Position Statement: Private Property Rights

The Washington State Hay Growers Association recognizes that all resources of this land are of great importance to mankind, both present and future generations. We believe that agriculture should be given equal opportunity to participate in formulating any plans along with the Department of Ecology, Department of Fish and Wildlife, and non-consumptive users. Participation should be from early stages of development of such plans and should continue as long as the plan exists. We support the position that operators of agricultural lands be given freedom in emergency situations to protect the involved lands from erosion and/or destruction from excessive water flows or current charges.

We believe that agricultural production on private farm land has priority over recreational pursuits and these should be protected by appropriate governmental departments and agencies. We support legislation to help maintain the right to hold and manage private lands.

We are opposed to any further conversion of public lands or taking of private property by executive order without Congressional and local approval, or by federally funded programs such as provided for in the American Heritage Trust or the Wild and Scenic River Acts.

Approved by the WSHGA Membership
January 24, 2001

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Washington State Hay Growers Association
100 North Fruitland, Suite B, Kennewick, WA   99336
(509) 585-5460     FAX: (509) 585-2671
info@wa-hay.org