The eastern and western sides of the Grand Forest remain permanently protected now under the management of the Bainbridge Island Metropolitan Park & Recreation District.

Full ownership was transferred to the park district of the Hilltop property from the Bainbridge Island Land Trust, for purposes of long-term stewardship, management and conservation.

The acquisition now connects the eastern and western segments of the Grand Forest, resulting in more than 600 conserved acres across the island’s core.

Hilltop’s unique 5-acre meadow serves as the crown-jewel of the Grand Forest and provides forest fringe habitat and sweeping views of the Olympics from one of the island’s highest points. The entire property straddles the Fletcher Bay and Murden Cove watersheds, protecting the wetlands and streams that flow into the Puget Sound.

Jane Stone, executive director of the Bainbridge Island Land Trust, said the accomplishment is due to many hands.

“The incredible partnership with BIMPRD, overwhelming community support, and extensive volunteer efforts have been invaluable toward the preservation of Hilltop and improvements made since its acquisition,” Stone said. “It’s now time for Hilltop to join the many other protected lands we’ve transferred to Parks over the years.”

“I think we’d all agree Hilltop is in great hands,” Stone added.