation as federal public land and if the island is transferred into trust status on behalf of the Tribe, it will not result in any loss of property tax revenue to the County. However, the Tribe has agreed to assume through the legislation the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's existing obligations to Jefferson County for payment in lieu of taxes and refuge revenue sharing, at a prorated rate tied to the federal statutory payment rate, to ensure that the County will continue to receive these valuable payments following transfer. This is a key consideration in the Board of County Commissioner's decision to support the legislation, and the County is pleased that the land transfer is structured to protect Jefferson County from any potential negative fiscal impact. For these reasons,Jefferson County respectfully urges the delegation to support and advance "The Jamestown Land Transfer Act of 2026."We appreciate your consideration of this legislation and your ongoing commitment to constructive and locally-driven solutions that will benefit Tribal Nations and all residents within the State of Washington. Sincerely, Heather Dudley-Nollette, Dist. 1 Heidi Eisenhour, Dist. 2 Greg Brotherton,Dist. 3-Chair 2IPage Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe 1 ko04 ISLAND REF Dungeness & 0� Gc e. • / z L rn Protection Island i •_" ): li i . • 'in 1Iildlife ..a . � .Nato ,� . ." .-.ishr ,../ N 4 fy- J f U2- /..... .. . , . „„, .., Refuges FY2425 :; , ,, On Aug. 16, 2024,the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and U.S. Fish&Wildlife �jp.a ® .es Service entered into a historic co-stewardship agreement for the Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs).Over the past year, /® S+ •,1 the Tribe has worked diligently to fulfill objectives outlined in that agreement _ �' and with the National Wildlife Refuge System, including:wildlife monitoring; gym_. habitat restoration; community engagement;and cultural resource protection. , ,, 7"-& MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS , •Advanced habitat restoration across Dungeness NWR (including the . " Dawley Unit),and Protection Island NWR,improving more than six acres of ems' r. wetland,forest,prairie,and bluff habitats through invasive vegetation map- ping,manual removal,and targeted pesticide application. • Sustained prairie restoration on Protection Island, maintaining existing treated areas and supporting long-term recovery of culturally important and wildlife dependent plant communities. " • Conducted critical wildlife monitoring, including bird surveys, marine - mammal observations,and deployed autonomous wildlife monitoring , equipment. • Executed intensive European green crab trapping,capturing over 1,650 crabs and informing regional management strategies. a j - • Delivered public use,outreach,and education programs,strengthen- t ing community awareness of cultural values,wildlife protection,and refuge r , stewardship. • Expanded the volunteer program, recruiting new volunteers,complet- -- ing orientations,and supporting hundreds of hours of on-the-ground work 111410111111 in restoration, public engagement,and refuge operations. • Completed key facilities and maintenance projects, including: • Deferred maintenance repairs on the Protection Island NWR access road iitt -_� • Concrete installation for the Dungeness NWR pit toilets » Repairs to the Protection Island NWR marina dock -. • Strengthened partnerships and co-management,deepening coordi- - nation between Tribal refuge staff and conservation partners to support t� . restoration,monitoring,and community outreach. z Pun ner r Z . Prot ction Irlind National Wildlife Refuges FY24-25 HABITAT RESTORATION WILDLIFE SCIENCE AND INVASIVE SPECIES PUBLIC USE AND AND STEWARDSHIP RESEARCH MANAGEMENT: EDUCATION Across the Dungeness NWR Wildlife monitoring remained EUROPEAN GREEN CRAB The Tribe expanded the and Protection Island NWR, a central component of the The Tribe began monitor- refuge's public outreach the Jamestown S'Klallam Refuge Management Pro- ing and controlling inva- and education initiatives Tribe's Refuge Management gram's stewardship respon- sive European green crab to strengthen community Program focused on inva- sibilities.Monitoring efforts ("EGC")at Dungeness NWR connections and promote sive species control,habitat focused on documenting pop- in 2025,expanding upon stewardship of the refug- restoration and small-scale ulation trends,habitat use, USFWS efforts to protect the es'cultural and ecological enhancement of wetland, and species presence across bay's ecological unction and resources.These initiatives forest,grassland,and prairie the Dungeness and Protection native species.Tribal and