Land Trust 15th Anniversary But Eyes Are on the Future

It might seem like an unusual pub night conversation, but over a series of pints, right here, the Deschutes Land Trust, was born.

A moment of celebration, marking fifteen years of work for the Deschutes Land Trust. Over 7700 acres of wildland preserved all starting here, with a conversation around a table at the Deschutes Brew Pub.

"We saw lands that were not being protected that should have been and lands that were being protected that maybe didn't really warrant it," said Executive Director Brad Chalfant.

Future conservation plans are ambitious, the Land Trust is working to buy the 33,000 acre Skyline forest, and another 35,000 acre tree farm near Gilchrist. But the immediate focus is right outside Sisters.

"A two mile stretch of Whychus Creek that will provided incredible habitat for returning steelhead," said Chalfant.

With $2.5 of the $2.9 million dollars secured to buy the property, the clock is ticking to raise the last $400000.

"We have until the end of the year, December 31st, to raise the funds to make this acquisition a reality," said Chalfant.

With such a tight timeline, the anniversary celebration is more about asking for support than celebrating the moment.

While the plaque marks the spot where the Land Trust was born, the Land Trust is hoping it's their effort, preserving thousands of acres of land, that makes their mark on the community. Watch the video now.