404 Alaska St. Rainier
The Thurston County Habitat Conservation Plan is a long-range planning tool to protect federally listed prairie species while enabling continued development around the county. It will impact thousands of acres in Thurston County. At this series of community events, attendees will learn how farms and other rural land can both provide habitat value and remain working farms and/or rural residential open space. While the HCP raises concerns, it has the potential to bring millions of dollars into rural land owners in Thurston County to protect both farmland and species habitat at the same time.
It is estimated that the HCP will protect approximately 3,500 acres of land which the County will use to offset impacts to gopher habitat projected through development over the coming decades. Landowner participation in providing acres for protection is entirely voluntary. Land protection can occur either as an outright property sale for a preserve or land can be retained by current owners who are paid to place a conservation easement on the property. Both avenues will be discussed.
WashingtonState University and Thurston County will give a presentation, and there will be a chance to talk to local agencies about your property and to find out what kind of conservation options are available for you. Contact Sierra Smith for more information at sierra.smith1@wsu.edu or leave him a voicemail at (360) 867-2165.
Community meetings will be held on the following days and times:
- Tuesday October 18th, Tenino. Violet Prairie Grange, 17028 Violet Prairie Rd SE, Tenino 6:00-8:00 pm
- Wednesday November 9th, Rainer. Sportsman’s Club, 404 Alaska St., Rainier 6:00-8:00 pm
Food and drink provided. Bring your questions.
