The Conservation Futures Fund has been a blessing to the residents of Island County. This minimal tax (equivalent to the cost of a large pizza) has afforded the opportunity to support, acquire and protect many vital community resources. This is a case of money efficiently applied which multiplies its impacts due to its present and future impacts in a variety of ways.

The economic impact is obvious. Island County is a recreational and inspirational resource to the region and beyond, drawing tourist dollars to our local merchants.

It also has less obvious benefits. I work in health care. The research is making us increasingly conscious of the multiple, significant benefits afforded by outdoor recreation in natural settings. This has huge health implications which affects worker productivity with the potential to ease the burden on our already distressed and certain to be more heavily challenged health care delivery system due to what are avoidable lifestyle choices. Those choices are influenced by opportunities. Beneficial opportunities flow from the Conservation Futures Fund’s impacts.

This fund is a major method of preserving and conserving Island County’s special places and keeps Island County the special place it is. One need only look at the amount of use these areas experience as evidence of their value.

It would be a tragedy to undermine this program. Though it may be appealing to some with limited vision to eliminate it, it would not be in the best interest of the majority of Island County residents.

Let your county commissioners know you support the Conservation Futures Fund at BICC@co.island.wa.us.

Gary Piazzon
Coupeville