To whom it may concern,
I write today to express my profound disappointment with and opposition to the proposed legislation to rescind 36 CFR part 294, Subpart B of the Special Areas; Roadless Area Conservation rule (hereafter referred to as the Roadless Rule).
As a marine scientist and outdoor recreationist, I understand the immense value in protecting what few inaccessible areas remain on the planet that have not yet been touched by industry. These areas are essential for the conservation, protection, and recovery of countless organisms that provide Americans with priceless ecosystem services. The loss of biodiversity has become a major concern in recent decades, and legislation like the Roadless Rule is one of too few safeguards we have against ecological collapse.
Just last weekend, I had the pleasure of hiking within Okanogan–Wenatchee National Forest, Washington. I was happy to share this experience with hundreds of other hikers who journeyed far to enjoy the annual turn of the larches and salmon run. However, my party and I were also met with facilities and garbage disposal sites near capacity as well as litter on the trail. Meanwhile, a hike last year on the north side of Mt. Rainier N.P. yielded 15 rough and occasionally treacherous miles of FR73 that made for a challenging drive in and out.
Rather than a sign of mismanagement on the part of our Forestry Service, these experiences speak to a lack of support from the Federal Government to enable proper maintenance. Overall, my sincere recommendation is that this agency be better equipped to do the amazing work it already does at a much higher capacity. Investing in our natural resources, rather than attempting to sell them off, will yield far greater economic, recreational, and ecological returns in the future.
I request that this Administration please end its proposal to rescind the Roadless Rule for the benefit of all Americans present and future.
With gratitude,
Reid Thomson