February VtF Newsletter

Jan 314 min read

Winter Greetings View the Future Supporters,

I can’t believe it’s already been six months since I stepped into my role as Executive Director—and I have to say, I love my job! The warm welcome and support from all of you have been incredible, and I’m so grateful to be part of this amazing conservation-minded community.

With the support of our dedicated working board, we’ve been focused on pushing our 2025 goals forward, building strong partnerships, and building momentum on progress for conservation. Things are really picking up, and we have some exciting conservation easement projects, collaborations with partner organizations, cultural presentations and workshops ahead, so stay tuned into our action!

We’re not just dreaming of a better future—we’re building it together. Can’t wait for what’s ahead!

With gratitude,

Gretchen Dubie

Executive Director, View the Future 😊

Donor Recognition

With Gratitude – Thank You, Supporters!

As we step further into the new year, we want to take a moment to look back and thank you—our incredible supporters! Your generosity, whether big or small, fuels our mission to protect and preserve the cherished lands of Yachats. We welcomed 51 new donors in 2024! We are very humbled and thankful for all new and old friends of View the Future- in perpetuity.

Together, we’re making a lasting impact, nurturing our natural spaces, and building a greener, stronger future. 💚

From all of us at View the Future, we deeply appreciate your trust, commitment, and support. Here’s to another year of conservation and community!

View the Future Board Goals

A Renewed Vision for 2025 – Our Focus for the Year Ahead

In January, the View the Future Board of Directors gathered at the Yachats Inn Tea Room for our annual retreat. We spent the day reflecting on our accomplishments, reaffirming our conservation values—both personally and professionally—and looking ahead with a renewed sense of purpose.

Our mission remains steadfast:

To preserve, protect, and enhance the natural environment, promoting collaborative actions for scientific, educational, recreational, cultural, and economic goals for the benefit of the Yachats community and its future generations. In 2025, we are eager and excited to expand on our conservation and cultural goals.

Here’s where we’re focusing our efforts:

🏔️ Protecting Yachats Ridge

As we work with partners to secure an umbrella owner to permanently protect this land, we’re offering monthly Yachats Ridge Tours every 4th Saturday. Experience the beauty of this landscape firsthand and see why it must be preserved forever! Reserve your spot today!

🌿 Expanding Community Education on Conservation Easements

We’re increasing our outreach in the community to help more people understand how conservation easements protect our precious lands. Learn more: View the Future - Conservation Easements.

🎤 Deepening Community Engagement Through Inspiring Events

We’re proud to sponsor thought-provoking talks, including:🔹 Zachary Stocks on Black pioneers in Oregon (April 17th) )🎞️ Marion Brooks on The Untold Story of Emmett Till (March 16th)🍃 Emergent Resilience’s Climate Wisdom Lab (September 11/12- registration coming soon!).

Our commitment to conservation is stronger than ever, and we’re thrilled for what’s ahead. Together, we’re shaping a future where Yachats’ natural and cultural heritage is protected for all.

Thank you for being part of this journey!

2025 Board Retreat (zoom attendees in spirit)

Land Trust News

VtF Hosts Conservation Leaders in Yachats

View the Future recently welcomed two key conservation leaders: Ashley Henry, Pacific Northwest Program Manager for the Land Trust Alliance, and Joe Buttafuoco, Executive Director of the Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts. Both new to their roles, they toured Yachats Ridge and met with VtF leaders to discuss conservation priorities and future collaboration.

The visit included the Amanda Gathering site, the suspension bridge, and a tour of the 1,100-acre Yachats Ridge property, offering breathtaking views of Cape Perpetua, and the Yachats River valley. Discussions covered conservation challenges, indigenous partnerships, and environmental justice.

Ashley and Joe recognized VtF’s leadership in cultural preservation and land protection, noting our work with area tribes as a leader among land trusts and a model for others across the country. Thank you for coming Joe and Ashley!

Left to right: Ashley, Joe, John, Gretchen

Celebrating Joanne Kittel – A True Champion for Yachats

On behalf of all of us at View the Future, our community, and our supporters, we extend our heartfelt wishes to Joanne Kittel for a very happy birthday on February 7th!

Joanne’s dedication has shaped Yachats in profound ways—enhancing recreational trails, uncovering and preserving Indigenous history, and fiercely protecting sacred sites. Her leadership and tireless advocacy for land conservation continue to inspire us all.

We are beyond grateful for Joanne’s vision, passion, and unwavering commitment to protecting the lands and history of Yachats. Please join us in celebrating this extraordinary woman today! Consider a gift to VtF in her honor! Happy Birthday, Joanne!