“I am strongly opposed to the proposed changes to the Roadless Rule, and I do not support moving forward with…”

I am strongly opposed to the proposed changes to the Roadless Rule, and I do not support moving forward with this rule. Our roadless forests are some of the most valuable and irreplaceable public lands we have. They provide critical wildlife habitat, protect watersheds and clean drinking water, support recreation, and preserve the natural character of our forests for future generations. Opening these areas to increased road construction, logging, and development could cause lasting damage to ecosystems that have taken generations to develop. Once intact forestland is fragmented by roads and development, it is extremely difficult to restore it to its original condition. Roads can also increase erosion, disrupt wildlife habitat, spread invasive species, and negatively affect water quality. I believe our public forests should be managed with long-term conservation and responsible stewardship in mind, rather than prioritizing short-term development or resource extraction. The Roadless Rule provides an important safeguard for some of our nation's remaining wild and undeveloped forests. I urge decision-makers to reject this proposal and maintain strong protections for roadless areas. These forests belong to all of us, and we have a responsibility to protect them for future generations.