Whatcom County Council votes to acquire forest land on Stewart Mountain

Whatcom County Council recently approved a 4-3 vote to acquire over 1,600 acres on Stewart Mountain to enhance conservation efforts. The funding, totaling approximately $5. 5 million, is provided through the state Department of Ecology's Streamflow Restoration Grant program. This acquisition is part of the broader initiative to develop the Stewart Mountain Community Forest, which aims to integrate about 6,000 acres of forestland into local governance for public benefit. The establishment of the forest requires a stewardship plan following discussions on August 6.

Public Affairs Manager Jed Holmes recommended forming a dedicated non-profit organization to manage the forest and mitigate county liability. Chris Elder, a Senior Watershed Management Planner, emphasized the need for forest management to improve streamflows in the region. This project represents Phase 2 of the initiative, following the sale of 550 acres to Whatcom Land Trust in 2021. Currently, there are no plans to expand the SMCF further, according to Elder.