Persons who own old barn in Pierce County or the surrounding area, may not be aware of the Heritage Barn Preservation Initiative.

The Heritage Barn Preservation Initiative is a program of the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation. This initiative established the Heritage Barn Register, a statewide list of historically significant barns. Owners of historic barns over fifty years old that retain a significant degree of historic integrity can nominate their barn to be designated as a “Heritage Barn” and be included in the statewide register. Owners of designated barns are eligible to apply for matching grants available to assist with barn stabilization and rehabilitation projects.

The Washington Trust for Historic Preservation will be hosting a free workshop from 4 to 5:30 p.m Wednesday in the Allmendinger Center at the WSU Research and Extension Center in Puyallup for barn owners wishing to learn more about the Heritage Barn Preservation Initiative.

Chris Moore, Field Director with the Washington Trust for Historic Preservation, will be on hand to answer questions and discuss the process for completing program documents.

The next deadline for nominating a barn to the Heritage Barn Register is Sept. 25, with the deadline to submit applications requesting barn rehabilitation grant funds set for Nov. 4. Come join us to learn more about this wonderful opportunity and to obtain assistance in participating in this valuable program.

The Allmendinger Center at the WSU Research & Extension Center is located at 2606 W. Pioneer in Puyallup. For more information about the workshop or the Heritage Barn Preservation Initiative call Chris Moore at 206-624-9449 or visit www.wa-trust.org.

Complete information about the Heritage Barn Program, including nomination and application forms, can be found at www.dahp.wa.gov.