This past Monday, July 28, the Outdoor Recreation Caucus hosted a warm and inspiring Summer Advocacy Event at Senator Ron Muzzall’s beautiful family farm on Whidbey Island. Against a backdrop of sweeping views and sunny skies, lawmakers, nonprofit leaders, and advocates from across the state came together in celebration of Washington’s great outdoors and the people who protect it.
We were honored to be joined by a fantastic group of legislators who continue to champion outdoor recreation and conservation in Olympia. Huge thanks to Senator Ron Muzzall, Representative Andrew Barkis, Representative Carolyn Eslick, Representative Alicia Rule, Representative Janice Zahn, Representative Kevin Waters, and Representative Dave Paul for attending and for their ongoing support of our great outdoors. Their backing of $120 million for the WWRP during the 2025 legislative session is a vital investment in Washington’s trails, parks, wildlife habitat, and working lands.
The event brought people together from all sides of the political aisle through our shared love for Washington’s natural landscapes. Over burgers, hot dogs, and classic summer sides, attendees had a chance to connect, share stories, and participate in a lively “speed dating” round of networking to spark new partnerships in the recreation and conservation space.
We’re also deeply grateful to our partners at the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) and to the event contributors – The Nature Conservancy, Trust for Public Land, REI, and the Washington Trails Association – for helping make this event possible. Your work and collaboration are what keep Washington’s outdoor legacy strong.
And of course, a heartfelt thank you to Senator Muzzall and his family for opening their farm to us and providing the perfect setting for a day of community, connection, and commitment to the outdoors!
