WILD OLYMPICS: Senator Murray and Representative Kilmer Renew Commitment to Protecting Olympic Peninsula Wilderness, Rivers

Wild Olympics photo gallery for media use HERE 

Local elected officials, the Wild Olympics Campaign, outdoor recreation groups, REI, Patagonia unveiled a new “Destination Wild Olympics” map in 2016

Mt. Washington, which would be included in the Wilderness designation in the Wild Olympics legislation.

(WASHINGTON, D.C.)—Today, Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and Representative Derek Kilmer (WA-06) re-introduced the Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act to protect environmentally sensitive parts of the Olympic Peninsula, support outdoor recreation opportunities, and preserve and grow jobs on the Olympic Peninsula.  

“It is critical that we keep fighting to ensure these pristine areas of the Olympic Peninsula are preserved for generations to come,” said Senator Murray. “As someone who enjoys hiking and fishing in Washington state, I am thrilled to work with Congressman Kilmer and the local community to keep up the momentum and preserve some of Washington state’s most prized wild spaces.”

“As someone who grew up in Port Angeles, I’ve always said that we don’t have to choose between economic growth and environmental protection,” said Representative Kilmer. “I’m proud to continue fighting for a bill that is part of a practical, balanced strategy to protect our natural beauty while attracting businesses to stay, grow, and invest in our future. I’m grateful for the partnership of Senator Murray and folks throughout our region who helped develop this proposal.”

The Wild Olympics Wilderness and Wild and Scenic Rivers Act would designate 126,554 acres of existing federal land as wilderness in the Olympic National Forest and designate 464 river miles across 19 rivers and major tributaries on the Olympic Peninsula as Wild and Scenic Rivers. The wilderness designation permanently protects old growth and ancient forest habitat throughout the region. The Wild and Scenic Rivers designation would add federal recognition to the outstanding river systems on the Peninsula, protecting them as a source of clean drinking water and helping to keep Puget Sound clean for generations to come. This designation does not restrict private property rights.

Senator Murray and Representative Kilmer have spent a significant amount of time engaging with community members and local business leaders on the Olympic Peninsula to ensure this legislation works for the community.

###