Building off a previously protected and adjacent forested wetland property, 51 acres are now permanently protected in the upper watershed of Glendale Creek.
The new Glendale Wetland Preserve is located off Cultus Bay Road on South Whidbey.
The mosaic of open water, forested and emergent wetlands, upland meadow and forest protects water quality in Glendale Creek, one of only three salmon-bearing streams in Island County.
The new preserve provides incredible wildlife habitat used by an abundance of species found there, including amphibians and water-dependent birds.
Hawks, falcons and owls cruise the preserve for food while songbirds sing and pileated woodpeckers hunt insects in red alder snags.
Sopheay Hun and her family owned the property that was recently protected for 15 years.
She loved connecting with nature in such a peaceful setting.
“It was a sanctuary for our family to visit and enjoy its open space and wildlife, especially birds,” she said.
“It invokes my childhood memories of the simple joy and carefree nature of playing outside in the open.”
This precious place was protected with funds from a generous private donor and an Island County Conservation Futures Fund grant.
“I am happy to see it protected for future generations to enjoy its tranquility,” Sopheay said.
