South Fork Beach Association

Location: Valley Highway, Deming
Size: 6.4 acres
Public Access: Yes
Easement granted: June 1993
Easement type: Conservation
Grantees: Whatcom Land Trust

1927

Continued coexistence of humans and wildlife in a favorite riverside recreation area, and prevention of development, is the aim of this easement  The property straddles the South Fork of the Nooksack River near its confluence with the main river.  The 600 feet of low bank waterfront has historically been used by residents of the South Fork Valley for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking in the summer.

The property is forested with Western red cedar, spruce, hemlock, fir, maple, alder, birch and willow, with an understory of vine maple and salmonberry bushes.  The stream is fish bearing, and eagles scavenge for salmon carcasses in the river.  The beach often reveals tracks of birds and small mammals, and river otters have been seen swimming in the channel.  Beavers also are at work in the area.

In May of 1993, Paul Moceri and Sue Porter sold the property to Tom Chambers.  The same day, Chambers transferred the deed to the South Fork Beach Association.

Home, after all, is the place where finally we make our living. It is the place for which we take responsibility, the place we try to sustain so we can pass on what is best in it, and in ourselves, to our children. — William Cronon