About Defend Cumberland

We are a community-based organization founded by a dedicated group of Southeast King County residents committed to preserving the unparalleled natural beauty and ecological integrity of our region. 

Cumberland is nestled amidst some of the most pristine wilderness areas remaining in our state, it is one of the last truly wild places left. However, this irreplaceable environmental treasure is under direct threat from a proposed aggregate mine and asphalt plant spanning 900 acres and will be located within a quarter mile of longtime Cumberland residents and right next to Kanasket Palmer State Park that welcomes nearly 200,000 visitors every year.

This disastrous development, (King County Special Project GRDE23-0083), risks causing permanent, irreversible damage to the local ecosystems and way of life. Independent studies by environmental scientists show that large-scale mining operations like this lead to significant habitat destruction and biodiversity loss. The asphalt plant component would also introduce harmful air pollutants that degrade air quality for our community, and create a critical public safety risk for those who use this rural road system as nearly 600 truck trips per day take over.

We cannot stand idly by as our cherished natural surroundings are stripped away by industry. Cumberland’s greatest assets are its serene environment and pristine landscapes – these define our unique character and identity as a town. Preserving this invaluable inheritance for future generations and honoring its historical significance to indigenous peoples since time immemorial is our utmost priority.

What began as a grassroots movement has now grown into a coalition of passionate, concerned citizens concentrated in Southeast King County, though who span the globe, united in fierce opposition to this aggregate mine and asphalt plant proposed to be located in what we all call the last of the wildplaces. Defend Cumberland is committed to raising awareness and fighting tirelessly through all available means to protect Cumberland and prevent this ecocide from occurring on our doorstep.

We invite all who value unspoiled nature and environmental stewardship to join our cause. Together, we can be the voice for the voiceless and ensure Cumberland’s sublime natural splendor persists for centuries to come.