Fundraising Milestone
First Payment made toward purchase of former Millsite    

On January 10, 2008 a payment of $55,000 was made to Lakeside Industrial Park LLC toward the purchase of 130 acres at the east edge of Philomath, the former site of the Clemens Veneer Mill. This property includes the critical Newton Creek wetlands, and has been vacant for two decades. A two year purchase option agreement was signed last May, and prior to completing this initial payment, both parties agreed to add an additional two years to the agreement. Our non-profit organization now has a three year window to secure 2 million dollars and complete the land acquisition. Funding of a portion of the acquisition cost is pending final approval from Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB). These funds come from the Oregon Lottery through Measure 66.

Donations totaling more than $76,000 were made by 106 local Benton County residents.

A very generous donation by Terri Odell in memory of her late husband Tom Haswell was critical to reaching our 2007 fundraising goal. This contribution toward the acquisition and preservation of the Newton Creek wetlands will be a lasting tribute to Tom and a valuable gift to the  Benton County community.  
Thank You Terri and Tom!

Thank you MPNRIC Donors: