Jacqueline Hughes had been a long-time supporter of The Humane Society of the United States when she contacted the Humane Society Wildlife Land Trust about protecting the small property she and her husband had in Poulsbo, Washington. While the property is only five acres, the encroaching development and human activities that accompany it are genuine threats to the surrounding area and native wildlife.

In December 2000, the Wildlife Land Trust entered into a conservation easement with Hughes to forever protect the property and its wildlife from development, destructive logging practices, and recreational and commercial hunting and trapping.

A portion of the Hughes Wildlife Land Trust in Poulsbo is mowed and has a small artificial pond. At the back of the property, it is forested, with mixed western hemlock, Douglas fir and hardwood forest with ferns and other lush undergrowth. It makes an ideal home for small mammals and reptiles as well as the many birds who live here year round or pass through on their migrations.

Although this sanctuary remains privately owned, the WLT 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 WLT needs a reserve of funds for the substantial legal fees needed if enforcement of violations involves court action.

WLT 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 WLT protects, please donate here.

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