In 2002 Jacqueline Hughes, a long-time supporter of The Humane Society of the United States, had already entered into a conservation easement with the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust for her property in Poulsbo, Washington. Recognizing the value of that agreement, she sought another for her property in Issaquah. While the property is very small – only two acres – open space for wildlife is at a premium in suburban areas like this one near Seattle.

Under the protection of the Wildlife Land Trust, the Hughes Wildlife Sanctuary of Issaquah will forever protect the land and its wildlife from development, destructive logging practices, and recreational and commercial hunting and trapping.

The western portion of the sanctuary is a deep ravine with dense vegetation and a perennial stream, a vital feature for native wildlife, flowing through it to Lake Sammamish. Large trees include Douglas fir and western redcedar. Lush undergrowth covers the ground, making this a vibrant environment for small mammals and songbirds.

Although this sanctuary remains privately owned, the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust has an obligation to perform periodic inspections to ensure that the wildlife habitat remains in good condition and that the terms of the conservation easements are being met.  These inspections, and the handling of any destruction or violations, cost heavily in professional staff time, consultants, and travel expenses. In addition HSWLT needs a reserve of funds for the substantial legal fees needed if enforcement of violations involves court action.

HSWLT has promised to protect this property as sanctuary forever -- and that promise will be kept.  If you can help with the cost of stewardship for this and the other properties HSWLT protects, please donate here.

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