WA plan to conserve 77,000 acres of older forests draws fire

Washington's Public Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove faced backlash over his proposal to conserve 77,000 acres of older forests while allowing logging on 29,000 acres. Critics, including logging representatives and school officials, voiced concerns that the plan could lead to job losses and impact funding for essential school projects. Forester Austin Serrano emphasized the potential revenue loss for beneficiaries, while Eatonville School Board President Ronda Litzenberger stressed the importance of timber revenue for their capital projects. Additionally, the plan has raised alarms about the future of sustainable timber harvest levels in the state. Supporters of the proposal, such as state Superintendent Chris Reykdal, advocate for reducing reliance on dwindling timber resources.

They argue that the shift is necessary for long-term funding stability for schools. The Washington State Association of Counties highlighted their surprise at the lack of communication regarding the proposal's development. This ongoing debate underscores the tension between environmental priorities and economic needs in Washington.