But saving the planet in today's terms is more than just protecting trees and wilderness; it's about protecting our livelihood and improving our quality of life. Here in Marion County, legislators and other elected officials are showing that this is not only an achievable goal, but it is well worth it to protect our environment so that we can invest in our future.

In 2007, many elected officials in Marion County, particularly at the state level, provided voters with strong evidence that they are catching up with their environmental concerns, tackling tough air and water quality issues and leading the way in alternative energy solutions. There are many reasons for their shift in priorities: we have elected more responsible leadership, the effects of global warming can no longer be denied, traffic congestion and air pollution are on the rise, families can't afford rising health care costs and we can't afford to lose any more of our local farms.  

In 2006, Marion County voters elected Betty Komp and Brian Clem to the Oregon House of Representatives. They both supported several key pieces of legislation that will help clean up Oregon's air and water and protect Oregon's natural beauty (Clem earned an 84 percent and Komp 95 percent in OLCV's 2007 Environmental Scorecard for the Oregon Legislature). In local elections, voters elected Laura Tesler, a strong community leader, to the Salem City Council. Over the past year, Tesler has fought to clean up Salem's air and water and is working to make Salem a more walkable city.

In 2008, it is likely voters will continue to support local leaders willing to pass legislation that protects our quality of life and local economy. Whether it is investments in better, more reliable public transit, support for sustainable local businesses, more neighborhood parks or stronger protections for local farmers, voters will elect leaders who choose to do what is best for our livelihood. This is great news for new candidates and current legislators who would like to do more to keep Oregon's air and water clean, support sustainable businesses and limit traffic and sprawl.  

To learn how more about OLCV's 2007 Environmental Scorecard for the Oregon Legislature visit olcv.org.