Hastings named top Republican on resources committee

By LES BLUMENTHAL
McClatchy Newspapers

WASHINGTON -- Washington Rep. Doc Hastings on Thursday was named the top Republican on the House Natural Resources Committee, a panel that has jurisdiction over everything from endangered species to federal irrigation projects, from the Bonneville Power Administration to the nation's parks and forests.

The Republican Steering Committee selected Hastings, who served on the committee during his first term in Congress but was required to take a leave of absence when he was appointed to the House Rules Committee. Even so, Hastings' seniority on the Natural Resources Committee continued to accrue.

Hastings ranked fourth in seniority on the resources committee.

"This post offers an opportunity to make a real difference for families and communities across the West and throughout rural America," Hastings said in a statement. "As ranking member, I will work to strike a responsible balance between protecting our nation's many natural treasures and spurring economic recovery through wise use of energy, water, minerals and timber resources."

The position became vacant when Alaska Rep. Don Young stepped aside Wednesday under pressure from Republican leadership.

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