I recently fulfilled a lifelong dream of moving to the Pacific Northwest from Southern California. Being a very conscientious person, I researched carefully and found Whidbey Island to be the best place for me. I compared rainfall, cost of living, and crime rates and found a perfect home in Coupeville. I never thought to explore the hunting regulations.

Recently with my new State Park annual pass, I went for a walk in the Kettles. Imagine my horror at the sound of gunfire. I moved from Southern California to get away from such things. I am not an expert in guns but do know that they are designed to kill things and that often the thing you aim at is not what you hit.

I believe that nature trails can be for everyone. I think that cyclists, horseback riders and hikers can share the same trails if they are respectful of each other’s needs. I do not believe that someone carrying a gun and looking for something to shoot at can or should share those same trails.

In reading your recent article about Sen. Mary Margaret Haugen and her bills to prohibit hunting near homes and schools, I was appalled to find that county ordinances were not already in place. Must we have a tragedy before reasonable safety precautions are taken?

Carole Dawes

Coupeville