Deschutes Land Trust protects wetlands

The Deschutes Land Trust announced Monday that it has protected an additional six acres of Camp Polk Meadow near Sisters. The Land Trust purchased the property - which includes wetlands and frontage on Whychus Creek-from Elmer and Nancy Pond.

"The effort to protect this property began back in 2004 with Land Trust volunteer and Camp Polk Meadow historian Martin Winch," said Brad Chalfant, the Land Trust's executive director. "At the time, Mr. Pond wasn't ready to sell, but we kept in touch and ultimately reached a purchase agreement last year. This project demonstrates once again that the continuing support of the community is critical as we pursue these long-term projects. We're grateful for that support and also grateful and honored that the Ponds chose to work with the Land Trust to make their property part of Camp Polk Meadow Preserve."

Elmer Pond's mother once owned much of Camp Polk Meadow. Elmer spent several high school summers there before buying his own piece of the meadow in 1968. He recalls a family of beavers building a lodge in the pond behind his house, and how steelhead once tried to spawn in the small ditch that leads from his property through the meadow. "I've enjoyed watching the Land Trust work to make the meadow green again, and I'm excited about the possibility of the beavers returning," said Pond. "Having my property become part of Camp Polk Meadow Preserve seemed like the natural thing to do."

The Deschutes Land Trust conserves land for wildlife, scenic views, and local communities. As Central Oregon's only nationally accredited and locally based land trust, the Deschutes Land Trust has protected more than 8,200 acres in since 1995. For more information on the Deschutes Land Trust, call 541-330-0017 or visit http://www.deschuteslandtrust.org.