Everett Herald: Over the past decade, Snohomish resident Doug Ewing, with the help of other local environmental advocates, has filled about 76 pickup truck beds with trash from the Snohomish River.
Tires contain the chemical 6PPD-quinone — a combination of the preservative that helps tires last longer and ozone from the atmosphere- … a chemical found in the Snohomish River that kills coho salmon.
Last year alone, Ewing helped remove over 20 tires from the Snohomish River.
Summary:
A new initiative in Everett aims to grant the Snohomish River watershed legal rights, allowing the community to hold polluters accountable. The campaign, driven by local environmental advocates, has gained significant momentum and seeks to protect the river’s health and ecosystem. If the initiative passes, it would empower citizens to take legal action against those who harm the watershed, setting a precedent for environmental protection in the region.
This watershed initiative [now known as Everett Initiative 24-03], is designed to safeguard the natural flow, maintain water quality, and support native plants and wildlife. The measure aims to prevent further degradation of the watershed by enabling legal recourse without introducing new regulations. The campaign emphasizes the importance of the watershed to the community’s economy, environment, and overall quality of life.
With recent federal environmental protections being weakened, this local initiative comes at a crucial time. By granting legal rights to the Snohomish River, Everett residents have a unique opportunity to ensure sustainable development and environmental justice for future generations. The success of this campaign could inspire similar efforts across the nation, promoting a healthier and more resilient environment.
Note: the Herald article says, “Under the ordinance, the city would hold violators liable for any damages to the river and require them to pay for restoration work.” However, under the ordinance in Everett 24-03, any resident, organization, business, or government entity located within the city of Everett would be able to hold violators liable.
Read full article at If Snohomish River campaign passes, polluters could be held accountable, by Ta’Leah Van Sistine, Everett Herald, July 22, 2024.
Update: The “Standing for the Snoho” initiative got enough signatures and is on the November 5, 2024 ballot in Everett, WA as Everett Initiative 24-03, recognizing legally enforceable rights for the Snohomish River Watershed. Read more about the initiative and vote YES on Everett 24-03 by November 5!