re- play an key role in support- habitats. Island NWRs. gional EGC catch data high- ing refuge protection,foster- acres of habitat enhanced 2 0 game cameras installed on lighted a need for expanded ing community engagement, 2 0+ or being actively restored Protection Island NWR efforts at Dungeness for the and uplifting the Tribe's lbs.of creosote •Conducted seasonal surveys of pri- 3 0 2025 field season. leadership in conservation. ,0 0 0+ logs removed ority wildlife,including:Pacific Flyway Shorebird,Wintering Waterfowl,Brant, 1 64 3 EGC captured between 2 4 6 4 people reached at 1�7 species of native seed used Surface-nesting seabird and Deer Count April-September , various hosted events / in restoration projects surveys; Christmas Bird Count;and acres of refuge surveyed for invasive vegetation Purple Martin Breeding Success Survey increase from Education,presentation,and 200 on Protection Island 148 6% 2024 trapping 2.7 outreach events •Conducted comprehensive invasive •Conducted and assisted with monthly •Implemented intensive EGC trapping 75 00 n Visitors hosted at Coastal Observation and Seabird Sur- and monitoring program across three J Dungeness NWR vegetation mapping. veyTeam(Dungeness Spit)and pigeon keysites on Dungeness Spit •Developed electronic a •Held multiple work parties to manually ( g p ) g P P payment en guillemot(Dungeness NWR)surveys •Conducted targeted high-effort trap- trance fee available at Dungeness NWR remove priority invasive vegetation. Deployed automated recordingunits pingsessions •Partnered with Washington Conser- during peak activity,as (through recreation.gov) vation Corps on invasive vegetation (ARU)to record avian and nocturnal well as late fall and winter EGC trap- •Improved visitor services(enhanced and debris removal across all sites. wildlife presence and improve detec- ping once per month(October-March) safety messaging)and increased staff tion rates across both refuges. by boat. presence during high-use periods. VOLUNTEER PROGRAM FACILITIES AND GENERAL REFUGE Volunteers continued to play MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS a vital role in refuge opera- The Refuge Management Throughout the year,Tribal tions,providing meaningful Program maintained essen- staff provided consistent support to stewardship, tial infrastructure and facili- on-the-ground presence, restoration,and public en- ties across Dungeness NWR coordinated field activities, gagement efforts. The Tribe and Protection Island NWR maintained facilities and integrated longtime Refuge to ensure safe operations, equipment,and ensured volunteers with newly re- support habitat and wildlife compliance with refuge cruited,and volunteers of the management,and provide regulations.These core Dungeness River Nature Cen- access (public and private). functions supported every ter,creating the well-designed Maintenance focused on major program area,from Dungeness Nature Alliance. routine upkeep,safety restoration and wildlife 40 new volunteers added from improvements,and targeted monitoring to public use, two recruitment events repairs that support both volunteer coordination,and 200 registered volunteers with Dungeness Nature Alliance staff and visitor needs. invasive species control— •Completed deferred maintenance ensuring safe,efficient,and 4,800 total volunteer hours repairs of the Protection Island NWR uninterrupted operation at contributed access road,improving access and safety. •Hosted eight volunteer training •Completed concrete installation for the both refuges. courses in interpretation,safety,cul- pit toilets at Dungeness NWR enhancing tural resources,European green crab sanitation infrastructure for visitors. trapping,kiosk hosting •Completed needed repairs to the •Hosted monthly volunteer socials and Protection Island NWR marina dock five"idea-sharing"events •Clean-up of Dawley Tract to remove •Provided on-site mentoring and skill debris,deteriorating well house and development for volunteers storage shed,chain link fencing. p� ,0NM/Wssj Board of County Commissioners s c �4w OOP 1820 Jefferson Street tel PO Box 1220 Port Townsend, WA 98368 _co- Heather Dudley-Nollette,District 1 Heidi Eisenhour,District 2 Greg Brotherton,District 3 SNING'' May 26,2026 Senator Maria Cantwell 717 Senate Hart Bldg Washington, D.C. 20510 RE: Support for The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026 Dear Senator Cantwell: On behalf of Jefferson County, Washington, we write to express the County's support for"The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026,"legislation that would transfer former National Wildlife Refuge lands, comprising the Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges, to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. The