Reichert Alpine Lakes Legislation Passes House

Washington, D.C. – Today, the House of Representatives passed legislation from U.S. Congressman Dave Reichert (R-WA) to expand the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Area in Washington State and designate both the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic. The legislation was first introduced by Rep. Reichert in 2007, and he has since tirelessly championed the wilderness protection of Alpine Lakes in order to preserve this local gem for future generations.

“I am thrilled to see the Alpine Lakes Wilderness Additions and Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers Protection Act pass the House today as part of a lands package included within the National Defense Authorization Act,” said Reichert. “Making this long-time goal a reality has been one of my top priorities since introducing this bill in 2007. I have worked tirelessly with my House and Senate colleagues as well as community members and local stakeholders – all who share my vision of preserving and protecting Alpine Lakes. The Alpine Lakes area is a perfect example of the natural beauty of our great state that also contributes to job creation and the success of local economies. This is the kind of legacy I want passed down to our children and grandchildren and with today’s House passage I truly believe that Alpine Lakes will forever be a part of their heritage.”

The existing Alpine Lakes Wilderness was designated by Congress in 1976 and is one of the most visited wilderness areas in the country. Key elements of the Alpine Lakes legislation include:

• Providing the protection of the Wilderness Act of 1964 for the lower elevation lands, which will bring a richer diversity of ecosystems, including deeply forested valleys, into the wilderness area and increase its overall biodiversity. The addition of these 21,000 acres of public land into wilderness has the direct effect of protecting a broader array of outdoor recreational opportunities easily accessible for wilderness enthusiasts.
• Designating the Pratt and Middle Fork Snoqualmie Rivers as Wild and Scenic, which would permanently protect the rivers’ free-flowing character, water quality and outstanding recreation, fisheries, wildlife, geological and ecological values. This designation provides for many recreational activities including unique backcountry hiking, kayaking, and white water rafting that is unheard of so close to a major urban center.

Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (WA-1) is a co-sponsor of the House legislation and Senate companion legislation was introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray.  The Senate is expected to take up and pass the National Defense Authorization Act next week, including the Alpine Lakes legislation.