Orcas Village Water System Conservation Easement

Orcas Island

A 2.8-acre parcel above Orcas Village with a diverse forest, pond, and moss-covered rocky knolls was protected in 2002 by a conservation easement, adding to preserved lands in the village.  The parcel, owned by the Orcas Village Water System (OVWS) is adjacent to a 10-acre property protected with an easement donated to the Preservation Trust by John and Annette Mazzarella in 2000.  The Trust purchased the conservation easement on the OVWS property with funds donated for this purpose.

“The Orcas Village Water System has a well on the land and owns the property as one of its water resources,” said Doug Tidwell, OVWS president and owner of the Orcas Hotel.  “The conservation easement adds a layer of protection to this water resource, maintains the economic value of the System’s investment, and augments conserved open space in Orcas Village.”

Earlier in 2002, the Preservation Trust worked with Save Orcas Bay, a citizens group, and the San Juan County Land Bank to protect the scenic shoreline and tidelands east of the Orcas Ferry landing.  Said Tim Seifert, executive director of the Preservation Trust. “We are pleased to play a role in preserving water resources, scenic open space and habitat in the vibrant Orcas Village community.”