“My name is Seann Patrick Cram and I live in rural Vermont. I understand the forest. I know these trees and…”

My name is Seann Patrick Cram and I live in rural Vermont. I understand the forest. I know these trees and rocks and salamanders and fungi, I understand these birds and wild flowers. They require no roads. I urge you to suspend the current proposal to rescind the 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule (i.e., “Roadless Rule”). The Roadless Rule was created with overwhelming public support and has protected forests for more than 25 years. Decisions about these areas should be based on science, not short-term corporate interests. These protected forests provide important habitat for wildlife, protect clean water, and give people opportunities to enjoy and connect with nature. These places should continue to be protected, not fragmented, logged, and mined for private or corporate benefit. I have a deep connection to the forests surrounding the Caribou-Speckled Wilderness, some of the now-threatened Roadless Areas in Maine. These intact ecosystems are special places for people to visit, explore, and learn about nature, provide habitat for several threatened species, and are home to some of New England's last remaining old-growth forests. Mainers cannot afford to lose the habitat and water quality benefits provided by these Roadless Areas. I urge you to protect these places for future generations by suspending the current proposal to rescind the Roadless Rule. Sincerely, Seann Cram 2695 Vershire Center Rd Vershire, VT 05079-9723 seannpatrick84@gmail.com