August 24, 2004

Charles Raines
Campaign Coordinator
I-90 Wildlife Bridges Coalition
3414 1/2 Fremont Avenue North
Seattle, Washington 98103

Dear Charlie,

Thank you for the invitation to attend your forum on wildlife connectivity and the I-90 Snoqualmie Pass East project. Although I am unable to attend, I appreciate the Coalition's efforts to bring together the scientific community and the public at this stage.

As you know, I have worked with the members of the Coalition, the Forest Service and others to protect and restore irreplaceable wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities in our Central Cascades forests. Since the landmark I-90 Land Exchange, we have made great progress in acquiring the I-90 Option parcels and other lands in the area. We have also begun to restore habitat, as envisioned in the Northwest Forest Plan, and we will continue to do so.

Unfortunately, I-90 is a formidable barrier to movement of wildlife, leaving them separated and therefore vulnerable - especially, at-risk species. Reducing this impact with well-designed wildlife crossing structures pays benefits to more than wildlife. Motor vehicle users will also benefit from the reduced risk of accident caused by wildlife on the highway.

It goes without saying that I-90 is critically-important for our state. I will continue to work in Congress and with the State of Washington to ensure this project is a safe and efficient highway and that it provides a high level of connectivity for wildlife.

Best wishes for the forum and for your efforts to help identify the best designs and new sources of funding for this project.

Sincerely,