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 Okanogan Land Trust will use this grant to buy a voluntary land preservation agreement, also called a conservation easement, to conserve forever the 1,051-acre Sunny Okanogan Angus Ranch in the Tunk Valley, about 15 miles northeast of Riverside. The land contains significant prime farmland soils and is designated as both farmland of statewide and unique importance. The current farmer is the second generation to own the property, and the agreement would enable the family to solidify its ranching operation and pass it on to future generations, free from development pressures. The ranch provides habitat for sharp-tail grouse, elk, moose, bear, deer, and a wide variety of birds. It also is important for mule deer and Canada Lynx movement. The Okanogan Land Trust will contribute $250,061 in a federal grant and donated land or property interest.