Land Bank seeks multi-year agricultural leases at Fraser Homestead and Beaverton Marsh preserves

San Juan County Land Bank staff briefed the council on proposed multiyear agricultural leases for two preserves on San Juan Island — Fraser Homestead and Beaverton Marsh — and explained why lease income is expected to fall short of the Land Bank’s stewardship costs.

Land Bank director presented maps showing the proposed agricultural lease areas and explained a distinction between long-term agricultural-lease areas and short-term licensed-use areas near wetlands and restoration zones. The short-term areas provide flexibility for restoration or future park-service transactions, staff said.

Staff said they conducted a market survey and sought proposals. Lessees were evaluated on management plans and stewardship approaches rather than only on rent; the Land Bank will retain responsibility for trail maintenance and infrastructure such as perimeter fencing and watering systems. "The net result is that we will probably spend more maintaining these preserves than we receive in lease revenue," the director said, noting island agricultural lease rates are generally low.

For Beaverton Marsh, staff said proposals include constructing a perimeter trail along Roach Harbor Road and connecting existing trail systems; for Fraser Homestead a portion of the southern lots may be considered for resale if the National Park Service makes a purchase for historic preservation reasons.

Council members voiced support for expanding appropriate agricultural use while protecting restoration areas and asked staff to continue public outreach and coordinate with tenant groups such as the Grange.

Ending: Staff will return with lease documents and, where relevant, public-hearing materials for resale or transfer discussions; the Land Bank emphasized stewardship obligations and the likelihood that lease revenue will not fully cover management costs.