The EPA has formally put Washington State on notice in the King Ranch case - and this story just went federal.

In a rare written letter, EPA Region 10 expressed "grave concerns" over how Washington agencies have enforced environmental rules against cattle ranchers, specifically citing actions taken against the King family. That letter was then forwarded by senior leadership at the U.S. Department of Agriculture to the Kings' legal counsel - a signal that this case is no longer a quiet state enforcement matter.

New reporting also reveals that years after penalties were issued and leases were terminated, Washington officials were still seeking access to inspect the very ponds at the center of the case - raising serious questions about due process, jurisdiction, and enforcement practices.

We are currently reviewing additional documentation related to how agricultural enforcement targets are identified in Washington State. That review is ongoing, and materials will be released when appropriate.

This case is no longer just about a pond - it's about how power is exercised, when enforcement goes too far, and who steps in when it does.