501 (c) (3)

[Jeff Cook]

Hey,

I am getting ready to close on a property in Chewelah, WA. The property is a mountain that is to become a land trust for a yet to be established 501 (c) (3) organization. The objective is to restore the natural state of this poorly cared for forest.

I am thinking that there are people here that may have some experience with serving as a board member for their church or other land trusts. Any advice and input would be appreciated. Photos and a map to the property are at www.newopolis.com under properties owned tab.

The property is 427 acres with 160 acres of state owned land landlocked in the center of it. The property was once owned by a major timber company and was harvested and left to naturally fill in. A forest fire did extensive damage and the forest is struggling to survive. A major soil stabilization and reforestation effort is being planned.

I am also going to attempt to acquire or place a conservation easement on the state property and will need some political help there. Perhaps someone knows a lobbyist in the area.

Also, any Washington State investors that have knowledge of easement laws in Washington would be helpful. There is an old forest service road that crosses an adjacent property, but has been unused for years. One of the questions I have not gotten an answer to is if that is still an easement by appurtenance after being unused. One of the goals is to secure access to the top of the mountain for future management efforts.

Any Spokane, WA investors can meet me in Spokane on Saturday 7-20 at their convenience to discuss project. Community volunteers are also being sought to help in the replanting efforts.

Thanks,
Jeff