Upthegrove best candidate for public lands

Editor,

One of the most competitive races on the upcoming Aug. 6 primary ballot is for Commissioner of Public Lands. The office heads the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which manages 5.6 million acres of state forest, coastline, farm, range and aquatic habitats for orcas and salmon, plus oversees the work of 2,200 employees.

Out of the seven candidates, Dave Upthegrove, a Democrat, possesses the required experience and resolve to embrace DNR's mission statement to "Manage, sustain and protect the health and productivity of Washington's lands and waters to meet the need of present and future generations."

Upthegrove's strengths include a solid background in environmental conservation and public policy. He served five terms in the Washington Legislature as chairman of the House Environment Committee and currently, he chairs the King County Council while representing the Fifth District of south King County. He has prioritized the need for better transportation, clean air and affordable housing for all residents, especially marginalized communities.

Washington Conservation Action (WCA) and the Sierra Club have endorsed Upthegrove, recognizing his commitment to environmental stewardship and social justice. Upthegrove refuses to take any contributions from the timber industry, unlike the other six challengers for this position. Individual donations account for almost 85 percent of his campaign funds.

For these reasons, he definitely has earned my vote, and I strongly urge everyone to support Dave Upthegrove on Aug. 6 for Commissioner of Public Lands in Washington State.

George Burazer

Lacey