Tribe is a highly collaborative and well-respected partner to Jefferson County, and we recognize the deep historical and cultural connections that the Tribe maintains with the lands and waters impacted by this legislation. These sites are not only central to the Tribe's heritage but are also integral to the ecological health and quality of life for our entire region. Protection Island, located within Jefferson County, is of particular importance to our constituents. The island provides critical nesting habitat for tufted puffins, rhinoceros auklets, glaucous-winged gulls and many other species of seabirds and raptors. The waters surrounding Protection Island also provide essential grounds for a variety of marine mammals, and the island's shorelines support a WA Department of Natural Resources designated marine aquatic reserve . Because Protection Island holds such extraordinary ecological significance, it is a source of significant regional pride for both the Tribe and the broader Jefferson County community. The Tribe maintains profound historical and cultural ties to the island and the surrounding waters. The land transfer legislation recognizes the Tribe's longstanding connections and represents an important step toward restoring ancestral connections and honoring the Tribe's sovereign relationship with Protection Island. Through the Tribe's 2024 self-governance agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its expenditure of its own supplemental funds,the Tribe has demonstrated a strong financial commitment to improving Protection Island for the benefit of researchers and the greater Jefferson County area alike. Since assuming management of the island, the Tribe has already revitalized habitat research studies, rebuilt the access road, and initiated vegetative management to support island prairie habitat. 11Page We are confident that upon transfer into trust status, the Tribe will continue to manage both former Refuges to a standard that will meet or exceed federal requirements. Jefferson County has familiarity with the Tribe's ability to manage lands through the Tamanowas Rock Sanctuary and trail network, which are open to the public and well monitored by the Tribe. Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and Jefferson County Land Trust partnered on the acquisition of Tamanowas Rock sanctuary lands from 2009—2012 and the area showcases the Tribe's ability to steward lands for cultural purposes, conservation and public access. The County further notes that Protection Island is not currently subject to local property taxation as federal public land and if the island is transferred into trust status on behalf of the Tribe, it will not result in any loss of property tax revenue to the County. However,the Tribe has agreed to assume through the legislation the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's existing obligations to Jefferson County for payment in lieu of taxes and refuge revenue sharing, at a prorated rate tied to the federal statutory payment rate,to ensure that the County will continue to receive these valuable payments following transfer. This is a key consideration in the Board of County Commissioner's decision to support the legislation, and the County is pleased that the land transfer is structured to protect Jefferson County from any potential negative fiscal impact. For these reasons, Jefferson County respectfully urges the delegation to support and advance"The Jamestown Land Transfer Act of 2026."We appreciate your consideration of this legislation and your ongoing commitment to constructive and locally-driven solutions that will benefit Tribal Nations and all residents within the State of Washington. Sincerely, Heather Dudley-Nollette, Dist. 1 Heidi Eisenhour, Dist. 2 Greg Brotherton, Dist. 3-Chair Wage Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe `r NV, T°- ® 1\O ISLgfy0 k Dungeness o `,,,,,_ . \ �F�r F .� �� �2 i n IslandProtect o .,, ...., .,..,,,,,,, ,, NationalWildhte _, Refuges FY24- 25 - .. 1. On Aug. 16, 2024,the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and U.S. Fish &Wildlife ' Aiwa Service entered into a historic co-stewardship agreement for the Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs).Over the past years •,, the Tribe has worked diligently to fulfill objectives outlined in that agreement -`'!' and with the National Wildlife Refuge System,including:wildlife monitoring; habitat restoration; community engagement; and cultural resource protection. 