Island County will use this grant to buy a permanent agricultural conservation easement on 65 acres of farmland within Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve on Whidbey Island. The property has been actively farmed for well over a century. Due to prime soils, long growing season, and sufficient water supply, the property’s economic productivity is excellent for a wide variety of crops, including produce, seed crops, alfalfa, wheat, barley, and corn. The property lies on the south boundary of Coupeville and provides historic agricultural context for both the town and Ebey’s Reserve. It is surrounded by hundreds of acres of protected land. While agriculture receives a high level of support on Whidbey, the threat of conversion to residential development is significant. The property is highly sought after because of its location adjacent to Coupeville with sweeping views of Admiralty Inlet, the Olympic Mountains, and protected Ebey’s Reserve farmlands. Once protected from development, the property will remain in agriculture and help ensure the future viability of farmland within Ebey’s Reserve. Island County and the Whidbey Camano Land Trust will co-hold the easement. Island County will contribute $672,500 from local and federal grants.