The following is a re-print by permission from the San Juan Preservation Trust regarding funds needed to repair the breakwater at Vendovi Island. Let’s keep this very special and beautiful island accessible for boaters! Your contributions are vital, please read their article below:
Caring for land in perpetuity is a critical part of our mission. But sometimes our protected lands come with buildings, access roads, docks, and even kitchen sinks that all require care and maintenance. On Vendovi Island Preserve, one critical structure now needs urgent attention: the North Cove breakwater.
Since 2010, Vendovi has been open to the public, welcoming about 2,500 visitors between April and September each year. Boaters, kayakers, students, and hikers arrive through the North Cove before exploring 217 acres of lush forests, wildflower meadows, serene shorelines, and three miles of trails. But all access depends on the North Cove breakwater, which shelters the island’s only dock and creates calm water for both people and wildlife.
After years of weathering tides and storms, the breakwater now requires major repairs. Our team has completed site assessments, coordinated with engineers, and obtained environmental permits. We also continue to monitor the area’s sensitive wildlife habitat to inform restoration plans. Pigeon Guillemots nest in crevices near the breakwater and depend on calm waters to raise their young. Purple Martins, Washington’s largest swallows, return each spring from the Amazon to nest in boxes above the dock.
To assist with the estimated $660,000 cost of repairing the breakwater, the Preservation Trust has launched a campaign to raise $280,000 in private contributions—ensuring continued public access and habitat protection. As part of the work, we will also remove shoreline armoring to restore natural coastal processes for salmon and other fish.
Learn more and discover how you can support the Vendovi Island Breakwater Restoration project by clicking HERE.
Article By San Juan Preservation Trust
Photos Courtesy of San Juan Preservation Trust
The Mission of San Juan Preservation Trust is to preserve the unique character of the San Juan Islands for future generations and connect people to nature. This non-profit organization establishes reserves and works with property owners to create conservation easements for future preservation. Many preserves are open to the public. To read more about these preserves, click HERE.
