TLC
The Land Conservancy

of British Columbia
5793 Old West Saanich Road
Victoria, B.C. V9E 2H2
(250) 79-8053 Fax (250) 7-2251

   WildWood Appeal

November 26, 2000,

Urgent appeal Re: Merve Wilkinson Property - Wildwood.

About 16 months ago The Land Conservancy became aware of a very difficult  situation at Wildwood. We found that upon Merve's death the property would  transfer to a previous partner and would be sold for development.

TLC began negotiations (with Merve's blessing) with his former partner and  after the land and timber appraisal, eventually completed a very complicated  arrangement. If it can be funded, it will provide for Merve's needs and see  Wildwood preserved in perpetuity as an ecoforestry demonstration and learning  facility.

The basic details of the agreement are: The total appraised value of the  property and timber is 1,010,000 Merve owns 25% of the property. The other  owner's share can be purchased for 760,000. This purchase will occur over a  30 month period starting December 20th 2000. To purchase this share TLC must  raise the down payment of 160,000 by December 20th 2000 and be comfortable  that we can then make regular monthly payments of 20,000 plus interest for  the next 30 months. 

Merve has generously agreed to donate a 15% interest in the property of TLC  immediately. He has further agreed to sell to TLC the remaining 10% interest  in the property on a 10 year term with 2 very special provisions which allow  us to pay him sooner in the event of an emergency need on his or Anne's part  and with the agreement that any outstanding balance will be forgiven in the  event of both of their deaths.

Merve and Anne will continue to live and work on the property as long as  either of them lives. Merve will be directly involved in the planning and  management of Wildwood. The property will be covenanted in perpetuity and it  is out intent to lease it to the Ecoforestry Institute for its operation.
TLC is already discussing the construction of a small accommodation facility  on the site for use by student groups.

There are other small details to work out but I am absolutely certain that,  if we can fund the purchase, Wildwood will be protected in perpetuity and  that we have made a very good arrangement for Merve.

The problem now is to assemble the money to make it happen. There is very  little time. I urgently need your help and the help of those others who know  and love Merve, Ann and Wildwood.

I am asking you directly to consider an immediate donation and a pledge to  help with the monthly payments.

I would also ask that we be able to announce the donation publicly to help  inspire others to respond and respond quickly.

Thank you for considering this request. Together we can save Wildwood for  future generations. We can not let Merve's life work be lost.

Sincerely
Bill Turner,
Executive Director (Volunteer)