Admiralty Inlet Heritage Forest
- Status: Protection Pending
- Location: Central Whidbey Island, in Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve
- Acreage: 59 acres
Public Benefits
Fish and wildlife habitat, scenic vistas, recreational trails, rare native plant population, rare bird nesting areas and an old-growth forest
Description
The Whidbey Camano Land Trust is actively working to protect 59 acres along Admiralty Inlet that includes an endangered plant population, an imperiled old-growth forest community, and about 2,200 feet of high bluff waterfront. Numerous fish and wildlife species depend on the property’s forest and bluff. Birds nesting on this property include Bald Eagle, Merlin, Kinglet, Band-Tailed Pigeon, and Pigeon Guillemot. Golden Paintbrush also grows here. The property has a trail system used by the private landowner, Seattle Pacific University (SPU), for science and education.
PROJECT STORY
This unique property lies within the boundaries of Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve and is much loved by many people and is important for wildlife. The old-growth forest has magically-shaped Douglas fir and Western Hemlock. Birds nest, rest, and forage for food there. A population of Golden Paintbrush, an endangered, delicate, and beautiful prairie plant also naturally occurs on the property. In short, this property offers outstanding natural areas that benefit the public.
This property is very important for other reasons as well. The extraordinary old-growth forest is near other protected properties (Fort Casey State Park, Crockett Lake, and Naas Preserve). Larger sections of undeveloped land are better for all species (plant and animal). Many wildlife species found there are rare; they need homes that are safe if they are to survive and thrive. But there’s also a significant potential risk since this exceptional property has beautiful views and is very attractive for private waterfront homesites.
