When I ask other ranchers if they've heard of what's going on with the King Ranch in Washington state they tell me 2 things almost every time:
1. No. Haven't heard about is.
2. Well, that's in Washington so it doesn't affect me here in Idaho (or pick some other state)
The King Ranch case challenges the way of life for all ranchers everywhere in the following ways:
Wetlands: The DOE (Department of Ecology) is not using sound science to determine wetlands, placing the burden on landowners to prove an area is not a wetland. The case shows that man-made stock ponds can be considered wetlands by the DOE.
Stockwater: Although RCW 90.44.050 allows the digging of permit-exempt stock ponds, the DOE and the DNR (Department of Natural Resources) has stated that digging without a permit is not acceptable.
DNR Leases: The DNR claims it can declare a lease in default and seize any improvements made by the lessee, such as fences and solar panels. This means DNR can remove lessees if DOE alleges water pollution, without offering due process.
Government Overreach: The DOE has been investigating alleged activities on King Ranch since 2021 without notifying the owners or having jurisdiction. They contacted officials and agencies before notifying the Kings, attempting to pressure them without evidence or due process. The DOE is also targeting stock ponds on the Kings' private property, insisting permits are required for any digging.
Criminal Investigation: While the civil investigation was ongoing, the AG's office started a parallel criminal investigation using the Special Inquiry Judge Act. This allows the state to keep evidence secret and issue subpoenas for anyone believed to have relevant information, including ranch employees. This statute can be misused to secretly investigate alleged environmental crimes.
Cultural Resources: The DNR falsely accused the Kings of violating "cultural resource" laws, despite the fact that cattle have been on the property for over 120 years, with 68 years under the King family. The DNR did not identify any new sites or notify the Kings of any necessary changes to their operations.
Ranchers (and farmers) who sleep on this and think it won't affect them are doing themselves and each other a disservice. It's just a matter of time before it does affect them.
