I'm still undecided on this deal. I am trying to learn more about it so I can pick a side of the fence. There's no question that it stands to further damage what is already a badly suffering economy on the O.P., and as a resident of Grays Harbor County, I don't feel good about that. On the other hand, there does seem (on the surface) to be an opportunity to secure vital habitat for fish and the wildlife that depend on them, which the conservationist in me likes a good deal.

As for the sportsman in me, for the time being, he would like to see some proposals for ways in which this WOULD increase fishing and hunting access. If the area is to be labeled "wild and scenic," I doubt there will be plans to improve roads or provide new ones, and boat launches and the like also would seem like a bit of a contradiction. Also, there have been similar campaigns sold to a willing public in the recent past that have resulted in a net loss of opportunity for sportsmen. I don't have any real reason to believe that is what will happen here, but I think a bit of suspicion is prudent in the early going.

If I can be convinced that there are ways to improve our opportunities, money available for any projects, and something less than a major hit to local economies in the plan, perhaps I will jump on board. What we have so far is a broad concept that sounds great to a bunch of sportsmen concerned about protecting and enhancing the resources that support their favorite pastimes. Until we have an opportunity to dig into the details and sniff out any devils, we should be very careful about openly supporting this, in my opinion.