Black River Conservation Easement

A model where climate action, habitat protection, and economic vitality grow side by side.

Forests have the power to do more than produce timber, they can store carbon, protect ecosystems, and support the economies of rural communities. That’s the idea behind the Black River Conservation Easement Project.

Forests for Climate & Community

In 2022, Port Blakely acquired 2,357-acres of forestland southwest of Olympia, Washington to demonstrate how working forests can serve both climate and community. In 2025, we received funding support through Washington’s Climate Commitment Act, enabling us to extend harvest rotations from 40 to 60 years and permanently protect the forestland from development. This shift allows trees to grow longer, store more carbon, support healthier habitats and produce high-quality timber for future generations.

Thanks to Washington’s leadership in climate investment, more projects like this are within reach. Future funding through the Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) will help expand efforts that align conservation, climate resilience, and economic opportunity.

Our Partners

We’re proud to work alongside policymakers, Tribal nations, community leaders, and conservation organizations, including Conservation Northwest and Capitol Land Trust, to bring our shared vision to life. If you’d like to learn more, please contact us at info-USF@portblakely.com.