July 5, 2012

Public meetings on ‘forest health hazard warning’
Goldendale public hearing added

OLYMPIA – The public is invited to hear information and provide input on the “forest health hazard warning” for portions of Okanogan, Ferry, Klickitat and Yakima counties. Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark intends to issue the hazard warning to focus attention and action to address ongoing forest insect infestations in areas identified by a Technical Advisory Committee.

The hearing will present information on the nature of the at-risk forest conditions and recommended actions. The Commissioner and DNR will consider input from the public.  

Public Meeting in Tonasket

Time & Date: 6 to 8 p.m., Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Location:   Tonasket High School Commons/Cafeteria
35 Highway 20 E., Tonasket

Public Meeting in Republic

Time & Date:     6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, July 19, 2012
Location:   Republic Elementary School Multi-purpose Room
30306 E. Highway 20, Republic

Public Meeting in Goldendale – NEW

Time & Date:     6 to 8 p.m., Monday, July 23, 2012
Location:   Klickitat Public Utility District, Goldendale Office
1313 South Columbus Avenue, Goldendale

A meeting also is being scheduled in Goldendale in the coming weeks.

Forest Health Hazard Order
In response to persistently worsening tree damage in eastern Washington, Commissioner Goldmark initiated the state’s forest health warning system last November, and convened a Technical Advisory Committee in January to present recommendations. The effect of a warning designation is to call attention to an emerging forest health issue and focus actions and resources on addressing it. All actions are voluntary on the part of the affected landowners and land managers. Funding allocated to DNR—under a “Jobs Bill” passed by the state legislature in April—will be directed toward the effort.

Media Contact: Bryan Flint, Communications Director, 360-902-1023, bryan.flint@dnr.wa.gov  

REPOST – Courtesy of DNR