San Juan Journal – Senator Maria Cantwell and U.S. Rep. Rick Larsen last week introduced legislation that would turn federal land in the San Juan Islands into a National Conservation Area, aiming to boost protection and accessibility as the number of visitors to the islands increases.
Sen. Patty Murray is a cosponsor of that legislation, which was submitted by Cantwell and Larsen to their respective U.S. Senate and House committees on Sept. 14.
Cantwell said the islands need this bill to protect land that attracts more than 70,000 tourists each year.In late July, Cantwell and Larsen held a “community listening session” in Friday Harbor to gather feedback on the effort to create a National Conservation Area. Nearly 30 people attended that listening session, which included staff of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management and local public officials.
“There is no question, our local economies rely upon a vibrant and beautiful ecological experience,” said Washington state Senator Kevin Ranker, D-Orcas Island. “Not only does this bill promote the preservation of our local natural resources, it meets a pressing need, ensuring that cherished lands remain open and accessible to tourists and families alike. Senator Cantwell and Congressman Larsen are to be congratulated for their vision in introducing this critical legislation.”
As one of the most beautiful states in the union–and one of the richest in natural resources–Washington has a special interest in energy and environmental policy. And Maria has fought hard to uphold the state’s conservation tradition, while also working to bring our energy policy into the 21st century.
Maria knows Washington’s business community – because, as an executive at an innovative software company, she was part of it. And as a Senator, she’s led the way in helping businesses large and small throughout Washington grow, thrive, and create jobs.
Maria has taken a leadership role on safety and security issues, including defending our borders, strengthening our military, cracking down on gangs, and taking on drug crime in Washington communities
Middle-class families around Washington and across the country are facing tough times–and tough decisions about balancing the family checkbook each month. Maria has fought to strengthen the economic security of Washington families and cut taxes for middle-class families.