4, ' . _ , AMAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS ss ,- �.. {•Advanced habitat restoration across Dungeness NWR (including the 4. >f . Dawley Unit),and Protection Island NWR,improving more than six acres of $ .. -f - wetland,forest,prairie,and bluff habitats through invasive vegetation map- fir» •..,r`• : , ping,manual removal,and targeted pesticide application. • Sustained prairie restoration on Protection Island,maintaining existing treated areas and supporting long-term recovery of culturally important and 4 wildlife dependent plant communities. • Conducted critical wildlife monitoring, including bird surveys, marine , mammal observations,and deployed autonomous wildlife monitoring - '. ` e, ' equipment. . ; • Executed intensive European green crab trapping,capturing over 1,650 lir crabs and informing regional management strategies. , j • Delivered public use,outreach,and education programs,strengthen- • ing community awareness of cultural values,wildlife protection,and refuge stewardship. - • Expanded the volunteer program, recruiting new volunteers, complet- _ 4 ` �` ing orientations,and supporting hundreds of hours of on-the-ground work in restoration,public engagement, and refuge operations. - " �s • Completed key facilities and maintenance projects,including: ,,, - , • Deferred maintenance repairs on the Protection Island NWR access road "~--:-...`--. ;; „, • Concrete installation for the Dungeness NWR pit toilets t.- Repairs to the Protection Island NWR marina dock ' ;.. '" ,^'„' • Strengthened partnerships and co-management,deepening coordi- ' , nation between Tribal refuge staff and conservation partners to support restoration,monitoring,and community outreach. _ i Dung ness & Prot ction Island National Wildlife Refuges FY24-25 HABITAT RESTORATION WILDLIFE SCIENCE AND INVASIVE SPECIES PUBLIC USE AND AND STEWARDSHIP RESEARCH MANAGEMENT: EDUCATION Across the Dungeness NWR Wildlife monitoring remained EUROPEAN GREEN CRAB The Tribe expanded the and Protection Island NWR, a central component of the The Tribe began monitor- refuge's public outreach the Jamestown S'Klallam Refuge Management Pro- ing and controlling inva- and education initiatives Tribe's Refuge Management gram's stewardship respon- sive European green crab to strengthen community Program focused on inva- sibilities.Monitoring efforts ("EGC")at Dungeness NWR connections and promote sive species control,habitat focused on documenting pop- in 2025,expanding upon stewardship of the refug- restoration and small-scale ulation trends,habitat use, USFWS efforts to protect the es'cultural and ecological enhancement of wetland, and species presence across bay's ecological unction and resources.These initiatives forest,grassland,and prairie the Dungeness and Protection native species.Tribal and re- play an key role in support- habitats. Island NWRs. gional EGC catch data high- ing refuge protection,foster- acres of habitat enhanced game cameras installed on lighted a need for expanded ing community engagement, 2 0+ or being actively restored 2 0 Protection Island NWR efforts at Dungeness for the and uplifting the Tribe's 3 0,0 0 0 •Conducted seasonal surveys of pri- 2025 field season. leadership Ibs.ofcreosotein conservation. logs removed ority wildlife,including:Pacific Flyway Shorebird,Wintering Waterfowl,Brant, 1/6 4 3 EGC captured between 2 464 4 people reached at �7 species of native seed used Surface-nestingseabird and Deer Count April-September various hosted events 1 / + in restoration projects surveys; Christmas Bird Count;and Education,presentation,and Purple Martin BreedingSuccess Surveyincrease from 2 9 200 acres of refuge surveyed for 4 8 6% 2024 trapping outreach events invasive vegetation on Protection Island •Conducted and assisted with monthly •Implemented intensive EGC trapping J�7[ 0 O n Visitors hosted at •Conducted comprehensive invasive Coastal Observation and Seabird Sur- and monitoring program across three / Dungeness NWR vegetation mapping. vey Team(Dungeness Spit)and pigeon key sites on Dungeness Spit •Developed electronic payment en- •Held multiple work parties to manually guillemot(Dungeness NWR)surveys •Conducted targeted high-effort trap- trance fee available at Dungeness NWR remove priority invasive vegetation. •Partnered with Washington Conser= Deployed automated recording units ping sessions during peak activity,as (through recreation.gov) (ARU)to record avian and nocturnal well as late fall and winter EGC trap- •Improved visitor services(enhanced vation Corps on invasive vegetation wildlife presence and improve detec- ping once per month(October-March) safety messaging)and increased staff and debris removal across all sites. tion rates across both refuges. by boat. presence during high-use periods. VOLUNTEER PROGRAM FACILITIES AND GENERAL REFUGE Volunteers continued to play MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS