September is Wilderness Month
This month, we renew our pledge to build upon the legacy of our forebears. Together, we must ensure that future generations can experience the tranquility and grandeur of America's natural places. As we resolve to meet this responsibility, let us also reflect on the ways in which our lives have been enriched by the gift of the American wilderness. ~Presidential Proclamation
Less than 1% of protected wilderness in WA is found in the beautiful and quiet northeastern corner of the state. Photo: Leif Jakobsen
President Obama has proclaimed September as National Wilderness Month. We couldn't be happier to have the importance of ensuring our nation's wild heritage singled out for recognition, especially as we work so hard to bring the vital protections of wilderness to Washington as part of the balanced Columbia Highlands Initiative.
This month, we renew our pledge to build upon the legacy of our forebears. Together, we must ensure that future generations can experience the tranquility and grandeur of America's natural places. As we resolve to meet this responsibility, let us also reflect on the ways in which our lives have been enriched by the gift of the American wilderness.
~Presidential Proclamation
Wild, biologically intact wilderness places connect us to our past and an American frontier that helped to shape our values of freedom, self-reliance, and perseverance. As our region’s population increases and becomes more urbanized, as more former farm and timber lands are developed, our remaining backcountry lands become even more valuable as remnants of our once-vast wilderness heritage and wildlife habitat.
Over 100 years ago, much of northeast Washington was wild. Right now, less than 1% of Washington's wilderness legacy is found in northeast Washington.
Our remaining roadless areas are the only potential wilderness we have left. We hope you will join us during this auspicious month to support the Columbia Highlands Initiative, our balanced collaborative plan for wilderness, recreation access, and forest management on the Colville National Forest. A quick letter to Washington legislators can make all the difference in bringing wilderness to northeast Washington.
