Dave Upthegrove says budget cuts to wildfire programs are fueling a more dangerous future for western Washington.
HOODSPORT, Wash. — Washington Lands Commissioner Dave Upthegrove toured the Bear Gulch fire on Tuesday, calling the growing wildfire near Lake Cushman “heartbreaking” and warning that residents in western Washington should brace for more fires like it.
“We’re going to have more fires like this, and bigger fires,” Upthegrove said. “That’ll cost taxpayers more and cause more damage.”
The lands chief criticized lawmakers for approving what he described as deep cuts to wildfire prevention and response efforts in the most recent state budget.
“The Legislature
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