a vital role in refuge opera- The Refuge Management Throughout the year,Tribal tions,providing meaningful Program maintained essen- staff provided consistent support to stewardship, tial infrastructure and facili- on-the-ground presence, restoration,and public en- ties across Dungeness NWR coordinated field activities, gagement efforts. The Tribe and Protection Island NWR maintained facilities and integrated longtime Refuge to ensure safe operations, equipment,and ensured volunteers with newly re- support habitat and wildlife compliance with refuge cruited,and volunteers of the management,and provide regulations.These core Dungeness River Nature Cen- access (public and private). functions supported every ter,creating the well-designed Maintenance focused on major program area,from Dungeness Nature Alliance. routine upkeep,safety restoration and wildlife new volunteers added from improvements,and targeted monitoring to public use, 40 two recruitment events repairs that support both volunteer coordination,and 20 0 registered volunteers with staff and visitor needs. invasive species control— Dungeness Nature Alliance ensuringsafe,efficient,and •Completed deferred maintenance 4,800 total volunteer hours repairs of the Protection Island NWR uninterrupted operation at contributed access road,improving access and safety. •Hosted eight volunteer training •Completed concrete installation for the both refuges. courses in interpretation,safety,cul- pit toilets at Dungeness NWR enhancing tural resources,European green crab sanitation infrastructure for visitors. trapping,kiosk hosting •Completed needed repairs to the •Hosted monthly volunteer socials and Protection Island NWR marina dock five"idea-sharing"events •Clean-up of Dawley Tract to remove •Provided on-site mentoring and skill debris,deteriorating well house and development for volunteers storage shed,chain link fencing. Coof NM ssr Board of County Commissioners 4w¢S c°U�o�, 1820 Jefferson Street o ti PO Box 1220 Port Townsend, WA 98368 y O Heather Dudley-Nollette,District 1 Heidi Eisenhour,District 2 Greg Brotherton,District 3 NING�S May 26,2026 Senator Patty Murray 2988 Jackson Federal Building 915 2nd Ave, Seattle,WA 98174 RE: Support for The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026 Dear Senator Cantwell and Representative Randall: On behalf of Jefferson County, Washington, we write to express the County's support for"The Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe Land Transfer Act of 2026,"legislation that would transfer former National Wildlife Refuge lands, comprising the Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges, to the Bureau of Indian Affairs to be held in trust for the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe. The Tribe is a highly collaborative and well-respected partner to Jefferson County,and we recognize the deep historical and cultural connections that the Tribe maintains with the lands and waters impacted by this legislation. These sites are not only central to the Tribe's heritage but are also integral to the ecological health and quality of life for our entire region. Protection Island, located within Jefferson County, is of particular importance to our constituents. The island provides critical nesting habitat for tufted puffins, rhinoceros auklets, glaucous-winged gulls and many other species of seabirds and raptors. The waters surrounding Protection Island also provide essential grounds for a variety of marine mammals, and the island's shorelines support a WA Department of Natural Resources designated marine aquatic reserve . Because Protection Island holds such extraordinary ecological significance, it is a source of significant regional pride for both the Tribe and the broader Jefferson County community. The Tribe maintains profound historical and cultural ties to the island and the surrounding waters. The land transfer legislation recognizes the Tribe's longstanding connections and represents an important step toward restoring ancestral connections and honoring the Tribe's sovereign relationship with Protection Island. Through the Tribe's 2024 self-governance agreement with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its expenditure of its own supplemental funds, the Tribe has demonstrated a strong financial commitment to improving Protection Island for the benefit of researchers and the greater Jefferson County area alike. Since assuming management of the island, the Tribe has already revitalized habitat research studies, rebuilt the access road, and initiated vegetative management to support island prairie habitat. Wage We are confident that upon transfer into trust status,the Tribe will continue to manage both former Refuges to a standard that will meet or exceed federal requirements. Jefferson County has familiarity with the Tribe's ability to manage lands through the Tamanowas Rock Sanctuary and trail network, which are open to the public and well monitored by the Tribe. Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and Jefferson County Land Trust partnered on the acquisition of Tamanowas Rock sanctuary lands from 2009—2012 and the area showcases the Tribe's ability to steward lands for cultural purposes, conservation and public access. The County further notes that Protection Island is not currently subject to local property taxation as federal public land and if the island is transferred into trust status on behalf of the Tribe, it will not result in any loss of property tax revenue to the County. However, the Tribe has agreed to assume through the legislation the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's existing obligations to Jefferson County for payment in lieu of taxes and refuge revenue sharing, at a prorated rate tied to the federal statutory payment rate, to ensure that the County will continue to receive these valuable payments following transfer. This is a key consideration in the Board of County Commissioner's decision to support the legislation, and the County is pleased that the land transfer is structured to protect Jefferson County from any potential negative fiscal impact. For these reasons,Jefferson County respectfully urges the delegation to support and advance"The Jamestown Land Transfer Act of 2026."We appreciate your consideration of this legislation and your ongoing commitment to constructive and locally-driven solutions that will benefit Tribal Nations and all residents within the State of Washington. Sincerely, Heather Dudley-Nollette, Dist. 1 Heidi Eisenhour, Dist.2 Greg Brotherton, Dist. 3-Chair 21Page it Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe , GS' ° �� �<�n ISLANp irEF Dungeness f .� h Protection Island ,lei i n 1 %Vildlife Nat o a �w�5._ , ; ■ -° t : 1Y24-25 Itiv,11014 . R f se use . . . , �� - , On Aug. 16, 2024,the Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and U.S. Fish &Wildlife airj . . . Service entered into a historic co-stewardship agreement for the Dungeness and Protection Island National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs).Over the past year; f ,.4 the Tribe has worked diligently to fulfill objectives outlined in that agreement ' and with the National Wildlife Refuge System, including:wildlife monitoring; habitat restoration; community engagement;and cultural resource protection. „1/4.14, .,4r4,44;4t- ',.,44-4,.7.0,44. it.4.144.,":7,444.,„L;i i -:04.-.4„,.„: MAJOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS x •Advanced habitat restoration across Dungeness NWR (including the Dawley Unit),and Protection Island NWR,improving more than six acres of , wetland,forest,prairie,and bluff habitats through invasive vegetation map- =� ,- �` �� ping,manual removal,and targeted pesticide application. `° �` �` ' • Sustained prairie restoration on Protection Island, maintaining existing treated areas and supporting long-term recovery of culturally important and wildlife dependent plant communities. " ,. • Conducted critical wildlife monitoring, including bird surveys, marine mammal observations,and deployed autonomous wildlife monitoring equipment. • Executed intensive European green crab trapping,capturing over 1,650 crabs and informing regional management strategies. AP . • Delivered public use,outreach,and education programs,strengthen # ing community awareness of cultural values,wildlife protection,and refuge ,:� stewardship. • Expanded the volunteer program, recruiting new volunteers, complet ,'; ing orientations, and supporting hundreds of hours of on-the-ground work i in restoration, public engagement, and refuge operations. t , °* • Completed key facilities and maintenance projects,including: • Deferred maintenance repairs on the Protection Island NWR access road t"'-- '" .:.,, ,. sk • Concrete installation for the Dungeness NWR pit toilets if • Repairs to the Protection Island NWR marina dock • Strengthened partnerships and co-management,deepening coordi- nation between Tribal refuge staff and conservation partners to support ...., - restoration,monitoring,and community outreach. . Dung ner : k. Prot coon I: lind National Wildlife Refuges FY24-25 HABITAT RESTORATION WILDLIFE SCIENCE AND INVASIVE SPECIES PUBLIC USE AND AND STEWARDSHIP RESEARCH MANAGEMENT: EDUCATION Across the Dungeness NWR Wildlife monitoring remained EUROPEAN GREEN CRAB The Tribe expanded the and Protection Island NWR, a central component of the The Tribe began monitor- refuge's public