Kudos to city for buying property

Thank you for writing about land use policy concerning development above south Snohomish County saltwater beaches. (Aug. 14 article, “$7 million to save land.”) I appreciate the efforts of the city of Lynnwood to buy property abutting Lund’s Gulch for the use of future generations of people, fish and animals. Mukilteo should also be commended for plans to save Japanese Gulch from development.

As a frequent hiker/explorer of these areas, as well other smaller gulches and uplands I’ve enjoyed the beauty and solitude of nature, and only minutes from home. I’ve seen the degradation caused by development and the ensuing water runoff/mudslides. The creeks fill in and start to smell polluted.

I agree with the comments of letter writer Joan Smith on mudslides, “Patching’ bluffs ignores real issues,” that we, the residents of this beautiful area, must speak out with presence and pocketbook. Remember, once developed, the forest habitat is gone forever. In the late 1800s, old growth tall stately trees marched right down to saltwater. How cool that would’ve been to see! Most were cut down in the name of progress. I recommend two books on the history of the area; “Picnic Point Pathways” and “Angels To The Rear.” Let’s not keep repeating misguided development policies dictated by those only interested in profits.

Howard Slauson

Lynnwood