These views do not serve Washington or America

Doc Hastings’ bill to suspend government grants to environmental groups ignores the catastrophic environmental consequences of unbridled 20th century dam construction [“Congressional hearing in Pasco on saving dams,” seattletimes.com, Aug. 15].

For example, Columbia River fish runs are about 1 percent of historic levels and many native runs are extinct or endangered. American Rivers is one of many organizations dedicated to preserving our remaining free-flowing rivers and deserves the support of all Americans. Hastings is also a climate-change denier; these views do not serve the long-term interests of our state or the country.

— Thomas G. Rudd, Seattle