Letter from the Executive Director: Celebrating Success in Conservation

Kim Ngo is the Executive Director of the Issaquah Alps Trails Club.

As we reflect on the remarkable achievements of the past year, I want to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our generous donors, dedicated volunteers, and valued organizational partners. Your unwavering support has been instrumental in advancing our mission to restore and conserve the stunning landscapes of the Issaquah Alps. Together, we’ve made a lasting impact on the land, wildlife, and trails we all cherish.

A Significant Milestone

Thanks to your incredible generosity, we have raised over $130,000 since the start of our 45th Anniversary Campaign, supporting our mission of conservation, education, and advocacy. This includes an extraordinary $45,000 from our board match, multiplying the impact of your contributions. With this support, we’re positioned to make significant progress in the year ahead, ensuring the continued enhancement of our community’s natural beauty. We’re also deeply grateful for the invaluable grant support from community partners and charitable foundations—the City of Issaquah, the Snoqualmie Indian Tribe, Forterra, Horizons Foundation of Washington, and The Grousemont Foundation—whose contributions have expanded our reach and amplified our efforts.

 

VIew of Mount Rainier and paraglider from Poo Poo Point, photo courtesy of Kim Ngo

 

Making an Impact Together

Through your donations, volunteer efforts, and advocacy, we’ve accomplished so much in 2024. Together, we’ve made real strides in conserving the beauty and health of the Issaquah Alps for future generations.

Here are just a few highlights of what we’ve accomplished together in 2024:

  • Land Conservation: Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Save Coal Creek campaign and passionate activism of local residents, as well as the key collaboration of King County and Trust for Public Land, the City of Bellevue successfully acquired 12.2 acres in the Coal Creek area, conserving this vital habitat for generations to come.

  • Habitat Restoration: With your support, we hosted 28 restoration events across the Issaquah Alps, enhancing biodiversity and ecosystem health. This includes two new restoration sites: King County’s Big Tree Ridge Trailhead and the Green Issaquah Miyawaki Pocket Forest Project on Dogwood Street.

  • Hikes with a Purpose: We organized 40 guided educational hikes in partnership with new leaders and conservation organizations, helping foster a deeper appreciation for nature and encouraging greater community involvement in conservation.

  • Community Engagement: Our dedicated volunteers contributed over 800 hours, guiding, educating, and restoring our lands. These efforts have helped build a more engaged and informed community, passionate about responsible outdoor recreation.

 

Group photo of Grand Ridge Hike, photo courtesy of Kim Ngo

 

Resilience in Action

In addition to these accomplishments, I want to acknowledge the resilience of our community in the wake of recent storms. Together, we worked to restore damaged trails and lands, showing the power of collaboration and dedication during times of adversity. Your collective efforts have helped rebuild and strengthen the natural spaces we cherish, setting the stage for continued progress into 2025.

Looking Ahead

As we enter the new year, we remain focused on our mission to conserve the natural beauty of the Issaquah Alps. I invite you to join us on this journey—whether through donations, volunteer opportunities, or simply spreading the word about our mission. Every contribution, big or small, makes a meaningful impact.

I wish you moments of joy and peace amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Issaquah Alps. May the year ahead bring opportunities to explore, relax, and cherish nature’s beauty with those you love.

 

HIking through Tiger Mountain, photo courtesy of Kim Ngo

 

Thank you for being a vital part of our community. Your passion and commitment inspire me daily and fuel our efforts. Together, we will ensure that the Issaquah Alps remain accessible for generations to come.

With much appreciation,
Kim Ngo
Executive Director, Issaquah Alps Trails Club

For more information about our initiatives or to get involved,
please read about our programs and fill out our volunteer interest form.

 
 
Kim Ngo