The McKenzie Community Land Trust (MCLT)—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit composed of dedicated McKenzie neighbors and stakeholders—is actively working to support the entire McKenzie by ensuring long-term livability through resilient community rebuilding through the proven community land trust model.

Our Origin Story

The Holiday Farm Fire of September 2020 forever changed our rural, unincorporated valley, destroying over 500 homes, burning 173,000 acres, and erasing the town of Blue River overnight. Five years later, we continue to stand together, honoring those who lived here before the fire while building a stronger, more inclusive future for current residents and generations to come.

In an unincorporated area like ours, the need for a strong local voice has never been greater. Accessible housing remains a critical challenge, with rebuilding costs soaring and many homes still unrestored. The community land trust model emerged as a powerful, community-driven solution.

Community land trusts are nonprofit organizations that steward land for lasting public benefit. They enable permanently affordable housing, commercial spaces, parks, and more. By owning the land and leasing it long-term, MCLT keeps homes accessible for local families—prioritizing fire survivors and essential workers—while fostering a diverse, thriving valley with housing for all incomes, vital services, open spaces, locally owned businesses, and a healthy environment.

Today, MCLT is delivering real progress: In December 2025, we celebrated the completion and ribbon-cutting of the Rose Street Neighborhood in Blue River—six new, firewise homes are for sale. With additional land acquisitions, we are advancing plans for more neighborhoods, including options for middle-income families and mixed use commercial spaces. As a growing, nimble organization, we collaborate closely with partners, agencies, foundations, volunteers, nonprofits, businesses, and neighbors to seize new opportunities for community benefit.

We can't rebuild the McKenzie alone. We're in this together, for a resilient valley that welcomes everyone. Join Us!