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Brief
History of Chehalis River Basin Land Trust
The Chehalis River Basin Land Trust (CRBLT) was born on May 31, 1994, when a small group of residents met to discuss their concerns about their basin’s important natural areas. In April, 1995, CRBLT received its 501(c)(3) tax exempt status as a non-profit organization. CRBLT is a sponsor organization of the Land Trust Alliance, a national organization of land trusts with over 1200 member land trusts.
In 1996 the land trust completed its first Conservation Easement. This easement, located on the banks of the Chehalis River near Centralia, supports two bald eagle nests within the largest stand of mature black cottonwoods remaining along the river. Two more easements were added in 1998 and another in 1999. Late in 1999 a Seattle woman donated her small parcel on the bank of the Chehalis to the land trust. CRBLT decided to restore this property to native trees and shrubs as an educational project. Elma Middle School students planted 250 plants, of 14 native species, in February, 2000. The site is available for environmental studies.
In January, 2002, CRBLT opened an office in Centralia, sharing space with the Chehalis River Council. Both organizations have common aspirations for good health of the natural environment in the Chehalis River Basin. Also in 2002, the land trust board and interested members completed its first comprehensive Strategic Plan, from which are carved each year’s work plans.
Between 2002 and 2006, CRBLT worked with the City of Centralia and several other partners on an ambitious, mile-long riparian restoration project along the Chehalis River on land owned by the city. More than 700 local students, fourth grad through college, worked with dozens of community volunteers to plant over 7200 trees and shrubs native to the Chehalis River valley.
Also in partnership with the City of Centralia, CRBLT developed an interpretive nature trail, 1.5 miles in length, along and through the above riparian corridor. Signs and a brochure highlights the many natural features of this area, including bald eagle nests, Chinook salmon redds, a cliff swallow colony and the native forest plants. The formal dedication of the Chehalis River Discovery Trail occurred on September 23, 2006. CRBLT continues to collaborate with the City of Centralia on a proposed extension of the Discovery Trail and restoration of additional riparian areas along the Chehalis River
During 2006, CRBLT received donations of 26 acres in 2 parcels and another Conservation Easement on 14 acres. CRBLT acts as steward to these easements and properties to maintain or improve the conservation value of the lands.
In December, 2006, CRBLT joined with 22 other Washington land trusts to form WALTA (Washington State Land Trust Association). It’s goal is to connect and enhance the conservation efforts of Washington Land Trusts.
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