History

For many years the Sanctuary cove was a natural refuge because of its location: out of the wind, and with protective thickets of vegetation including blackberries around the shoreline. Around 2017 fishers started hacking holes through the vegetation and making their way to the shore to fish. Eventually these became social trails. Some community members raised concerns and promoted protecting the habitat and fostering the wildlife. Various groups supported the effort, including the Lakewood Seward Park Neighborhood Association (LSPNA).

In 2022 Seattle Parks and Recreation recognized the importance of the area, which is within Lake Washington Boulevard Park, and put up fencing. The Sanctuary was underway! In 2023 Green Seattle Partnership (GSP) took it on as a project, removing blackberries and planting more than 500 native plants. Additional plantings are planned. The Sanctuary is part of a City of Seattle effort to maintain lakeside ecosystems, and dovetails with the Lake Washington Boulevard Renovations Project, in particular the effort at shoreline restoration.

This area actually has a long history as a sanctuary. One hundred years ago in the 1930s it was used as a bird refuge and feeding station for ducks and other aquatic birds, with financial support from Donald Frederick, of Frederick & Nelson department-store fame.

Lakewood Sanctuary is but a small part of the south Lake Washington ecosystem that includes Seward Park, Lake Washington Boulevard and Andrews Bay, as well as Martha Washington Park, Pritchard Beach Park, Beersheva Park, Atlantic City Marina, and Chinook Beach Park. Maintaining habitats, even if fragmented, is critical for ecological health and wildlife survival. The Friends of Lakewood Sanctuary is thrilled that the Lakewood Sanctuary can play a role in supporting native Northwest flora and fauna.

For a more detailed history of the Lakewood Sanctuary and the original Sanctuary project proposal:

• Download Lakewood Sanctuary PDF
• View Lakewood Sanctuary PDF