From the Detroit Sunday Jounal, December 10, 1995. Used with permission.

Long before he was the President of the National Rifle Association, Thomas Washington was head of the Michigan United Conservation Clubs and a major force in state conservation circles.

Mr. Washington, who died too young last week, at the age of fifty-eight, was a principal architect of two landmark environmental measures: Michigan's bottle bill and the Natural Resources Trust Fund, which funnels gas and oil royalties into the purchase of new recreational lands or outstanding natural areas. By charter, MUCC is an organization for hunters and fishermen, but Mr. Washington had the good sense to make it a powerful voice in Lansing and also statewide for broad, bold environmental initiatives that benefitted all of Michigan's citizens.

Under Mr. Washington, MUCC's interests and influence went far beyond setting the dates of hunting seasons or the preservation of habitat for game species. He expanded its interest to encompass Great Lakes water quality, toxic waste cleanups, land use, sewer and storm water management, energy conservation, highway planning, and the preservation of a rainbow of nongame species. Some of us disagreed with his opposition to gun control, but all of us share gratefully in his remarkable legacy: a love of Michigan's natural beauty and resources, a passionate commitment to their wise use and protection, and a deep sense of respect for its wild creatures and places.

Michigan is a cleaner, healthier, and more beautiful place for his efforts, and if the rest of us act on our ideals with the energy and foresight displayed by Mr. Washington, it can remain that way for generations. His staff and family will miss him sorely, and so will we. Future generations of Michiganders will remember him and be grateful.

RWOL