An action alert from our friends at Wenatcheeoutdoors.org - 

A bell, unless rung, emits no sound  -- WenatcheeOutdoors Proverb

Two issues where our noise can make a difference. These are quick, easy issues to weigh-in on, and our collective voice will help.

1) On the state level: The state legislature is wrestling with the budget for the next biennium and two different proposals for the State Parks budget are on the table. The House proposal cuts the Parks budget by $40 million and, combined with other measures, could undermine infrastructure to the extent that the system could be set back many years, even if the economy (and the next budget) improves. The Senate proposal cuts Parks’ budget by $28 million but along with other measures (like a $5 ‘opt out’ fee added to license tab renewals), would make a huge difference in the health of our State Parks. Far fewer parks will be closed and the infrastructure of the system will not be torched. More information.

• What you can do: If you think State Parks are an important addition to life in Washington, call/email your state politicians. Tell them you favor the Senate proposal of a $28 million cut to Park’s budget, you support the ‘opt-out’ $5 fee to license tab renewals (this has been helpful in Montana), and that the opt-out fee should be made effective immediately. The fastest way to do this: Call the legislative hotline at 800-562-6000. A person will take your message, your address, and phone number and deliver that message to your representatives, senator, and the governor. The same can be done with one email. Here in the 12^th Legislative District, send that email to Armstrong.Mike@leg.wa.gov, Condotta.Cary@leg.wa.gov, Parlette.Linda@leg.wa.gov

 2) On the local level: An important public meeting (April 23) with the Douglas County Commissioners will impact the future status of Slack Canyon Road. This unpaved road runs through the southern half of Douglas Creek Canyon, has degraded badly, and is now used primarily by ATVs, dirt bikes, and 4-wheel-drive vehicles with very-high clearance. Normal pickups, SUVs, maintenance, and law-enforcement vehicles can’t get into the area and a beautiful area with a wealth of natural, biologic, geologic, and human history is getting damaged by irresponsible use. More information.

• What you can do. Douglas Creek has the potential of being a beautiful and fascinating addition to our natural and recreational resources. Attend the meeting on Thursday April 23, 7 p.m., at the Douglas Co. Lands and Transportation Building (bottom of 19th Street in East Wenatchee). Encourage the commissioners to either 1) improve the road so everyday users and authorities will displace the undesired use or 2) close and gate the road, stop terrain-damaging motorized use, and make this a non-motorized corridor.
• If you can’t attend the meeting, call 509-745-8537 to leave a message. Or send an email to all the commissioners via Commissioner Dale Snyder at: dsnyder@co.douglas.wa.us