Twenty-Three Years of Conservation: An Update on Our Growing Impact

In 2022, Okanogan Land Trust celebrated its 20th anniversary with a commemorative report highlighting two decades of conservation achievements. At that moment, OLT had protected 14,164 acres, launched new community programs, strengthened conservation partnerships, and earned national accreditation from the Land Trust Alliance. The report also outlined an ambitious goal: to reach 20,000 acres conserved by 2027. Three years later, that milestone is no longer on the horizon—it’s coming sharply into view.

Acreage Growth: From 14,164 to 18,455 Acres

When the 20th-anniversary report was published, OLT had secured 14,164 acres under permanent protection. Since then, additional easements and ongoing projects have brought us to 18,455 acres conserved today—an increase of more than 4,200 acres in just two years.

That growth puts us within two thousand acres of reaching our 20,000-acre goal well before 2027.

Stewardship Across 35 Conserved Properties

Today, OLT is advancing stewardship across 35 conserved properties while actively advancing several new projects that will strengthen wildlife corridors, protect working lands, and ensure the long-term resilience of the Okanogan landscape.

Partnerships and Community Programs Continue to Grow

The 20th-anniversary report celebrated the expansion of community-centered initiatives—from the OkaKnowledge series to Spring Forward events—and highlighted collaborative conservation work with partners like the Methow Beaver Project, The Nature Conservancy, the Okanogan Highlands Alliance, and CCT Fish & Wildlife.

Since then, these programs and partnerships have continued to deepen. Today, OLT is advancing new restoration efforts, climate-informed planning tools, and cross-organizational collaborations that strengthen both ecological function and community resilience.

Looking Ahead

The accomplishments of the past two years show what can be achieved when landowners, partners, volunteers, and supporters work together for a shared purpose. As we approach the 20,000-acre mark, we remain focused on long-term stewardship and on protecting lands that sustain wildlife, local livelihoods, and the character of the region.

The work of conservation continues—and every acre conserved reflects a community that cares deeply about this place.

Thank you for being part of this journey.