Letter to the editor teaser

To live in Northeast Oregon is to love our region’s bountiful outdoors. Senate District 29 is home to abundant agriculture, forestry, energy, and recreation that powers local economies.

If our communities are to thrive, we need elected officials who understand and appreciate what it takes to manage these natural resources — creating local jobs, feeding the world, and preserving our heritage for future generations. That is why we are supporting Dave Drotzmann for state senator.

Agriculture is a critical industry not just for Eastern Oregon, but our state as a whole, accounting for more than $5 billion in annual production. Meanwhile, logging on state forests provided another $97 million for county and state governments in 2022. With his small business background, Dave will advocate for policies and investments to keep farmers farming, ranchers ranching, and loggers logging, giving rural voices a much-needed seat at the table.

At the same time, Dave is an avid hunter who believes in maintaining our state’s natural splendor and all the recreational opportunities that come along with it. Dave understands that economic prosperity and environmental stewardship are not mutually exclusive. We can achieve both, without sacrificing one at the expense of the other.

Dave has made his home in this area for over 25 years, and he will fight every day to protect and preserve our way of life. Vote for Dave on May 21.

Tyler, Kenzie, and Lucas Hansell

Hermiston