Island Stewards | Thank you for showing up

||| FROM ISLAND STEWARDS |||

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going

Big thanks to everyone who showed up, spoke up, or cheered us on during the last County Planning meeting. You made it count. Transportation concerns were raised—and heard loud and clear.

Friends of San Juan came ready, offering solid ideas like expanded multi-use paths (or “edgeways” as some called them). Practical, people-first solutions rooted in balance between the community and the land.

To all who spoke for local transportation options that protect what makes this place special—thank you. This isn’t just about how we get around. It’s about how we live, connect, and care for the islands we call home.

Since then, the conversation’s only grown. Transportation has sparked bigger questions—about energy use, access, and our long game as a community. Opalco reminded us: it’s not just about cleaner power. It’s about using less. Turn off the lights. Stare at the stars. Walk, bike, share a ride—it’s good for the earth and the legs.

Local Programs Are Already Stepping Up

Our community doesn’t wait around. Local programs are getting creative—and practical—about how we move across and between islands. San Juan Safaris is running a passenger boat service with a focus on locals. Outer Island is offering an emergency water taxi option when you really need to get somewhere. And the new trial walk-on ferry is opening doors for simpler, car-free travel between Anacortes and the islands.

These aren’t just one-off efforts—they’re a reflection of a community stepping up to meet its own needs. They show what’s possible when we think locally, act collaboratively, and stay flexible. These kinds of solutions deserve support, and more of them are possible when we all pitch in.

Occurrence, Quality, and Use of Ground Water in Orcas, San Juan, Lopez, and Shaw Islands, San Juan County, Washington”
Published by the U.S. Geological Survey in 1966

On Water, Data, and Getting it Done

We also chatted with Elise from the USGS Washington Water Science Center. While funding for the big aquifer study was cut, the team had made solid progress. We’re still expecting data and projections by the end of 2025. That’s a win—because good decisions start with good information.

We’ll also be keeping a close eye on the health of our western red cedars—those towering, familiar trees that are beginning to show signs of stress across the islands. Their browning tips and thinning canopies aren’t just an aesthetic issue—they’re an early signal that our aquifers may be under pressure. These trees have deep roots, and when they start struggling, it often means the groundwater they depend on is changing. It’s one more reminder that what’s happening below the surface deserves our full attention.

And through it all, one message keeps coming back: we’re in this together. Neighbors, scientists, officials, and you. That’s how we move forward—with shared effort and shared responsibility.

A Weekend of Earth Day Inspiration

The Earth Day Eco Faire on Orcas was a breath of fresh air—and a spark for the soul. It opened with a Lummi / West Saanich blessing and built into a celebration of community, nature, and action. There were stories, music, meditation, art—and the kind of wisdom you only get from elders (and patient kids).

We stopped by Waterfront Park to hear Grandma Cayou and enjoyed soothing, grounding, calm and resonant tones.

It was a reminder of 7-generation thinking: looking back for wisdom, and forward with responsibility. It wasn’t just a celebration—it was a call to action.

Now’s the Moment: Let’s Shape What Comes Next

The San Juan County Comprehensive Plan is now in its final review phase. The choices being considered today will shape the islands we pass on tomorrow.

Island Stewards needs everyone to step up. Your voice matters. Your vision matters. Please take a few minutes to fill out the Comp Life survey if you have not already.

It’s a small step, but a meaningful one. Like a ferry ride—it may take a little time, but it gets us closer to where we want to be.

We’ll continue to share updates and opportunities. Until then, keep the conversation going, stay engaged, and keep showing up.

With much appreciation,

The Island Stewards Team

PS We made and handed out over 300 coloring pages!:

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