Turtleback Mountain
rises above Crow Valley.
Open woodlands and sloping meadows characterize the mountain’s southern end.
 |
|
Orcas Island’s Turtleback Mountain is one of the most familiar and beloved landmarks in the San Juan Islands. Long treasured by islanders for its dark, undeveloped ridgeline, it now belongs to the public. The Land Bank, in conjunction with its partners The San Juan Preservation Trust and The Trust for Public Land, acquired this 1,576 acre natural area to protect its remarkable landscape and ensure public access forever.
The Land Bank contributed $10 million toward the total project cost of $18.5 million. The Trust for Public Land and the San Juan Preservation Trust were successful in raising the additional funds to save this outstanding property. The Land Bank owns and manages the conservation area, while the Preservation Trust holds a conservation easement that ensures that the mountain remains in
its natural state forever.
Turtleback Mountain is one of the largest undeveloped properties in the County. Sheltering a variety of special habitats and species, the preserve is ecologically significant as well as beautiful. Grasslands and Garry oak woodlands cover the mountain’s dry southern slopes, while conifer forest blankets the remainder. Pocket wetlands scattered about the property provide crucial habitat for wildlife and moisture-loving plants. Seasonal drainage from the mountain nourishes the fertile wetlands of Crow Valley and the rich marine habitats of West Sound. Towering over Crow Valley and West Sound, Turtleback Mountain is visible from many vantage points throughout the county and beyond.
Turtleback is also a recreational resource. Its high meadows and rocky ledges provide unparalleled views of the San Juan and Canadian Gulf Islands. There are ample opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and nature observation. The Preserve is open to foot-traffic only. In addition, no fires, camping, or hunting are allowed; dogs must be leashed; take nothing and leave no trace. With many neighbors living near the trailheads, everyone is asked to respect private property boundaries.
|
|
|
Map & Directions
Turtleback Mountain
Preserve is open to the
public for pedestrian access. You can download a map and driving directions here, or contact the Land Bank office at 360-378-4402 to request
a copy.
Management Plan
We invite the public to read the Turtleback Mountain Preserve Stewardship & Management Plan. This final plan was approved in 2008
by the Land Bank Commission and the County Council, concluding an extensive process of gathering public input through written comments, meetings,
and public hearings.
The Management Plan will guide the care of Turtleback for years to come.
It designates three zones
on the mountain: one for pedestrians, one for multiple use, and one dedicated to Turtleback’s other, silent
users—its resident plants and animals. It makes a pledge to work with all citizens with respect, seeking ways that pedestrians, equestrians,
and mountain bikers can all enjoy Turtleback, remaining mindful of the Land Bank’s “low-intensity” requirement
for recreation.
Wise stewardship of the land’s ecological treasures is also
a top priority.
Press Releases
October 15, 2008
October 15, 2008
October 1, 2008
March 21, 2008
July 25, 2007
January 5, 2007
November 15, 2006
November 17, 2007 Turtleback A Year Later (external link)
|
