Dear Editor

It was 68 years ago, in 1945, that I stood on top of Mt. Olympus. At an elevation of 7,979 feet, it is the highest mountain in Olympic National Park and was my first major peak. I was 16 years old at the time and fell in love with the mountains, forests, rivers and beaches of the Olympic Peninsula.

Eighteen years later and 50 years ago, in 1963, I stood on the highest point of Planet Earth, Mt Everest, 29,028 feet above the sea. My adventures started right here in the Pacific Northwest: in the wild Olympics.

Individuals with varied backgrounds have come up with a proposal that enhances access to the “Wild Olympics,” including hunting and fishing, while protecting the ancient forests and snowcapped peaks that feed the salmon-bearing rivers and streams. You may Google the Wild Olympic Bill to get the details.

I am delighted my children and others will be able to experience the wild Olympics as I have, and that this legislation will allow their children and their children's children to enjoy the thrills and mystery of the natural world.

That is why I support the Wild Olympics Bill.

Jim Whittaker

Port Townsend, WA