The coastal forests that reach down to touch the Salish Sea at Governors Point are a unique treasure. This special place provides nesting habitat for a vast array of birds, supports spawning fish that sustain salmon populations and harbors amazing intertidal life. For decades Whatcom Land Trust has sought for viable options to protect the bulk of Governors Point. In February of 2018, Randy Bishop purchased Governors Point for $5.7 million dollars, and the Land Trust finally found an owner not only willing but insistent and eager to conserve a substantial part of the property. After purchasing the property, Randy Bishop sought out the Land Trust. Rather than telling us what he might be willing to do, Bishop asked, “what does the Land Trust want on Governors Point.” The question started a conversation about a nature reserve with significant conservation and public access values.

Rather than the allowed 25 residences, Bishop will build 16 custom designed homes, one at a time. He describes his plans for “a limited number of architecturally rich, small footprint homes” clustered on the west side of the peninsula.

On September 13th, 2023 Randy Bishop and Whatcom Land Trust will sign a legally binding agreement donating 98 acres, over 3/4 of the peninsula to Whatcom Land Trust for a public access nature reserve.

The nature reserve will include a trail which will allow for public access to the prime beach on the east and west side of Governors Point. The east and west beaches will be accessible by self-propelled watercraft such as kayaks, canoes and paddle boards.