Welcome to Synthesis — a 2-minute read to give you the quick hits of our recent work, to amplify our partners' projects, and to share important environmental stories. 

Washington Conservation Action wishes you happy holiday and a happy new year! Together in 2023, we achieved bold wins and historic milestones for people and the environment in Washington. We thank you for your unwavering support and we look forward to even bigger wins in 2024!

Christine Rolfes is Washington Conservation Action’s 2023 Legislator of the Year! Former Senator Rolfes remains one of the most passionate and dedicated environmental leaders in the Washington. Read about why Rolfes deserved this honor!

The 2023 winter issue of Convene is here! Our latest issue features stories about collaboration in nature, an interview with our endorsed governor candidate Bob Ferguson, and a deep dive into our partnership work. Read the issue online here, and make sure you’re on the list to receive future physical copies by donating $25 or more.

More than 20 years ago, Washington Conservation Action organized the Environmental Priorities Coalition (EPC), which brings together 27 statewide environmental organizations to safeguard our environment and the health of our communities through policy and budget advocacy at the Washington State Legislature. This year, the EPC will focus on reducing plastic pollution, electrification of buses, and price gouging by big oil companies. Sign up to join us!

For four days in December, Washington Conservation Action’s activist community gathered for Environmental Advocacy Days to gear up for the 2024 Legislative Session. Our friends engaged in webinars about how to effectively lobby and the basics of policymaking in the state. Catch up and watch the advocacy days webinar in preparation for the legislative session!

We’re steps closer toward breaching salmon-killing dams! On December 14, 2023, the Biden Administration announced a package of actions and commitments to recover Columbia and Snake River Salmon as part of an agreement in ongoing litigation. This progress is significant, but not the end. Keep the pressure up by urging your lawmakers to pledge their support for salmon recovery!

In a recent announcement, DNR commits to conserve 2,000 acres of forestlands for the people of Washington. This effort was funded by the Climate Commitment Act to protect mature, structurally complex forests for their value in fighting climate change. This is a huge win for people and the forests. Thank the environmental champion who helped make this happen!

Worker justice is climate justice. On December 14, 2023, Washington’s Department of Labor and Industries officially adopted permanent rules in protection of workers who work outdoors and are regularly exposed to heat and smoke conditions during intensifying wildfire season. Washington Conservation Action’s wildfire resilience workshop with the Latino Community Fund this past summer were part of the many intentional community collaborations that helped achieve this milestone! 

The historic Climate Commitment Act that Washington Conservation Action helped pass forges a path towards a just and climate-resilient future. Unfortunately, right-wing, greedy powers are working hard to undo the state’s climate law so polluters can keep profiting at the expense of our health and environment. Check out this op-ed co-authored by WCA’s CEO, Alyssa Macy on why the state should uphold the Climate Commitment Act!

Thank you Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal! On December 14, 2023, Joy from WCA’s political team engaged in an online conversation with Representative Jayapal on our newest social media, Threads. Joy and the Congresswoman discussed a wide array of topics from favorite nature spots to the impact of the Inflation Reduction Act. The event was a success, and was the first of many. We'll have more digital Q+A events in 2024!

UPCOMING EVENTS

The 2024 legislative session is around the corner. Please join your fellow activists, members and donors on January 11th, 2024 at 3pm for an overview via Zoom of what to expect in this short election-year session. We'll cover our EPC priorities, the work ahead, and the challenges we face. Don't miss it! RSVP here to receive the Zoom link.

Save the date: Spark, Powering Transformative Change happening on May 9, 2024 at the Museum of History and Industry. Join Washington Conservation Action and community in reflecting on our recent wins and achievements as well as supporting our work towards a more just future in Washington! Registration coming soon!

Rico finds peace within nature.

“Whether it's strolling through the woods with my pup Piper or experiencing the changing seasons, I see myself as a part of the natural world, and this connection drives my passion for environmental conservation.”

At work, Rico holds the important responsibility of contributing recommendations to the Forest Practice Board for private forest land regulation. He finds the diversity of tasks the most appealing about his role. From learning about landslide mechanisms to crafting rule-making language to developing conservation strategies and more. 

“The impact of our work, influencing regulations for over 9 million acres of private forest land, is truly rewarding.”