Issaquah Alps Trail Cam Project: Capture the Wild
The Issaquah Alps are a vibrant haven for wildlife, from the elusive mountain lions that roam its ridges to the playful bear cubs frolicking in the forest. But while these incredible creatures thrive in the wild, they remain largely unseen by the human eye—until now. We’re excited to unveil the Issaquah Alps Trail Cam Project, a new initiative that will bring these hidden wonders into the spotlight.
Photo courtesy of Alex Brown
In partnership with the City of Issaquah, we’re installing trail cameras throughout the Issaquah Alps to capture footage of the animals that call this beautiful region home. Through this project, we aim to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these wild spaces while also educating the public about responsible recreation. And let’s face it—who wouldn’t want to witness a bear cub's playful antics or catch a glimpse of a majestic elk in its natural habitat?
Why the Trail Cam Project Matters
Trail cameras are a powerful tool for monitoring wildlife in their natural environments without disrupting their behavior. These motion-activated devices offer rare, up-close views of animals in the Issaquah Alps—creatures that are often elusive and difficult to spot. The footage we capture will help us better understand the behaviors and movements of local wildlife, which in turn provides valuable data for conservation efforts.
Photo courtesy of Alex Brown
The Issaquah Alps are home to a diverse range of species, and by gathering this footage, we can ensure that these wild spaces remain protected for future generations. As the IATC community comes together to fund and monitor this project, we’ll gather the data needed to influence policies and strategies aimed at preserving the habitats that make these animals’ lives possible.
How You Can Get Involved
This project is powered by the efforts of YOU—our community, volunteers, and supporters. Whether you want to contribute your trail camera footage, volunteer your time to maintain the cameras, or make a donation to help fund the project, there are many ways to get involved and make a difference.
Already Have a Trail Cam? Contribute Your Footage!
Do you live near the Issaquah Alps and have a trail camera of your own? We’d love to include your footage in the project! By contributing data from your existing camera sites, you’ll help us expand our wildlife monitoring network. The more footage we collect, the more we can learn about the wildlife in this area and advocate for the protection of these spaces. Your contribution directly supports our conservation goals, helping us gather critical information about the animals that share this beautiful landscape.
We Need Cameras—Can You Help?
If you’re able to support the project directly, consider sponsoring a trail camera. TrailCamPro, an industry leader, is working with us to provide camera setups at a discounted rate of $200 each to support our conservation work. Each setup includes a camera, lock, batteries, and memory cards. By sponsoring a camera, you’ll help us capture more footage, expand our data collection capacity, and increase the scope of this important project. Sponsoring a camera is an investment in the future of the Issaquah Alps. Your contribution ensures that these wild lands will continue to be protected and that the incredible wildlife that calls them home can thrive.
Volunteer Help Needed!
We’re also looking for volunteers to assist with setting up and maintaining our camera sites. Tasks include swapping memory cards, changing batteries, and uploading footage for analysis. Volunteers will be asked to make approximately six trips a year, and all camera sites will be in safe, easily accessible locations. Not only will you have the opportunity to get outdoors and explore the Issaquah Alps, but you’ll also play an integral role in gathering the data that will guide conservation efforts for years to come.
Got Tech Skills? Help with Data Management and Editing!
Once the cameras capture footage, we’ll need help organizing, managing, and editing the raw data. If you have video editing skills, your expertise will be invaluable in turning this footage into engaging, shareable content. This content will be used for social media, educational outreach, and to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation. Your work can help amplify our message and inspire others to get involved in protecting the wildlife and ecosystems of the Issaquah Alps.
Photo courtesy of Alex Brown
A Special Thanks to Alex Brown – Project Coordinator & Community Leader
At the heart of the Issaquah Alps Trail Cam Project is Alex Brown, the project coordinator and community leader whose vision has driven this groundbreaking initiative. Alex has been the catalyst behind the project’s creation, rallying volunteers, community members, and partners to make a meaningful impact on the conservation of the Issaquah Alps.
Through his dedication and leadership, Alex has transformed this project into a vital tool for wildlife monitoring and environmental education. His ongoing vision inspires the IATC community to unite in support of safeguarding our local wildlife.
Photo courtesy of Alex Brown
Let’s Work Together to Conserve Our Wildlands
The Issaquah Alps Trail Cam Project offers an exciting opportunity to protect the animals and conserve the wild spaces that make this region so unique. Your involvement—whether through donations, volunteering, or contributing your camera footage—will help gather the critical data needed to advocate for the conservation of these habitats.
By supporting this project, you’re ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the same wildlife and natural beauty that we enjoy today. Together, we can conserve the Issaquah Alps, safeguard its diverse wildlife, and share the wonders of the wild with the world.
We can’t wait to see what we discover, and we need YOU to help make it happen!
