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Christensen Pond Parcel Map
Aerial of Christensen Pond
Closer
Pond View
Pond View
Pond View
Pond View
Pond View
- click picture to enlarge -
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Christensen Pond
Christensen Pond forms the headwaters of Christensen Creek, which flows into Colvos Passage through the best preserved drainage area on Vashon. The pond is perhaps most important as a wildlife refuge. The pond itself is hidden from the road by the forest, and thus, has remained a pristine, high quality wildlife habitat. The pond and wetlands serve as a major wildlife site on the island with both migratory and year 'round species of birds. It is a major nesting site for waterfowl and migratory song birds, as well as supporting a substantial resident bird population. As a result, it is a major hunting ground for owls, great blue herons, hawks, and eagles. It is also rich in invertebrates and mammals such as otters.
In 2000, the 30 acres surround the pond went up for sale. In partnership with the Vashon Audubon Society, the Land Trust successfully raised the funds to buy the parcel purchase price. For the future, the Audubon Society will steward the property and is planning to build trails and bird watching blinds.
Hiking / Birding:
Access to Christensen Pond is marked by a "nature preserve" sign along Wax Orchards Road south of 232nd. Formal trails have not yet been built, so please tread gently. The best view of the pond is from the north end, so head in a northwesterly direction from the sign.
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