John,

Washington Conservation Action’s role and depth in evaluating the management of our state’s natural resources is unique in Washington. We carry this responsibility with great care because our future depends on it.

In November 2024, voters will elect a new Commissioner of Public Lands (CPL). We see this important moment as an opportunity to turn the page on the current administration and push for bolder change that the agency needs.

That’s why I’m excited to share with you our annual State of our Forests and Public Lands report to understand how our Commissioner of Public Lands did this year.

Read the report!

The findings are similar to those of previous years, the report outlines the urgent need for a change in direction. It also outlines opportunities for the next CPL, who Washingtonians will elect in November.

While there has been continued progress in key focus areas, like wildfire and aquatics, DNR leadership has not seized new opportunities or taken the initiative to enhance public values from our state’s forests. The next CPL will have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to develop new solutions. They'll enter the office with a clear mandate and grassroots demand to manage our state's resources on behalf of all the people of Washington, rather than solely for timber revenue.

>> Read the report to see the progress made and the opportunities for progress ahead for the next Commissioner of Public Lands <<

Yours in service,

Rachel Baker (she/her)
Forest Program Director, Washington Conservation Action

Washington Environmental Council and Washington Conservation Voters are now unified under one brand, Washington Conservation Action.