Allen ‘Woodsy’ Thomas, who died in November 2025, was a journalist who worked in Clark County for five decades, with a focus on outdoors coverage and a passion for Southwest Washington
Paul Valencia
Clark County Today
The life and work of journalist Allen “Woodsy” Thomas was recognized by the Clark County Council on Tuesday, a proclamation encouraging residents to spend time “enjoying the wild places and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest in his memory.”
Thomas was a reporter at The Columbian from 1975 until 2017, and he was the outdoors writer from 1978 until he retired. He was simply Woodsy to all who knew him.
Thomas was born in Vancouver in 1952 and lived in Clark County his entire life. Thomas died in late 2025.
The proclamation, dated Jan. 6, 2026, notes that he was known for “his love of the outdoors and natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, credibility, in-depth reporting, care for others, professionalism, passion, and expertise on topics related to natural resources and outdoor recreation;
“Whereas, the Clark County finds it fitting and proper to honor a man who dedicated his life to helping Clark County residents better understand the natural world we inhabit and the policies and management of our resources;
“Now, therefore, we, the Clark County Council, do hereby officially recognize the lifetime contributions of Allen “Woodsy” Thomas.”
The council also noted that it will seek a fitting way to celebrate Thomas’ contributions in perpetuity.
Dave Kern, a former Columbian writer and news editor, said the Allen Thomas Project has become the Woodsy Club. He noted that his group has received more than 20 testimonials from readers, sportsmen, government officials, all praising Woody’s professionalism and commitment.
Clark County Councilor Matt Little said it was an honor to have known Thomas.
“He came to me during my campaign and said we thought alike. I was so honored to be in the same realm as Allen,” Little said.
Little noted that Thomas could tackle thorny subjects.
“He was very balanced and super passionate,” Little said. “I loved that about him.”
Note: Clark County Today Editor Ken Vance and reporter Paul Valencia worked with Woodsy for years. He was a legendary figure in the region, and we appreciate the county for recognizing his contributions.
Also read:
- Camas, Union senior stars ready for playoff push in their final high school basketball seasons
Ethan Harris and Brooklynn Haywood lead Camas and Union into the Class 4A bi-district playoffs with state tournament berths on the line. - Letter: ‘Are we being punked?’
Anna Miller questions the Clark County Council’s authority to pass a resolution on ICE and urges members to focus on core county responsibilities. - U.S. Ed Dept. investigates Puyallup wrestler’s sexual assault allegation by trans athlete
The U.S. Department of Education is investigating the Puyallup School District over its handling of a sexual assault allegation involving wrestler Kallie Keeler. - Letter: ‘People who have entered illegally must face the consequences of their actions’
Vancouver resident Debra Kalz argues the County Council should not pass immigration-related resolutions and says laws must be followed or changed through proper channels. - The Enspire Extravaganza: Advancing art and community engagement for a brighter future
Enspire Arts brings more than 150 local artists to the Joyce Garver Theater in Camas on Feb. 28, featuring student ambassadors and a world premiere by composer Nicole Buetti. - Opinion: IBR’s systematic disinformation campaign, its demise
Neighbors for a Better Crossing challenges IBR’s seismic claims and promotes a reuse-and-tunnel alternative they say would save billions at the I-5 crossing. - Letter: ‘Our forefathers warned us to assemble when government rules over We The People’
La Center resident Kimberlee Goheen Elbon criticizes the County Council’s handling of immigration-related meetings and urges residents to assemble and speak out.
wpDiscuz
