— from Tanja Williamson —

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It was sunshine and smiles last Saturday, March 21st, during the Land Bank’s “March Turtleback March” on the Turtleback Mountain Preserve! Over 90 people, from ages five to sixty five, met at the park’s south trailhead and climbed aboard the Camp Orkila bus for a ride to the north trailhead, while Land Bank commissioner Matthew Wallrath belted out requests on his tuba.

Along with magnificent vistas, the five mile trek up and over the mountain included a couple surprises along the way, including a concertina player and chocolate treats. A bonus to the day was the gift from the Orcas Island Community Foundation to the Orcas Island Youth Conservation Corps: $5 for each person who made the hike.

The sweet smell of spring just got a little sweeter! Thanks to everyone in the community who came out to celebrate spring, stewardship, and our wonderful preserve lands.