King County and The Trust for Public Land complete preservation of Squak Mountain for public use

 

King County and The Trust for Public Land are taking the last few steps in a two-year-long journey to permanently preserve more than 200 acres of Cascade foothills forestland.
Coveted for its ecological value, including sheltering the headwaters of a salmon-bearing stream, The Trust for Public Land purchased the 226 acres of land on Squak Mountain in 2014 for $5 million.
“Permanently preserving forestland in our Cascade foothills will pay dividends for each generation to come,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine. “By saving wildlife habitat and preserving recreational areas, we protect our region's environmental health and quality of life.”  Read More >>
“Protecting this stretch of land guarantees recreational opportunities and natural habitats will be preserved for years to come,” said Councilmember Reagan Dunn, whose Council District includes this land. “Acting quickly and partnering with the local community and open space organizations ensured this successful outcome and long-term protection from clear cutting and development. 
“The partnership that made the purchase of this property possible had one goal: ensuring that this cherished habitat and recreational area adjacent to prized county and state parks stays available to public use,” said County Council Chair Larry Phillips. “This is a great accomplishment for both the County and The Trust for Public Land.”
"Successes like Squak Mountain are at the heart of our mission to give everyone a great park close to home," said Paul Kundtz, Washington