Saw this interesting article in today's P-I about the race for the state Lands Commissioner. Aside from the WDFW, this is the office that probably has the most say in how our fisheries and lands around the rivers are managed. Have a look.

http://seattlep-i.nwsource.com/local/land07.shtml

B,

Don't kid yourself. DNR, through the lands commisioner has vastly, by orders of magnitude, more effect on habitat management than WDFW. WDFW is the state's fishery management agency, but they are not the state's fish habitat management agency. Many don't know that. Land and water that comprise habitat for our state's fishery resources are managed or regulated by DNR and the Dept. of Ecology. WDFW has an advisory capacity with these agencies, but that is not the same as packin' serious weight. Since the first state Forest Practices Act and Environmental Policy Act, both in 1973 I think, these agencies have routinely blown off the habitat "advice" of WDFW. How the hell do you think our fish habitat became so degraded? It wasn't because WDFW said, yeah, go ahead, the fish won't mind.

Is the land's commissioner important? You bet! Jennifer Belcher has done more to benefit Washington's fish and wildlife every month than all her predecessors did since the lands commission was created. I'm not a fan of Mike Lowry, but I heard Belcher has endorsed him. I'll likely vote for him as I don't want DNR to revert to its "if it casts a shadow, cut it down!" philosophy.

This was supposed to be a simple response; sorry for the rant. I've lived here all my life and seen it happen.

Sincerely,

Salmo g.

I agree Salmo G, We don't have to like the person we are voting for. Lowry is a sharp and experienced political entity, who will get the job done right.
These are times when our vote can make a difference, So do your part and get out and vote.
Thank You.

No need to apologize Salmo. Thanks for the follow up. I've only lived here four years and am still trying to figure out who has a say in what and I missed out on Lowry's shenanigans. Washington's labrynth of state agencies make Chicago city politics look like a small town city council.

Bruce

Mike Lowry is possibly the worst canidate for this office one could ever imagine. He is too extreme on the left and will likely cut sport fishing like you never imagined. I would be very wary of Mr. Lowery's motives for trying to re-enter any political office in this state.