“Dear U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz, As a frequent visitor to the Coronado National Forest, I’m writing…”

Dear U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz, As a frequent visitor to the Coronado National Forest, I’m writing to urge you to choose Alternative 1 and keep the 2001 Roadless Rule intact. I frequently hike and camp in the various mountain ranges that are part of Forest, enjoying the peace and solitude they offer. The existing roads already provide more than adequate access. For 25 years, the Roadless rule has safeguarded nearly 45 million acres of backcountry across U.S. national forests. These roadless areas provide numerous benefits to the American public, from clean air and water to vital wildlife habitat and diverse recreation opportunities — all while still allowing responsible forest management. Rescinding or altering this rule puts these lands at risk by opening the door to logging, oil-and-gas drilling, and other development. It will also fragment habitat, introduce invasive species, increase wildfire risk, and bring noise and light pollution. At a minimum, I insist that you extend this comment period to at least 90 days and hold hearings across the U.S. in all areas affected, so the public can fully weigh in. This proposal does not have my support. I urge you to choose no-action and uphold the Roadless Rule. Sincerely, Dirk Van Peenen Tucson, AZ 85716 dvanpeenen@yahoo.com