MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — A few local forests are on track to be permanently protected from development.
The state is awarding several grants to projects across the state that conserve working farms and forests, helping ensure those areas remain available for growing timber and crops.
One grant will allow the Skagit Land Trust to buy a conservation easement to ensure 43 acres of low elevation forest near Mount Vernon remains a working forest forever.
Whatcom County will use their funds to conserve a forest near Deming that is often used for horseback riding, hiking and camping.
Another grant will go towards the protection of Squalicum Forest.