At its regular monthly public meeting in November, the state Board of Natural Resources (Board) authorized funds for the purchase of a 105.7-acre parcel in eastern King County that will preclude its commercial development.

The $1.26 million purchase of the property, known as Echo Lake, from a group of private sellers effectively prevents nonforest-related development here. The site, which borders the Raging River State Forest managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is currently approved for 10 home sites.

“This acquisition will preserve vital working forestland, while enhancing stream and wildlife protection in the I-90 corridor,” said Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark.

DNR will manage the parcel to protect stream and forest habitat for fish and wildlife, while producing sustainable long-term income to the Common School Trust, which funds public school construction statewide.