The transfer of ownership of the Port Gamble shoreline block from Pope Resources to Kitsap County ensures 535 acres of forestland and 1.5 miles of shoreline on the bay will remain undeveloped. This site is a watershed that is critical to the health of the bay, and is a valuable public-recreation resource.

Next: Kitsap County will appoint a stewardship group to help care for this treasure. Acquisition of other blocks of Pope Resources land is expected to occur between now and fall.

That this occurred at all is a testament to the patience and partnership of the Kitsap Forest & Bay Coalition’s principals, Kitsap County, Pope Resources, Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe, and the Suquamish Tribe; the fundraising leader, Forterra; the coalition lead, Great Peninsula Conservancy; and the coalition’s 34 community partners — among them, government agencies, non-profits, and local legislators.

Congratulations to all.