Megan Blackburn Friend is fundraising
Defend the 230-Year-Old Fir Tree—And the Land It Calls Home
Help Us Protect the 230-Year-Old Fir Tree—and the Rights of Those Who Care for It
We are Friends of Strong Point, a grassroots group working to preserve the historic and natural beauty of Strong Point in Cathlamet, Washington—home to a Douglas fir tree that has stood for over 230 years.
This tree is more than just a natural landmark; it’s deeply rooted in the history of our community and the land owned by the Wahkiakum County Historical Society. Yet its future is now uncertain as the Town of Cathlamet moves forward with plans for its new Waterfront Park, which involve changes to this cherished space.
The town has been operating an asphalt path through the Historical Society’s property under a recreational land use permit issued in 1989. However, the Society believes this permit does not grant the town the right to make major alterations or remove significant features—like the fir tree—without consultation and agreement from the board entrusted with the care of this land.
To ensure their rights are upheld, and their voice is heard, the Historical Society has had to seek legal counsel—an unplanned but necessary expense for an organization committed to education, preservation, and stewardship.
We’re raising funds to help cover these legal costs. If we exceed our goal, additional donations will support arborist care for the tree and future stewardship efforts through Friends of Strong Point.
This effort is about more than saving a tree. It’s about honoring our past, respecting property rights, and protecting the places that shape our rural identity—now and for generations to come.
Please consider donating or sharing. Every contribution helps.
Thank you for standing with us!
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