Mount Woolard Marsh | Photo: Steve Alboucq

In October, we welcomed the donation of 47 acres of mixed forest and wetland on Orcas Island’s Mount Woolard. The wonderfully generous donors say they envision the property as a forever-wild preserve with limited access for the enjoyment and study of nature. They also hope it might catalyze a neighborhood conservation effort among surrounding landowners.

Indeed, neighbors of the new Mount Woolard Marsh Preserve have already mobilized by raising stewardship funds and volunteering to serve as caretakers of this beloved local place.