As someone who grew up near the Shenandoah Valley and the George Washington National Forest in Virginia, I strongly oppose rescinding the Roadless Rule. I care deeply about our wildlife, and my biggest concern is that my future kids won't be able to enjoy the lush, green forests I grew up around if they're opened up to commercial logging. We can't allow the permanent destruction of our ecosystems for short-term gain.
First, we really have to consider what we're leaving behind. Right now, 95% of Pennsylvania’s only national forest is already open to logging, mining, and oil drilling. This will make the area more unsafe for animals and humans alike. I’ve always loved the birds and wildlife in these woods. Honestly, I’m constantly looking online to figure out the exact species I just spotted—especially the Broad-winged Hawks and Red-shouldered Hawks that are so iconic to Virginia. If these habitats are destroyed, the incredible wildlife I've spent my life watching will simply disappear. My trips to the Virginia mountains are some of my best memories. I recently got married, and my wife and I have lots of plans to go hiking. I also absolutely love biking, and I want to make sure I can walk these same natural, untouched forests with my future kids one day.
It's so important that we protect the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests (GWJNF) from logging and road construction.
Beyond that, intact forests provide massive environmental benefits. When natural events like wildfires do happen, a healthy, roadless forest canopy acts as the ultimate defense mechanism for our downstream water infrastructure.
Finally, decisions about these lands should really be in the hands of local leaders and knowledgeable park rangers, rather than a sweeping federal mandate. One blanket policy just can't accommodate the massive diversity of our American lands. For example, Pennsylvania needs to preserve the old-growth in its white pine stands, while California requires targeted management for extreme wildfire risks. We need to empower area-specific management to make sure the land gets the exact care it needs.
Because of all this, I fully support Alternative 1, the "No Action" alternative. Please say no to rescinding the Roadless Rule and keep these areas protected.