Look to the Land Campaign Impact

Jefferson Land Trust’s Look to the Land campaign for a resilient future ignited generosity, vision, and commitment — bringing together hundreds of people who share a deep love for Jefferson County’s natural lands and communities. Its success prepares the Land Trust to face the future with strength, hope, and even greater resilience.

“Whether you donated, volunteered, or simply believe in the importance of protecting the lands that sustain us, this success belongs to all of us. Thank you.”

— Campaign co-chairs Phil Vogelzang and Ellen Ferguson

Together, We’re Celebrating Campaign Success!

In March 2025, Jefferson Land Trust celebrated the successful completion of the three-year Look to the Land campaign, a milestone that reflects the power of community. With broad support, the campaign raised $8.58 million — 104% of its goal! — to strengthen conservation and resilience across Jefferson County.

This success made it possible to purchase Chimacum Ridge Community Forest, the largest project in our 36-year history. Now open to the public, this 918-acre forest is being managed as a true community resource — improving wildlife habitat and ecological health; contributing to our local wood economy; and supporting cultural, educational, and recreational use. It will safeguard air and water quality and provide miles of forest trails for everyone to enjoy.

The campaign also launched two critical funds that will shape the Land Trust’s future. The Flexible Opportunity Fund gives us the ability to act quickly when farmland, forests, or wildlife habitat come on the market, ensuring opportunities aren’t lost to development. It also supports creative approaches to conservation, such as farmland affordability projects and conservation burial. With continued community investment, this fund will keep Jefferson Land Trust ready for the next challenge.

The Forever Fund Operating Endowment provides long-term stability. Growing this fund toward a 10-year, $20 million goal will ensure that once land is protected, we always have the resources to care for it in perpetuity.

Thanks to the leadership of our Look to the Land campaign steering committee and the commitment and generosity of our campaign supporters, we are positioned to have an even greater impact on the health and resilience of our region’s landscapes.

The momentum created by this campaign is only the beginning.

Together, we can continue to protect the lands that nourish us — today, tomorrow, and forever. We invite you to be part of the next chapter.

• Learn about Volunteer Opportunities with the Land Trust
• Join our Evergreen Society to become a sustaining monthly donor
• Attend an Upcoming Event