Maycumber’s Legislation Addressing Wildfires Clears House

On Tuesday, lawmakers in the Washington House of Representatives approved a bill supporters say will reduce high fuel loads in the forests which have contributed to major wildfires across the Evergreen State.  The 2015 wildfire season was the largest in Washington’s history burning more than one-million acres, destroying more than 150 homes, cabins and outbuildings in Okanogan County, and killing three firefighters.  State Representative, Jacquelin Maycumber, said it’s unacceptable to wait for an environmental impact statement to reduce dry, dead firewood and brush while the state’s forests burn.  Her legislation would allow the Department of Fish and Wildlife to use best available land management practices to address high fuel loads in forests susceptible to wildfires.

“And the reason we need this is because we have been plagued with millions of acres of fires. And when fires burn at that catastrophic level, what we have is, we have generations without habitat on these acres. And particularly in my district, we have what is called a ‘moonscape’ where no natural habitat will grow for my children’s lifetime.”

The Republic Republicans says it’s important the state become proactive in protecting state lands.  Her legislation cleared the House unanimously.  It now goes to the Senate for consideration.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com