WWRC Newsletter - Feb. 2008

Real Estate Downturn Impacts WWRP Funding Source

The state revenue forecast released in mid-February was down $423 million, which is a larger reduction in future revenues than most expected.  The state's case load of services is also projected to increase by $75 million due to more students, the unemployed and growing prison populations. 

Both numbers affect the amount of money available in the state's capital construction budget, the funding source for the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP).

The $100 million in the WWRP's current two-year budget is secure because the state won't cut projects that are underway.  However, the forecast indicates that, unless the housing market picks up, the Coalition can expect tougher battles in the 2009-2011 budget.

The State Seeks Farm, Parks and Wildlife Habitat Experts to Volunteer on Committee

The Recreation and Conservation Funding Board which oversees the WWRP grant process relies on volunteers to serve on committees that evaluate and score WWRP grant proposals.

If you have expertise in farming, land conservation, wildlife habitat or recreation, you could serve on a committee and help preserve and protect our state's valuable farmlands, parks and natural habitat.

For more information, visit the RCO website. To apply for committee membership, contact Lorinda Anderson at 360-902-3009.

Apply for WWRP Grants Today

The State of Washington is accepting grant applications to build parks, protect farms and wildlife habitat and provide a host outdoor activities. The grant deadline is May 1.

Cities, counties, tribes, lead entities for salmon recovery and special districts like ports, parks and schools are eligible to apply.

Contact the State Recreation and Conservation Office at 360.902.3000, or visit www.rco.wa.gov.

Woodard Bay Habitat Expansion Completed this Month

The recent expansion of the Woodard Bay Natural Resource Conservation Area preserves an additional 90 acres of habitat for nesting bald eagles, herons and the largest harbor seal nursery in Puget Sound.

Funded by the legislature in 2007 with a WWRP grant of $2.3 million, the area will be permanently protected from nearby development so that families can enjoy nature walks and learn about wildlife. 

Prime Farmland Preserved in the Methow Valley

The first farmland project to be funded by the WWRP Farmland Preservation category has been completed in Okanogan County.

The Methow Conservancy and Okanogan County worked together to preserve the 110 acres of rich cropland in the Winthrop-to-Twisp farmland corridor.

The land has been farmed for over 100 years and is now permanently protected from subdivision and development. Read more.

Save the Date! WA Wildlife and Recreation Coalition Breakfast

The 2nd Annual Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition will be held on Tuesday, September 16th, 2008, at the Seattle Sheraton (1400 6th Avenue). Thank you to our Title Sponsor, REI, and Video Sponsor, Washington REALTORS.

Last year's event was a huge success! The Coalition hosted 300 guests and raised $100,000 to go toward protecting parks, wildlife habitat and working farms. We'll have much to celebrate this year as well, so save the date and join us this fall.

To be a sponsor or a table captain, contact Jill Wasberg. Visit our website for more details on the breakfast.

Founding Co-chairs Governor Mike Lowry and Governor Dan Evans at the 2007 Breakfast