To whom it may concern:
I routinely hunt, fish, hike, camp, climb, and ski in National forests across America. I have spent significant amounts of time in the Bighorn National forest, Tongess National forest, and many others across the West and AK. National forest inventoried roadless areas are important to me because it provides a uniquely American experience of wild landscapes and adventure that is not found in many developed parts of the world.
I support retaining durable conservation measures while providing carefully defined flexibility for forest restoration, community safeguarding, and fish and wildlife habitat improvement projects. The Forest Service does not need to choose between healthy forests and conserving the intact backcountry landscapes on which hunters, anglers, wildlife, and communities depend.
Rather than removing the national rule, which would create inconsistent management across the country and potential conflict, I recommend that the Forest Service finalize a durable national Roadless Rule that safeguards intact backcountry habitat while providing flexibility for necessary community safeguards and restoration.
Please maintain a national Roadless Rule and draw from the full range of alternatives to develop a durable framework that retains management for inventoried roadless areas, while providing targeted flexibility for necessary fire management.
Thank you sincerely for your review of all the public comments Americans are sharing on this topic.
I have relied on these areas as a veteran, patriot, and outdoor enthusiast. Please support the pubic and the roadless rule.