Quilcene Ancient Forest Coalition
Mission Statement

The Quilcene Ancient Forest Coalition (QUAFCO) was formed in March 1989 to promote the protection of old-growth forests, specifically on the Quilcene Ranger District.

Since that time QUAFCO has evolved into an organization committed to educating the public as to the importance of balanced forest ecosystems. We realize that biology does not recognize land-ownership boundaries, but we have remained focused on federal lands. Our goal is to work cooperatively whenever possible with Forest Service personnel in the resolution of any disagreements.

We continue to educate ourselves about current procedures, standards, guidelines and scientific information to be able to assess the effects of District actions on resources.

QUAFCO networks with other groups and individuals promoting genuine forest protection. We insist that the right to challenge agency actions in court be preserved. The sacrifice of these rights to meet short-term political goals does not solve the complex problems facing our forests.

QUAFCO has sponsored a series of classes and continuing programs on topics such as ecology, logging practices, forest data collection and hydrology.

QUAFCO filed an appeal which helped lead to the City of Port Townsend and the Quilcene Ranger District agreeing to plan to jointly manage the Port Townsend watershed for water quality, thereby allowing the City to avoid expensive filtration costs at this time. QUAFCO pulled the appeal based on this agreement.

QUAFCO was a primary opponent to the off-road vehicle park which was proposed for the Quilcene Ranger District.

QUAFCO's onsite review of the Breezin' Area Blowdown project resulted in enhanced stream protection and snag retention. We advocated the road obliteration accomplished in this area.

QUAFCO attends issues-related conferences, periodic meetings with Rep. Norm Dicks, and as many Forest Service public-involvement forums as their design allows. QUAFCO fills an environmental position on the Olympic Provincial Advisory Committee.

QUAFCO continues to respond in depth to Forest Service Plans and Environmental Impact Statements, such as the Management of Habitat for Late-Successional and Old-Growth Forest Related Species Within the Range of the Northern Spotted Owl, and currently is monitoring implementation of the Northwest Forest Plan.