The Forest Practices Board’s approval of the Type Np buffer rule is a setback for collaboration and fairness. The decision endorses a flawed process that produced only one option—ignoring the economic consequences for forest landowners and rural communities while offering no clear environmental gain.
For generations, Pacific Northwest policymakers understood a simple idea: working forests deliver public benefits everyone depends on — clean water,
The 2026 Washington state legislative session concluded on Thursday, March 12th after a packed 60-days. Lawmakers approved final budgets, including
The recent closure of a hardwood manufacturing facility in Centralia is a reminder that when Washington loses a mill, the
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Clallam County Revenue Advisory Committee Issues Letter Urging Legislative Oversight of County Forest Trust Lands PORT ANGELES,
In a short legislative session, deadlines come fast. The 2026 Washington state 60-day legislative session is no different. The session
For decades, forest rules in Washington and Oregon have required fixed-width no-harvest buffers along some headwater streams. The assumption is
Nearly 800 individuals and organizations, representing thousands of foresters, farmers, landowners, businesses, civic leaders, elected officials, forestry workers, and citizens
A new University of Washington study has measured the impact of Olympia’s proposal to expand streamside buffers along non-fish-bearing perennial
In a recent episode of the County Connection podcast hosted by Paul Jewell of the Washington State Association of Counties,
The American Forest Resource Council (AFRC) today expressed concerns with Washington Commissioner of Public Lands Dave Upthegrove’s order to immediately
More than 25 years ago, Washington state took a historic step toward balancing environmental stewardship with economic vitality through the
Wood is experiencing a revival in architecture and construction – and it’s not just about aesthetics or nostalgia. Thanks to
More than a dozen different wood products companies throughout the country, including Colville-based Vaagen Timbers, have come together in support
Washington State is one of the best places in the world to grow and harvest trees. The state has the
Journey through a working forest Take a tour through a working forest. Follow the salmon journey through the forest, identify
On June 6, 2025, the Washington Forest Practices Board (FPB) took a consequential vote that will reshape how water is
A “doozy,” “challenging,” “difficult,” and “at times contentious” were among the words Olympia lawmakers, insiders and journalists used to describe
Riparian Buffer Rules and Water Temperature Introduction: The application of science in environmental policy is crucial for ensuring the delicate
At the 125th anniversary celebration of the Society of American Foresters, Cindy Mitchell and Jason Spadaro of the Washington Forest
The 2025 Washington State Legislature adjourned on time on Sunday, April 28th – no small feat given the magnitude of
The Washington State Senate unanimously adopted Senate Resolution 8633, recognizing the profound impact of the state’s forestry sector and tens
It’s easy to presume that all legislative bodies are rife with partisanship. The recent headlines we see focus on high-profile
Washington’s forest practices regulations have evolved since the Forest Practices Act (FPA) was introduced in 1974. The goal of the
Overview of Washington’s Forests Washington’s forests cover nearly half the state, offering a diverse landscape shaped by varying climates, tree
