The state's first conservation easement set an inspiring example for preservation. Held jointly by Seattle Pacific University and the San Juan Island Preservation Trust, the property includes 800 acres of virgin forest, important grass ridges and wildlife habitat, and nearly three miles of coastline.

It is the rare real estate project that proceeds along predictable lines. Blakely Island is no exception.

In a complex process marked by a series of partners, negotiations and transactions, Trillium became the owner of 3,800 acres of the 4,200-acre island in the San Juan Island archipelago in 1973.

After exploring several possibilities for developing the serene island, Trillium, together with partner and part-time islander Tom Crowley, determined that safeguarding Blakely's natural heritage and quiet character was paramount.

Trillium devised a strategy for doing so, cutting key deals with more landowners, then researching and orchestrating what became the state's first conservation easement in 1976.

The property was then turned over to Seattle Pacific University, giving students and scientists permanent access to the property's unspoiled lakes, forests and coastline for environmental education.