$80 million. That is a significant investment in WWRP projects around Washington State. The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program lives in the Capital budget—which has yet to be approved by our lawmakers in Olympia. As 2017 comes to a close, the likelihood of getting a Capital Budget signed and in place before the New Year is slim. Our annual Legislative Day is January 25, 2018. What does this all mean?
It means that our lawmakers—now more than ever—need to hear our collective voice. It means we have to mobilize our Coalition’s supporters, members, partners, and sponsors—from every corner of the state. Hunters, environmentalists, paddlers, State Park lovers, birders, hikers, mountaineers, farmers, horseback riders—anyone who appreciates and wants to preserve and protect natural outdoor spaces in the state of Washington. It means the program is under threat and if the Capital budget does not pass, it means that projects around our state will be stalled, suspended, or canceled. It means that this budget cycle, there will be no WWRP.
Legislative Day 2018 is an opportunity to join the Coalition and advocate for the outdoor places you love. It is your chance to come to Olympia and meet with law makers in pre-scheduled meetings that the Coalition staff set up. It is your chance to attend a reception at the Governor’s Mansion that evening and spend time networking with other like-minded advocates. It means, that you are able to come and tell your legislator your story about projects in your district that mean something to you.
Join us and advocate for our public lands and waterways. Communicate to our elected officials (regardless of party affiliation) about why the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program needs to be funded at the $80 million level. The die is cast. Come use your voice and protect the natural places you love.
Interested in becoming a Legislative Day event sponsor? Email Rob or call (206) 748-0082 for more information.