Last month I spent time driving and hiking in both the Umatilla National Forest and the Wallowa‑Whitman National Forest. Being surrounded by the vastness of these shared public lands was deeply invigorating. That time in the forest reminded me how important these landscapes are not only for recreation, but for the health of wildlife and the spirit of the people who visit them.
While visiting 6,850 foot high Tower Mountain, I had the chance to speak with fire-watcher Mike Duffy about the many uses of the forest and the importance of protecting it for all users — hikers, hunters, local communities, and the wildlife that depend on intact habitat. Standing atop the tower, I watched a male Northern Harrier glide across the ridgeline. It was a beautiful and unforgettable sight, made possible by the open, undeveloped character of these forests.
Experiences like that should be preserved for future generations, including my grandson. That is why I support the Roadless Rule and Alternative 1 – No Action in the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Roadless areas in the eastern Washington and Oregon forests are limited, and once road construction begins, the impacts on wildlife habitat, forest connectivity, and the quiet backcountry experience cannot be undone.
Maintaining the Roadless Rule is the responsible choice. It protects the ecological richness of places like the Umatilla and Wallowa‑Whitman, ensures that wildlife such as the Northern Harrier continue to thrive, and keeps these landscapes intact for the next generation to enjoy.