Land Trust celebrates 10 busy years

“This is a special day!” said Deschutes Basin Land Trust (DBLT) Executive Director Brad Chalfant as he kicked off the organization’s 10th anniversary celebration.

Supporters gathered at Sisters Indian Ford Meadow Preserve last Sunday to begin a weeklong celebration of the successes of the nonprofit organization.

The Land Trust seeks to protect lands in the Deschutes Basin for current and future generations.

The 63-acre Indian Ford Meadow Preserve was the organization’s first acquisition. Today DBLT has seven preserves totaling more than 5,500 acres.

“It’s about so much more than the land — it’s about the people,” said Chalfant as he addressed the crowd.

Chalfant, who founded the organization, said more than 10 years ago there was much community discussion about the meadow, which is just north of Sisters off Camp Polk and Indian Ford Roads. The meadow is bisected by Squaw Creek and serves as habitat for deer, raptors and song birds. The owner, who felt strongly about preserving the land, donated it, which helped start the organization.

“It gave us great focus,” said Chalfant.

The Land Trust and volunteers recently completed construction of an interpretive trail and overlook in Indian Ford Meadow Preserve. Next, an observation bench will be installed so visitors can gaze across the meadow, enjoying views from Black Butte south along the Cascade range.

Arnold and Norma Funai, who live bordering the meadow, were some of the Land Trust’s first members 10 years ago. They have been active members, with Norma leading many bird walks through the Trust’s lands. She said even on a bird walk, she adds information about the local flowers and regional history to give a complete look at the land.

“To me, it’s just been a wonderful thing to do in retirement,” said Norma Funai.

Standing on the Trust’s inaugural preserve, Chalfant pointed out the beauty of the first acreage the Trust preserved. He thanked the board members and supporters who had worked in the past 10 years to acquire land and development rights from willing donors and sellers.

“I didn’t know what to expect 10 years ago,” said Chalfant.

The week of anniversary events includes plant walks, a photography workshop, road bike tour and activities for kids. The celebration ends this Saturday with a barbeque in Bend’s Shevlin Park when the Trust will preview its next projects.

For specifics on anniversary activities, visit http://www.deschuteslandtrust.org.