For Immediate Release:

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), the author of Senate legislation to designate 106,577 acres of Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest as wilderness, today applauded House passage of companion legislation.

"After years of pushing Wild Sky up the mountain, Rep. Rick Larsen finally got it to the top. I congratulate him and all our House co-sponsors of this bill for their hard work and commitment to getting us to this point.

"Wild Sky reflects the values of our state and respects the economic and recreational interests of the people of Snohomish County. Rick and I have worked hand in hand with local stakeholders, business owners, outdoor enthusiasts and community leaders to get this bill done the right.

"We have passed Wild Sky three times now in the Senate, and I am confident we will do it one more time. I look forward to a signing ceremony and celebration in the near future. This is the right thing to do for our economy, our environment and future generations."