Category Overview
Farmland Preservation protects valuable farmland and habitat for recreationally important animals, like salmon, birds, deer, and elk. These projects allow families to continue farming the land they have worked on for generations, and provide Washingtonians with healthy local food and a diverse economy. WWRP is the only source of farmland preservation funding in the state budget.
Project Highlights
The Jefferson Land Trust will use this grant to acquire a permanent conservation easement on Serendipity Farm, located in Quilcene, Jefferson County. Purchase of a conservation easement on this centrally located historic farm will help to preserve the prime soils and habitat on nearly 45 acres, provide funding for the farmers to grow their business and prevent future conversion and development. Conservation of this important local farm will result in over 70 contiguous acres of prime farmland conserved in the heart of Quilcene. Serendipity conservation values include approximately 30 acres of prime pastureland, 8 acres of vegetables, berries, fruit trees, and flowers, and more than 5 acres of restored Riparian Protection habitat enrolled in CREP. Salmon species utilize the restored stream and drainage ditches on the farm, including coho and cutthroat trout. The highly visible, scenic vistas define the rural character of this area and protection of this strategically located farm will enhance the viability of our agricultural community. Serendipity Farm is a successful operation that produces diverse products for local farmers markets, restaurants, retail establishments, and CSA customers.