04-11-10
The Puget Sound
A jewel of Washington, the Puget Sound region is dotted with major cities such as Seattle, Bellingham, Tacoma, Everett, and Port Townsend. Vashon, Bainbridge, and Whidbey Islands, along with many others, are home to diverse populations and outstanding views.
Having lived in Tacoma for four years, I speak from first hand experience when I say that the Puget Sound region is truly like no other. The sense of community is palpable, and the access to water, snow, and mountain sports is unrivaled. One can hike in the Olympic National Forest, kayak in the Sound, and climb Mt. Vernon all in the same day if desired. The area is an outdoor-lover’s paradise. Densely populated around the coastline but sparse inland, Washington has something to offer the adventurer in each of us.
Is your idea of a great day shopping and navigating the maze of Pike’s Place Market in Seattle, or would you rather rent a boat and speed around the San Juan Islands to the north? Snow shoe, or dine on fresh crab, halibut, and sablefish with a glass of local Riesling? One has to ask oneself, why not do it all?
If you’re considering purchasing land in the Pacific Northwest, explore all the Puget Sound region has to offer. I promise you won’t be disappointed.
04-04-10
WA Agriculture: Variety is the Spice of Life
Because of the variety of climate zones in the state, Washington has the ability to produce a range of varied crops. The rain shadow, courtesy of the Cascades, splits the state in terms of rainfall, with the eastern steppe receiving often less than 18” annually, while west of the mountains, rain fall is abundant, averaging roughly 40” per year. What makes Washington stand out in terms of soil is the fact that much of the area has been formed, albeit 6-17 million years ago, by a series of powerful volcanic eruptions. This means that the soil is still today rich and loamy in the valleys. As farmers will tell you, the chemical content of volcanic soils is some of the best in the world (see: plants love nitrogen).
As explained by the Washington Agricultural Department, over 10,00 years ago receding glaciers across the state scraped the topsoil, creating valleys, rivers and streams, washing many tons of fertile soil into the flood plains. Known as the Columbia River Valley today, the region is famed for its vineyards and capabilities to produce some of the world’s best Pinots and Cabernets.
Farmland covers roughly 35% of the state and comes in second only to California is terms of variety of crops produced (about 230). Perhaps not surprisingly, Washington’s highest cash crop is apples. Each year, 57% of the nation’s apples are shipped from the state.
If you’re interested in purchasing farmlands to begin your own agricultural endeavors, Washington offers a myriad of options. From flood plains, to fertile valleys, dry deserts, to the steep eastern steppe, the state’ economy is fixed firmly to the land. A characteristic that means that the population is highly aware of it’s value, and works to protect it.
03-19-10
Washington, Huh?
Searching for unparalleled access to the outdoors? Enjoy a glass of local wine after a day of hiking through lush wilderness? Love discovering new local treasures every day? You’ve come to the right place.
As a four year veteran of calling this state home, I can say that Washington’s “Evergreen” title is justified. Forest covers much if not most of the state and the ecological effects are palpable. The state is highly aware of the role it plays in lowering our national carbon footprint and therefore is active in many statewide programs to protect our wildlife and natural resources, control air quality, and make roads more accessible for bicyclists, among many others.
With the Cascade Range and the Olympics, the phrase “I’m bored” simply does not exist in Washington’s vocabulary. Looking to settle down? Washington is a fantastic place to raise a family. Teach the next generation about the importance of being stewards to the land by taking a trip to one of the regions’ popular destinations: discover Snoqualmie Falls, hike Mount Reiner, or marvel at the stunning beauty of the San Juan Islands.
Is relaxing in style more your speed? During the past several decades, the state has become world renowned for its wines and varietals. Check out the Puget Sound and indulge in some of Seattle famous cutting edge cuisine.
But what makes Washington truly special is the people. The Northwest has that special characteristic, difficult to describe, but ever present: Washington folks care greatly about the land in which they live. If you’re in search of clean air, rich soil, delicious wine, craft breweries, incredible mountains, and breathtaking views, Washington is the place for you.
