The somewhat conservative Mat-Su Valley is to be commended for the progressive action related to plastic bags that were being pumped into our environment. I have never been a "tree hugger" or a proponent of the many emotional causes that are prevalent in recent years. However, the plastic litter and bags that show up during spring breakup has caused me concern for many years.
The recent political action to outlaw plastic bags in our grocery stores was welcomed by almost every elected official, mayor and city administrator. In the community, I detected 100 percent approval of the action by our elected officials.
The plastic junk on our lands and waters has gotten to a critical point. Dead whales washing upon our beaches with intestines full of plastic bags should alert everyone and not tolerated. There are accounts of our caribou and reindeer with plastic in their stomachs.
So, citizens of the Mat-Su, congratulations for your actions regarding plastic bags. Perhaps the elected officials in our neighboring big city will see the need, follow our lead and enact the necessary legislation to ban the use of plastic bags.
— Darroll Hargraves
Wasilla
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