“I oppose the proposed repeal of the Roadless Area Conservation Rule. I urge you to maintain the existing Rule…”

I oppose the proposed repeal of the Roadless Area Conservation Rule. I urge you to maintain the existing Rule as is. The Roadless Rule protects the watersheds of many of our National Wild and Scenic Rivers in California, as well as many rivers and streams deemed eligible for national protection by the Forest Service. The roadless areas through which these wild rivers flow are an important refuge for threatened and endangered fish, wildlife, and plants. They provide outstanding opportunities for outdoor recreation in a primitive setting, such as hiking, backpacking, whitewater boating, mountain biking, and even motorized recreation on existing legal trails. Roadless areas provide clean water for wildlife and recreation and the rivers that flow from the roadless areas into reservoirs are an important source of high-quality water for downstream communities and farms. Many rivers to consider include but are not limited to the North Fork American, Tuolumne, South Fork Kings, Middle Fork Feather, and North Fork Kern. The Roadless Rule does not limit public access. Most roadless areas are legally available for public recreation under the Rule – they are simply closed to new road building, commercial logging, and other development that requires new roads. It is not true that roadless areas increase wildfire threats. Roads – not roadless areas – are a primary source of wildfire starts. I urge that Roadless Rule be retained to protect our wild places for recreation, fish and wildlife habitat, and as important sources of clean water for our communities and farms. The roadless areas are the last places where the earth still retains her beauty as she was given to us. These are the most sared spots and are the true cathedrals where one can worship the creator in purity. Only those who live in such spaces or come to visit them with respect truly see the wonder of what we have been given. They are the true people of the earth. Please leave the spaces for them and the four footed ones who also live there. It all is far more valuable than money or precious metals. Sincerely, Sincerely, Roberta Hudlow Nerinx, KY 40049