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Overview: King County Conservation Futures
Conservation Futures is the primary source of funding for the Land Conservation Initiative (LCI). The LCI has a goal to preserve our most important natural lands and urban green spaces. The LCI also seeks to add open spaces in underserved communities. Learn more about the Land Conservation Initiative goals in this short video.
Conservation Futures protects many types of open spaces across King County
Conservation Futures protects many types of open spaces across King County
Neighborhood green and open space to create more livable neighborhoods
Land to connect trails and communities to increase livability & inspire healthy living
Natural lands for wildlife, recreation, & resilience in an uncertain future
River corridors to sustain salmon and reduce flooding
Farmlands and community gardens for healthy local food
Forestlands to support clean air, clean water, cooler summers, and recreation.
» Learn more about Conservation Futures grant application process and policies
Fifty years ago, Washington State authorized the Conservation Futures Tax levy (CFT), allowing counties to collect a small levy from landowners to protect open space. King County is one of 14 counties statewide that levy a conservation futures tax – protecting forests, shorelines, farms, greenways, and trails for future generations to enjoy forever.
Thank you to King County voters who approved Proposition 1 in November 2022, restoring Conservation Futures to its authorized rate of 6.25 cents per $1,000 Assessed Value. In 2023, the owner of a median priced home pays about $50 per year into Conservation Futures.
News archive
May 19, 2022
Dow Constantine proposes raising King County property taxes to preserve rivers, forests, natural spaces
May 26, 2021
Protecting and restoring Bear Creek watershed, one of the most productive salmon habitats in all of King County
June 20, 2019
Executive Constantine’s plan will ensure all King County residents have access to open spaces