A new model of forest ownership for the West
In 2011, the Mt. Adams Community Forest was established as Washington’s first non-profit owned, working community forest
Community members and friends of Mt. Adams Resource Stewards rallied behind an opportunity to bring home ownership of the Glenwood Valley’s Mill Pond, raising funds that provided for the outright purchase of the 100 acre property. The 2011 achievement was significant in a number of ways and MARS’ management of the Mill Pond’s productive forests, restoration opportunities, water and recreation resources is a work in progress (see below). In July of 2014, the forest expanded with the completion of a second acquisition: the 300 acre Pine Flats Forest located along a county highway between Trout Lake and Glenwood. Since then, MARS has completed four additional land purchases (as of September 2023), expanding the community forest ownership to over 1,800 acres. MARS continues to work with partners on efforts to expand the Mt. Adams Community Forest through additional purchases, while growing a locally meaningful model of conservation and stewardship for the Mt. Adams region. The Mt. Adams Community Forest strives to permanently protect high community and conservation value forests critical to the quality of life of our region. Management goals for community forest properties are centered around principles of land stewardship, community benefit, and healthy, functioning ecosystems. Such goals recognize the value of sustainably managed forest resources as a renewable source of wood products and jobs, balanced with the provision of habitat for flora and fauna, and public access for recreation. Tradition is an important element of the Mt. Adams Community Forest vision, and activities such as fishing, hunting, and firewood gathering are provided for when possible. Management of the forest is the responsibility of MARS staff under the direction of its Board of Directors. Community input is particularly important to the Board, and each year community members provide guidance on management priorities through public listening sessions and direct recommendations from our community advisory committee.
Mt. Adams Community Forest Properties
Learn more about specific community forest properties, including history, ecology, and access information below. Mill Pond Tract