More funds raised to buy Kiket Island

This project will purchase 95 acres of waterfront property with more than two miles of high-quality, near-pristine shoreline habitat to protect it from development and expand Deception Pass State Park.

The Puget Sound Partnership is a community effort of citizens, governments, tribes, scientists and businesses working together to restore and protect Puget Sound.

Other state funds of up to $4.5 million are also available through the Washington Wildlife & Recreation Coalition for the island’s purchase. The Seattle P-I reported that the state has authority to spend up to $8 million in federal funds for the purchase.

In an e-mail to WWRC board members, Peter Dykstra, the state director of The Trust for Public Land, said “this is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to preserve this unique property for the public to experience the Puget Sound's shorelines in unique ways. Kiket Island is located near the most heavily-used park in the Washington State Park system -- Deception Pass -- and will add to the important role that park plays in providing Washington residents and visitors a chance to reconnect with the beauty of Puget Sound."

But, more money may need to be raised for the purchase. The total amount to be paid for the island will be based on an independent appraisal to be reviewed by state and federal authorities and won't exceed $15 million.

Kiket Island connected to Fidalgo Island by a tombolo, over which runs an access road. Thus, Kiket Island is not what most people would consider an island.