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On behalf of the Suquamish Olalla Neighbors we urge the State of Washington to seek a solution for the Old Man House State Park on the Port Madison Reservation that respects the sacredness of this land to the Suquamish Tribe and helps to heal past wrongs to the Tribe and divisions existing in the local community.
We recognize that the area that includes Old Man House State Park has a unique and historic significance to the "First Residents" of this area. We also acknowledge that the park is highly valued by the current area residents and is the focal point of many neighborhood activities.
Our concern about this issue stems from our purpose in fostering a sense of community and understanding among
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tribal and non-tribal residents of the Port Madison Reservation. We support the Suquamish Tribe in its right to self-determination and governance while also promoting friendship and healing between tribal and non-tribal residents.
The Suquamish Olalla Neighbors support the transfer of Old Man House State Park to the Suquamish Tribe. We look upon the Tribe's formal proposal of a
community management plan for the park as an opportunity to build harmony and mutual respect among neighbors.
We believe that this can be done in a way that allows all those who now enjoy the park's amenities to continue to do so.
We eagerly offer our support to help make this opportunity a reality.
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I have been told that the Park Department has funding problems and is hoping to get communities to take over maintenance.. this includes Ol' Man Park. The Tribe has requested that it be returned to them and said they would not bar non-natives from the use of it. Then the Friends of the Park seems to worry that the Tribe might not adhere to that and had offered to look after the park and raise money for its maintenance. What a wonderful opportunity this could be for all of us to work on!
Historically and ethically, of course, the Park belongs to the Tribe and if the Friends Group wants to look after it, why cant The Tribe give them a contract to do that?
Perhaps my own experience can reassure the worryers.
For over a quarter of a century, I have had a very happy and respectful relationship with the Tribe, first when my husband and I allowed them to try an experimental hatchery on one of our streams. When we learned this would mean dams and ponds, my husband insisted they insure us in case of accidents. They readily complied.
Now, in 2003, they own the 13 acres
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of land, I have life estate and live here. The Tribe pays property taxes They have hatcheries on both streams, and have the most successful small hatchery in the State. It provides employment and enough returning salmon for all the fisherfolk, both commercial and sport, native and non-native. Carcasses are given to the community, often for free, for smoking and fertilizer. Surplus eggs are used to seed streams all over Kitsap County and other counties and Seattle .School children are brought here and learn the importance of protecting the environment for all the creatures that live here.
In all these years, the Tribe has honored all the conditions of the contract, keeping the requirements of Open Space category and being good stewards of the land.. The Tribe has invites me to many of their events, and I feel privileged and happy to have this contact.
Nearing 87, I have learned that no one knows the future but to worry about problems that might happen can make living unhappy. Open your hearts and minds to the rich culture around us.
Enjoy!
Virgina Cowling
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