The words “public servant” have been maligned lately, particularly by the highest of public servants himself, the president of the United States, Donald Trump.
For nearly 13 years, Jackie Ferrier guided the Willapa National Wildlife Refuge Complex to esteemed heights. The refuge has swelled to around 30,000 acres, making it the pride of Pacific and Wahkiakum counties, the state, and, to a large degree, one of national significance. This massive landscape is a rich part of our lives, but frequently we take these public lands for granted.
I have driven around Willapa Bay for decades. For the entirety of my adult life, I have explored Leadbetter, the Reikkola Unit, or Long Island. I know the trails. The clamming spots. Where to find a herd of Roosevelt elk. Where to spot a family of otter. Where to find peace from our busy lives.
The leader of our government has eradicated a large swath of these fine public servants. From the Department of Education to NPR and PBS, Donald Trump has sliced the heart out of the government of the people, by the people, for the people.
Jackie Ferrier is one of those unfortunates. She was given an ultimatum: retire with some benefits or be fired outright. Jackie knew her time was up. She could stop working 14-hour days and finally spend time with her husband, Jim. She could sleep in or read a book of fiction. Bittersweet, she chose the only sensible option. She retired. There was no fanfare. She simply handed over the reins to an able assistant, one of the few who are left.
Jackie expanded the refuge. She restored wetlands. Finished eradicating invasive spartina cordgrass. Strengthened salmon runs. Essentially, she made this heartland a better place, a green paradise for future generations. She is a proud woman but humble to the core. And now she is gone with hardly a whisper of protest or adulation.
Well Jackie, I for one am very proud of your accomplishments. You will be missed. You made our lives better, and the lives of our children and theirs after them. You clearly understood the value of forest lands and clean water. You strengthened the environment around us. You understood the concept of legacy. You honored the reputation of those still in public service. We thank you. Go forward with courage.