Raúl Grijalva: “H.R. 886, introduced by the gentleman from Washington State, Representative Rick Larsen, would designate a 106,000-acre…”

“H.R. 886, introduced by the gentleman from Washington State, Representative Rick Larsen, would designate a 106,000-acre wilderness on national forest lands in the State of Washington. The proposed wilderness, to be known as the Wild Sky Wilderness, has probably been more studied and reviewed than any recent wilderness considered by the Natural Resources Committee. This is not a new matter. Nearly identical legislation was approved by the committee in the 107th Congress. This message was subject to a hearing in 2004, at which time the administration testified they do not object to its passage. Further, similar legislation has passed the Senate in each of the last three Congresses. The proposed wilderness includes significant low-level elevation wilderness that is home to important fish and wildlife populations. This new wilderness would link with previously designated wilderness in the national forest and would be within a few hours' distance from half of the population of Washington State. The Wild Sky Wilderness has significant State and local support in Washington. State officials, local elected officials, businesses, and church groups have all gone on record supporting the wilderness designation. Mr. Speaker, the time has come to designate this wilderness. I would like to commend my colleague, Representative Larsen, and other Members of the Washington delegation for their perseverance in seeking a wilderness designation for this magnificent area.”