Givens Conservation Easement

Lopez Island

Year Protected: 1999

Land Protected: 7.5 acres

Shoreline Protected: 260 feet

Public Benefits: Forest, shoreline

Charles and Nancy Givens donated a 7.5 acre conservation easement on Lopez Road in 1999.  The forested land, which includes 260 feet of waterfront, lies just across the road from a conservation easement donated by Virginia McDermott.    The Givens property has one house in the woods, set back from the shore, and will remain a natural woodland area with walking paths only.

“Nancy and I had discussed donating an easement for several years,” said Charles.  “We felt that zoning laws are subject to change but the easement isn’t, so this is a way to preserve our property in the way we want to.”

What Givens loves best about his property is “the view out my west window over San Juan Channel.  We see ferries gliding by, and, since we’re keeping it natural, we have wildlife coming up close.  Our neighbors are lots of birds, chipmunks, and deer.”

The Givens are dedicated to their land…that much is clear.  However, they are also dedicated volunteers at the Trust as well.  Charles is currently serving as a member of our Board of Trustees, and he and Nancy are regular fixtures at our mailing parties and outreach events.