Inside the Rainshadow

Sequim's iconic purple fields and annual lavender festivals are so central to the town's identity that it's surprising to learn that just a few decades ago, it was a hub for cattle and dairy farming.

While much of Western Washington is known for its pro-mold climate, the Sequim-Dungeness Valley has a much drier one due to being situated in a Rain Shadow.

This phenomenon occurs when winds carrying moisture from the Pacific Ocean are blocked by the Olympic Mountains, causing most of the rain to fall on the Hoh and Quinault rainforests.

The shift to lavender farming began as a way to diversify the local economy as dairy operations dwindled. Because lavender thrives in dry, sunny conditions and requires very little water, it was a perfect fit for Sequim's unique climate.

While on an outing to the Olympic Peninsula, I checked out B&B Family Lavender Farm. They were offering free tours, which was a cool way to see their process and learn about the different types of lavender they grow.

I was surprised to learn there are multiple varieties, specifically French and English lavender.