Whatcom Land Trust

Land stewardship and restoration that increase landscape connectivity, improve ecosystem biodiversity and restore natural systems to support the recovery of key fish and wildlife species. In fiscal year 2023-24, monitored, managed, and reported on 6,625 acres of Whatcom Land Trust owned property across Whatcom County; worked with over 100 Conservation Easement landowners across 10,033 acres to uphold easements, monitor, and report for annual records; hosted over 25 stewardship volunteer events on WLT properties to restore habitat through invasive plant removal, native plant installation, and other management needs; completed restoration on new California Creek properties - Blaine Road, Bridge Way, and Fleet Road; completed development of the Harrison Reserve Outdoor Educational Project aiming to equitably get students in an outdoor learning environment while improving the wetland habitat.

Community engagement in conservation action - We involve community members in Whatcom Land Trust's mission and work through events, volunteer programs, storytelling, digital engagement, and other outreach activities. We highlight the positive ecological impacts of conservation and stewardship projects with a focus on climate resilience and inspiring meaningful connections between people and land. Engagement tools establish clear pathways for community members to grow involvement with the organization through digital following, program (events) attendance, volunteering, and donating. In fiscal year 2023-24, Whatcom Land Trust organized the following community engagement activities: Digital and Print Engagement: -Monthly E-Newsletters to 3,500 subscribers including updates on conservation milestones and ongoing restoration work. -Management of social media channels (1,500 Instagram followers, 2,800 Facebook followers) -Production of consistent printed communication with donors and volunteers supporting giving campaigns -Targeted outreach and advertising campaigns supporting Stewardship and Conservation events. In-Person Events: -Weekly stewardship work parties for volunteers