Our Environment: Central Washington is a Beautiful Place to Live
Having grown up in Central Washington, I have always been captivated by the beauty of our lands and I want to ensure that our children and grandchildren have the same opportunity to enjoy them.
I support efforts to protect and conserve our waterways, public lands and other natural resources. And, I’m committed to ensuring that Central Washington residents have a meaningful role in how our resources are managed.
We must preserve the integrity of our public lands, but always remember that these lands are owned by the people and a balanced must be achieved that permits families and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy them.
I’ve worked to ensure public access to areas like the Juniper Dunes recreation area, Rattlesnake Mountain and in the Hanford Reach. I’ve authored bills to keep cabin fees affordable for local residents, rebuild Stehekin road so that visitors can access the North Cascades National Park and allow fish stocking in the North Cascades National Park to continue.
The Endangered Species Act is in need of reform and I’m working to strengthen the Act so that resources are used more effectively and a greater emphasis is placed on sound science and local input.
Historically high salmon returns over recent years are evidence that progress is being made and that our dams should not be breached. We must focus on all factors affecting fish, including ocean conditions, predators, and overfishing.
In my view, effective stewardship of our natural resources must be driven locally, based on sound science and rooted in common sense.
