REI is a significant supporter of the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Coalition, a nonpartisan coalition of business, conservation, community, farming and outdoor organizations working together in support of funding for the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program (WWRP). The WWRP, which is funded from the state's capital budget, is a vital program for funding that supports parks, trails, shorelines, habitat and farmlands across the state. In 2006 the coalition worked on building support for $100 million in program funding for the 2007/2008 biennium. In addition to being a financial supporter of the coalition, REI also holds a board seat with the organization.

REI supported two conservation and recreation ballot measures in 2006.

In Washington state, REI made a $10,000 contribution and endorsed the "No on I-933" campaign. The initiative, had it passed, would have seriously undermined conservation protections in the state. The initiative was soundly defeated by a strong "No" campaign that enjoyed broad community support from regional companies, business leaders, conservation organizations and others.

REI also provided a $5,000 contribution and endorsement to Measure 26-80 in Portland, which funded a well-planned and significant expansion and enhancement of parks' opportunities in the city. The measure also passed with strong public support.