Fall 2026 Update - Banner Forest

 Dear South Kitsap Community,

Some great news since our last update. We received word that the process of making Banner Forest Heritage Park (BFHP) into a permanent park is now with the legal department for review and finalizing the documents. Once completed, the county commissioners are required to take a final vote and all indications at this time point to a yes vote.

Our group has gotten so many “thank you” comments but in fact, the credit goes to the community for stepping up to protect what belongs to them, and the commissioners listened.

Although BFHP will be allowed to grow naturally, there is and always will be work to do. To coordinate that work, the Banner Forest Stewardship Group (BFSG) has formed and is now hosting monthly work parties. We will be working with Kitsap County Parks Department to provide and maintain safe and enjoyable trails for all park users. From pruning back brush, repairing washouts, and removing the occasional fallen tree off trails, we need your help.

To help keep the community informed about BFHP activities, we created a website filled with news and information about work party schedules, work that needs to be accomplished, community outreach programs, ways to donate, and more. There is also a place to leave comments and suggestions. Please use it constructively for the benefit of all.

 Please visit savebannerforest.org and explore the options to see how you can get involved in work parties, make a donation, or to join our volunteer team.

Lastly, if you come to the Olalla Flea Market on October 10th, please come by our table. We’ll be there from 9:00AM to 4:00PM and we’d love to talk with you and share what has already been done and plans for the future of “our” heritage park.

Sincerely,

Friends of Banner Forest