Kevin Ranker and David Dicks wrote a guest column for the Seattle Times. Here is an excerpt:

As the worst environmental disaster in U.S. history unfolds in the Gulf of Mexico, it’s tempting to rest comfortably on our success avoiding a similar calamity here in Puget Sound.

Our success, so far, is not the result of good luck. The state has vigorously worked to prevent oil spills, providing a rapid-response system, stringent oversight of oil companies, and a tugboat dedicated to rescuing distressed ships before they crash and spill hazardous cargoes.

For the full story, visit www.seattletimes.com