About Islands trust
Islands Trust: Preserving and Protecting the Salish Sea
Islands Trust is a unique organization that has been working tirelessly to preserve and protect over 450 islands and surrounding waters in the Salish Sea. The trust was established in 1974, with a mandate to protect the natural environment of these islands while also ensuring that they remain accessible to residents and visitors alike.
The Salish Sea is a biologically rich ecosystem that spans from Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, down through Puget Sound in Washington State, USA. It is home to an incredible array of marine life, including orcas, salmon, herring, seals, sea lions and many other species. The area also boasts stunning landscapes with rugged coastlines dotted with forests of Douglas fir trees.
Islands Trust recognizes the importance of this unique ecosystem and works hard to ensure its preservation for future generations. The trust's mandate includes land-use planning for all islands within its jurisdiction as well as protecting sensitive ecosystems such as wetlands and shorelines.
One of Islands Trust's key initiatives is their commitment to sustainable development. They work closely with island communities to develop plans that balance economic growth with environmental protection. This approach ensures that development on these islands is done responsibly so as not to harm the natural environment.
Another important aspect of Islands Trust's work is public engagement. They recognize that local residents are often best placed to understand the needs of their communities when it comes to land use planning decisions. As such they encourage active participation from islanders through public meetings and consultations.
Islands Trust also provides valuable resources for those interested in learning more about this unique region. Their website offers information on everything from local wildlife species identification guides through maps showing hiking trails on various islands within their jurisdiction.
In conclusion, Islands Trust plays an essential role in preserving one of North America's most beautiful regions - the Salish Sea - by balancing economic growth with environmental protection while engaging local communities in the decision-making process. Their commitment to sustainable development and public engagement is a model for other organizations working to protect our planet's natural resources.