Wild landscapes provide for learning

It was refreshing to read the recent editorial on the local bipartisanship support of legislation to designate new wilderness and river protection near the Alpine Lakes [“Expand Alpine Lakes, wilderness for all,” Opinion, Jan. 30].

As a middle-school science teacher, I utilize wild forests and river ecosystems as a backdrop and living examples to teach my students. I have been to places like Wild Sky and Alpine Lakes Wilderness Areas often as a hiker and teacher. It is comforting to know that Sen. Patty Murray’s and Congressman Dave Reichert’s legislation will ensure that the next generation of students will be afforded the same opportunity as my current students to experience the beauty of nature in “protected” wild landscapes.

I was also delighted to see that this bill was one of the first actions from my new Congresswoman, Suzan DelBene. I am proud to be represented by leaders who value wild places. She looks to be off to a great start.

Meg Town, Duvall