Washington, the Evergreen State, has amazing diversity of forest and public lands that provide recreation, wood products, wildlife habitat, clean water and public parks. The commissioner of public lands plays a vital leadership role to ensure these resources are utilized for the public good.
One candidate, Democrat Dave Upthegrove, has the education, understanding of environmental issues, and years of experience addressing forest health, land use and effects of climate change that qualify him for this position. He was recognized for his positive work by WA Conservation Voters as “Legislator of the Year.”
In contrast, Republican candidate Jaime Herrera Beutler has no background in lands/forest management, nor scientific basis for forest health. Her statement in the Voters’ Pamphlet is fear-based: “Decades of neglect have turned our forests into overcrowded, diseased tinderboxes.” This is misinformation and ignores the reality and resiliency of forests the public is visiting for recreation and foresters are stewarding for future generations.
We need competent candidates for state/local offices: Upthegrove, public lands; Marla Keethler, state Senate 17th District; Terri Niles, 17th District representative; Amanda Kitchens, Klickitat County commissioner. Their qualities will serve the public.
