Bainbridge Island Land Trust Secures Permanent Protection for Winslow Heron Rookery with Strong Community Support
Bainbridge Island, WA — April 9, 2025 — The Bainbridge Island Land Trust announced today that is closing on the purchase of the Winslow Heron Rookery, a vital nesting site for Great Blue Herons along the shores of Eagle Harbor. This achievement was made possible through the generosity and dedication of community members who rallied to safeguard this critical habitat.
The Winslow Rookery, home to approximately 25 heron nests constructed high in the big leaf maple trees, is one of the few known nesting sites for Great Blue Herons on Bainbridge Island. The half-acre parcel also includes tidelands, shoreline, wetlands, and riparian vegetation—essential for maintaining Eagle Harbor’s ecological health and resilience to a changing climate.
In 2024, the property was listed for sale, raising concerns within the community about potential development that could threaten the sensitive habitat. After completing its standard due diligence process and negotiations, the Bainbridge Island Land Trust mobilized a fundraising campaign in February 2025 with a goal of $300,000 to secure the land. Thanks to an outpouring of community support, the campaign successfully raised the funds, enabling the Land Trust to purchase the property and ensure the long-term protection and stewardship of the rookery.
“This conservation success demonstrates our community’s deep commitment to protecting Bainbridge Island’s wildlife habitats and natural spaces,” said Cullen Brady, Executive Director of the Bainbridge Island Land Trust. “Because of this collective effort, the Winslow Heron Rookery will remain a safe haven for Great Blue Herons and other wildlife for generations to come.”
The Land Trust extends its gratitude to all the donors, volunteers, and partners who contributed to this effort. Their support underscores the community’s ongoing dedication to protecting the Island’s cherished natural environments.
In late March, several Great Blue Herons were seen returning to the rookery for their annual nesting season. The Winslow Heron Rookery itself is not open to the public to minimize disturbances to the nesting herons and maintain the integrity of the habitat. However, visitors can view some of the Rookery activity from Lovell Avenue.
Click here for more information on the Winslow Heron Rookery.