Commissioner Dave Upthegrove released the following statement after the Board of Natural Resources did not take action to revisit the Thorpe land exchange.

 

"I understand and heard clearly the concerns raised regarding the Thorpe land exchange. I have personally hiked the property with conservation advocates and appreciate the value of the natural features on the landscape. However, the exchange was approved unanimously by the Board of Natural Resources in January prior to me taking office. Regardless of whether or not I would have made a different decision, no member of this board expressed an interest in revisiting the decision, so it was not added to today's agenda. 

 

Since taking office, I have respected past decisions of the Board of Natural Resources and have remained focused on the future. I look forward to approaching future decisions with thoughtful conservation values and a commitment to meaningful public engagement.” 

 

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Michael Kelly 

Communications Director 

Cell: 360-878-4217 

michael.kelly@dnr.wa.gov