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Candidates weigh carbon projects, clean energy trusts and alternative uses of DNR land
Summary
Forum discussion included a DNR carbon-sequestration pilot in litigation, proposals for leasing lands for clean energy, limited urban housing on state parcels, and the need for tribal consultation and careful siting.
The candidates discussed non‑timber uses of DNR land, including a carbon‑sequestration pilot, housing, and clean energy development.
Moderator noted a proposed carbon‑sequestration pilot covering about 10,000 acres that is currently in litigation. Jamie Herrera Butler declined to comment on the litigation but said she is "very open to new and innovative strategies" to reduce carbon and cited a candidate-stated estimate that a managed DNR acre can sequester about 11.7 metric tons of carbon (candidate's stated figure). Dave Updegrove described the pilot as a potential administrative revenue source worth exploring even if current returns are modest.
On alternative land uses, Updegrove proposed pursuing housing on a limited number of parcels in urban growth areas and establishing a "clean energy trust" to acquire and lease appropriate sites to developers while returning revenue to rural communities. Both candidates emphasized infrastructure constraints, tribal consultation, and protecting agricultural and treaty rights.
Both candidates said aquatic lands and aquaculture programs warrant more attention; they flagged invasive species, eelgrass restoration and derelict pilings as priorities for coordination with Fish and Wildlife and local tribes and growers.
The forum left open the legal and administrative questions around the carbon pilot — it is in litigation — and did not record any formal commitments to adopt pilots or leases; both candidates urged administrative frameworks that include monitoring and tribal consultation.
