Congressman Rick Larsen's Online Office

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) praised President Obama’s decision to prioritize land conservation in Northwest Washington by including $1 million for Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve in his Fiscal Year 2011 budget. This funding will be used to purchase easements in order to protect and preserve over 300 acres of farmland.

“Ebey’s Landing is a vital resource for the community. This funding will help protect one of Washington state’s natural and historic treasures,” said Rep. Larsen. “I applaud President Obama for recognizing the importance of purchasing easements that will keep good farmland in production and preserve recreational access for the public.”

Ebey’s Landing was created by Congress in 1978 to protect the “cultural landscape” of Penn Cove on Whidbey Island.  Most of Ebey’s Landing is owned by private citizens, but public access is guaranteed by easements owned by the National Parks Service and conservation organizations. The land is widely used for farming, harvesting forests and recreation. Historic buildings on Ebey’s Landing continue to be used as homes and businesses.

"The most important tool we have to protect the Reserve's agricultural heritage is through acquisition of scenic easements on a willing seller basis,” said Mark Preiss, Reserve Manager, Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. “This funding will help to sustain the deep rooted tradition of family farming in Ebey's Reserve. Our thanks to Congressman Larsen for his leadership in working to secure this funding for Ebey's Landing."

This is the second year that the Obama Administration has set aside funding for land conservation in Northwest Washington.  Last year, the President’s budget included $6 million to purchase the Mitchell Hill property adjacent to San Juan Island National Historical Park. Inclusion in the President’s budget is an important step in securing this funding for Ebey’s Landing. Next, Congress must provide funding for the land as part of their annual appropriations bill for Interior and Environment.

“The Obama Administration clearly understands the value of National Parks in Northwest Washington.  Ebey’s Landing and San Juan Island National Historical Park preserve our unique cultural heritage and supports good jobs in the local tourism economy,” said Rep. Larsen.
###