I would like to begin by saying that I truly appreciate the privilege of being able to submit my comment.
You have my gratitude for carefully reading and considering the viewpoint of each citizen.
I value unspoiled nature for numerous reasons, but I will discuss two here:
#1 - The many beautiful settings we have across our beautiful land give unmeasurable pleasure to millions of people.
I would hope that we would keep as much of it as possible unscarred by roads.
#2 - Healthy ecosystems protect our human health. Disrupting healthy ecosystems with road cuts affects the health of watersheds and destroys habitat.
Without the natural percolation of water, where there is unnatural runoff and erosion caused by roads, the purity of our water is compromised.
Furthermore, habitat destruction is the main cause of extinctions. When species go extinct, there is an inescapable ripple effect that affects not only our water, but our air, and the flora and fauna that keep our human environment healthy. If we disregard ecosystem health, we do it at our own peril.
I ask that we follow the wise, long term view of preservation whenever possible.
Again, thank you for your thoughtful consideration.
Paul Skutches
17625 Route 5 Road
Sonora, CA 95370