Established in 1889, two months before Washington Territories achieved statehood, the Washington State Grange is a non-profit, non-partisan organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of Washington's residents through the spirit of community service and legislative action. The Grange is a fraternal, grassroots nonprofit organization rooted in agriculture and committed to providing the
people of rural Washington a strong and respected voice among our elected officials. Grange members devote countless hours in service to their communities, reaching out to make sure the elderly, young and vulnerable, veterans and those in need are given the attention they deserve. Washington State Grange policy covers a wide range of issues. A revised State Grange policy handbook is published annually, prior to each session of the Legislature. The National Grange policy handbook is published each winter. Among the many State Grange policies are the following views which the organization favors:
* The family farm as the basic unit of agricultural production in America.
*Locally controlled land use planning to ensure the preservation of productive agricultural lands.
*Multiple use concepts in forest management.
*Full legislative funding of basic education as presently defined.
*Publicly controlled utilities such as public utility districts and rural electric cooperatives.
*Protection of private property and water rights.
*Strict enforcement of laws against drunk driving.
*Taxing farmland based on its current use.
*Accessible and affordable health care.
