I am writing to ask the Federal Government to protect our National Forests by maintaining the Roadless Rule. I strongly oppose the USDA’s proposal to fully or partially rescind the Roadless Area Conservation Rule. I have had the opportunity to backpack, hike and enjoy many areas in Oregon and Washington protects by the Roadless Rule. Being in these areas provides me and many others with recreation, reflection and wellbeing. I live in Sisters, Oregon and spend summers hiking up Tumalo Mountain and exploring the Cascade Lakes. I hike in the Ochoco National Forest, as well. In northern Washington, I have spent several weeks exploring areas along the PCT such as Snowy Lakes and Rainy Pass. This weekend, I backpacked in the Sawtooth Range in Washington with hundreds of other hikers, exploring the larch forests changing color. The value that these experiences give me and thousands of Americans is why we love this country.
The Roadless Rule protects the watersheds in both Bend, Oregon where I work part of the year and the Methow Valley in Washington, where I also work. In addition to having the health, quality and quality of our water effected, both these communities depend on recreation based tourism for their economic stability. People visiting these areas generate revenue for many local businesses.
Beyond the economic folly, the environmental consequences are severe. Roadless forests represent some of the most intact, resilient ecosystems left in our country. They filter and store clean water, provide refuge for vulnerable species (both plant and animal), and serve as critical carbon sinks in the fight against climate change. We are seeing the effects of climate change from increased forest fires to low snow years. As a ski instructor, I am directly impacted economically by climate change.
For more than two decades, the Roadless Rule has been a cornerstone of forest management, balancing ecological and economics. It supports people’s wellbeing and connection to nature. It creates better mental and physical health for those of us who enjoy the land. Instead of rolling back protections, the agency should strengthen its commitment to protecting America’s roadless forests for clean water, climate resilience and recreation. All of which directly affect me, my community and livelihood.
Please maintain the Roadless Rule and keep our public lands protected. Thank you.