WA public lands chief seeks new revenue as timber policy faces scrutiny

Washington Public Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove paused timber sales in older forests to prioritize restoration and stakeholder input, including from tribal councils. He plans to propose legislation in 2026 to diversify revenue from state trust lands, focusing on ecological sustainability and public interest. Upthegrove highlighted that 70% of Washington’s wood supply comes from private lands, arguing that the paused sales would not lead to widespread economic harm. He aims to protect 77,000 acres while allowing logging on 29,000 acres, which he calls a "sweet spot" for balancing fiscal impacts. Critics, including editorial boards and former lawmakers, have expressed concerns over both the economic implications and the sufficiency of his plans.

Additionally, some conservationists feel his actions fall short of necessary protections. His department will propose a bill to participate in carbon and ecosystem service markets, which could supplement timber revenue. He also urged lawmakers to restore wildfire-prevention funding, warning that reduced funding could lead to more frequent and severe fires.