Chelan Douglas Land Trust says Lookout Natural Area acquisition near closing with $4.3M campaign

Hannah, executive director of the Chelan Douglas Land Trust, updated the council on the Lookout Natural Area acquisition, a collaborative project with the City of Wenatchee to create the first city-owned park north of the Wenatchee River and provide public access, habitat connectivity and trail opportunities.

She described the property's ecological value — connections to mule deer winter range and Sui'Kane wildlife areas — and said the landowners invited Colville tribal members to help select a name reflective of Indigenous history; tribal members recommended the name "Lookout Natural Area." The Land Trust plans robust public engagement to develop a trails and access plan and intends to follow the master agreement signed with the city in 2021 for long-term collaborative management.

On funding, Hannah said the campaign total is $4.3 million. The city has an $800,000 state grant that will cover half of the acquisition cost; the Land Trust will transfer a matching $800,000 into escrow before the closing (expected in February) and has raised about $1.3 million in private funds to date. The Land Trust also expects an additional $25,000 Icicle Fund supplemental grant to help cover closing costs and said stewardship funds have been secured as part of the private fundraising to support long-term operations and maintenance.

Councilmembers thanked the Land Trust and emphasized the partnership. There was no action to vote on during the presentation; Hannah said she looks forward to continuing work with the city as the project moves toward closing.