To the editor:

I am supporting Michael Pollock for parks commissioner because he understands that our Island parks contain a rich and robust natural biodiversity that is deeply valued by our community and which, with insightful, community-supported stewardship, will ensure a lasting legacy. This legacy will benefit not only us, but also the variety of uncounted species that share these lands with us.

With his background in ecology and his work with community-based salmon recovery programs throughout the Pacific Northwest with NOAA, he understands that increasing social and climatic pressures on finite park systems means that we need to identify the critical biological and ecological features of our parks, and develop management plans that protect, enhance and — where necessary — restore resilience to these habitats. For example, mapping the extent of the many acres of invasive species that continue to degrade park lands would help to develop a long-term plan for eliminating them and replacing with native, wildlife-friendly species.

Michael also believes it would be of great benefit for parks to actively work with other taxing jurisdictions, nonprofits and landowners on the Island to more broadly assess our natural resources and develop a shared vision and set of values for how we are going to collectively sustain and restore the biological richness our Island has to offer. He understands that the Island, and the waters surrounding it, form a biologically rich ecosystem and that we should do all we can to understand it and conserve it for future generations.

A vote for Michael is a vote for a sustainable shared future, and he deserves our support.

BECCA HANSON

Bainbridge Island