Environment
Washington state residents take great pride in our state’stremendous 
natural beauty – from old-growth forests to
high-altitude mountains, and from rugged coasts to low-lying salmon
streams. I believe that environmental protection and healthy natural
resources are compatible with long-term economic growth. And I’ve
joined with local leaders to protect our state’s environment, enhance
recreational opportunities in the region, and to promote innovative,
locally based approaches.
As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I have consistently worked to increase funding for environmental protection and resource management programs. And as an outdoor enthusiast and a sponsor of several environmental bills, I will continue to champion legislation to keep our environment strong and healthy and enhance the quality of life for everyone in our state.
My Priorities
- Upholding robust environmental laws to prevent future environmental degradation.
- Supporting sensible policies to address climate change.
- Preserving and protecting public lands.
- Increasing environmental education and research opportunities.
- Ensuring environmental programs receive adequate federal support.
My Accomplishments
- Championed the Wild Sky Wilderness Act, which was signed into law in May 2008 – the first new wilderness area in Washington state in 20 years.
- Led efforts to increase federal support and ensure the timely cleanup of the Hanford Nuclear Site in order to protect local residents and the surrounding natural resources.
- Worked to secure funding for the Pacific Coastal Salmon Recovery Fund for salmon restoration projects throughout the Pacific Coast region.
- Supported legislation to protect our nation’s air, water, wetlands, forests, and other wilderness.
- Worked to designate the Hanford Reach National Monument, a 51-mile, free-flowing stretch of the Columbia River and a key salmon spawning ground.
- Helped create – and continue to support – the Northwest Straits Initiative to restore and educate citizens about vital marine ecosystems in the Puget Sound and the straits of Georgia and Juan de Fuca.