The Forest Plan Passes - What Comes Next?

We’re excited to share some good news: the ACFL Forest Management Plan has been officially approved by the City of Anacortes!

The Forest Plan is the City’s long-term blueprint for how the Anacortes Community Forest Lands are stewarded, used, and cared for over the coming decades, guiding everything from habitat protection and climate resilience to recreation, access, and education. It provides a clear framework to balance conservation of this vital public asset with the community’s enjoyment of trails, lakes, and forest experiences.

With the plan now adopted, the next step is already underway. A new ordinance, number 5029—directly tied to the plan and its provisions—was approved by City Council this week.  Here are a few key elements of the ordinance.

• Enforcement: The Anacortes Police Department will oversee enforcement, including new language addressing off-trail use. During the summer months, the Anacortes School Resource Officer may also assist as resources allow.

• Conservation Easement Program (CEP): The CEP will be incorporated into the Anacortes Municipal Code. The rate will increase from $1,000 to $2,000 per acre for newly available land; an update that reflects inflation and brings 1988 values in line with today’s dollars.

• Drone Restrictions: The ordinance will prohibit drones from taking off or landing anywhere within ACFL property. In‑flight drone operations are regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration, so the City’s authority applies only to where drones may take off and land on ACFL property, not to how they are operated in the air.

We’re grateful to everyone who has spoken up, written comments, and stayed engaged throughout this Forest Plan process. As the Plan gets implemented, we’ll continue to share updates so you know when and how to get involved. Together, we can help ensure the ACFL remains a well-protected, well-loved forest for generations to come.