outreach the Jamestown S'Klallam Refuge Management Pro- ing and controlling inva- and education initiatives Tribe's Refuge Management gram's stewardship respon- sive European green crab to strengthen community Program focused on inva- sibilities.Monitoring efforts ("EGC")at Dungeness NWR connections and promote sive species control,habitat focused on documenting pop- in 2025,expanding upon stewardship of the refug- restoration and small-scale ulation trends,habitat use, USFWS efforts to protect the es'cultural and ecological enhancement of wetland, and species presence across bay's ecological unction and resources.These initiatives forest,grassland,and prairie the Dungeness and Protection native species.Tribal and re- play an key role in support- habitats. Island NWRs. gional EGC catch data high- ing refuge protection,foster- 2 0 acres of habitat enhanced 20 game cameras installed on lighted a need for expanded ing community engagement, �" or being actively restored Protection Island NWR efforts at Dungeness for the and uplifting the Tribe's •Conducted seasonal surveys of pri- 202 S field season. leadership lbs.of creosote in conservation. 3 0 0 0 0+ logs removed ority wildlife,including:Pacific Flyway Shorebird,Wintering Waterfowl,Brant, 1 643 3 EGC captured between 2 4 6 4 people reached at species of native seed used Surface-nesting seabird and Deer Count ) April-September , various hosted events 1 7+ in restoration projects surveys; Christmas Bird Count;and acres of refuge surveyed for Purple Martin Breeding Success Survey 1 4 8 6 ,o, increase from Education,presentation,and invasive vegetation on Protection Island 2024 trapping 2 9 200 outreach events •Conducted comprehensive invasive •Conducted and assisted with monthly •Implemented intensive EGC trapping �7[J O O n Visitors hosted at Coastal Observation and Seabird Sur- and monitoring program across three / � V Dungeness NWR vegetation mapping. veyTeam(Dungeness Spit)and pigeon keysites on Dungeness Spit Developed electronic a •Held multiple work parties to manually ( g p ) p g g p •D p payment en guillemot(Dungeness NWR)surveys •Conducted targeted high-effort trap- trance fee available at Dungeness NWR remove priority invasive vegetation. Deployed automated recording units ping sessions during peak activity,as (through recreation.gov) •Partnered with Washington Conser- (ARU)to record avian and nocturnal well as late fall and winter EGC trap- •Improved visitor services(enhanced vation Corps on invasive vegetation wildlife presence and improve detec- ping once per month(October-March) safety messaging)and increased staff and debris removal across all sites. tion rates across both refuges. by boat. presence during high-use periods. VOLUNTEER PROGRAM FACILITIES AND GENERAL REFUGE Volunteers continued to play MAINTENANCE OPERATIONS a vital role in refuge opera- The Refuge Management Throughout the year,Tribal tions,providing meaningful Program maintained essen- staff provided consistent support to stewardship, tial infrastructure and facili- on-the-ground presence, restoration,and public en- ties across Dungeness NWR coordinated field activities, gagement efforts. The Tribe and Protection Island NWR maintained facilities and integrated longtime Refuge to ensure safe operations, equipment,and ensured volunteers with newly re- support habitat and wildlife compliance with refuge cruited,and volunteers of the management,and provide regulations.These core Dungeness River Nature Cen- access (public and private). functions supported every ter,creating the well-designed Maintenance focused on major program area,from Dungeness Nature Alliance. routine upkeep,safety restoration and wildlife new volunteers added from improvements,and targeted monitoring to public use, 4 0 two recruitment events repairs that support both volunteer coordination,and 200 registered volunteers with Dungeness Nature Alliance staff and visitor needs. invasive species control— •Completed deferred maintenance ensuring safe,efficient,and 4,800 total volunteer hours repairs of the Protection Island NWR uninterrupted operation at contributed access road,improving access and safety. •Hosted eight volunteer training •Completed concrete installation for the both refuges. courses in interpretation,safety,cul- pit toilets at Dungeness NWR enhancing tural resources,European green crab sanitation infrastructure for visitors. trapping,kiosk hosting •Completed needed repairs to the •Hosted monthly volunteer socials and Protection Island NWR marina dock five"idea-sharing"events •Clean-up of Dawley Tract to remove •Provided on-site mentoring and skill debris,deteriorating well house and development for volunteers storage shed,chain link fencing.