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| Forest health is a local issue |
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2005/10/12
.S. Democrat Mark Udall is proposing a bill to give public land managers more tools in the pine beetle battle.
Udall should be commended for listening to those who are dealing with the potential of forest fires destroying their homes, towns and quality of life.
Udall has an uphill climb to convert his proposal into action.
If the current administration's track record is an indicator, conservation-minded legislation will be difficult, if not impossible, to pass. President Bush's administration already has cut from the U.S. Forest Service budget and other conservation agencies. More problematic, Bush is vowing to cut services rather than raise taxes to pay for the reconstruction of New Orleans. Getting more money from the Feds to improve the health of the forest is a long shot.
Without federal funds, Colorado will be forced to find its own solution. Logging could help thin the forests, but strict management will be required. Undergrowth and limbs are the fuel for most fires, not the trunks, which are the target of most commercial operations. Plus, erosion control measures should be in place for years after any logging operation ends.
Relying on the timber industry is a long shot as well. There is a shortage of commercial timber operations. Further logging is seen by some as not commercially viable, which is why large operators are not lining up for the work.
Rita J. Neznek, associate director of forest policy for the National Association of Foresters, said that because of federal and state limitations, most successful forest restoration projects around the country are beginning and ending on a local level with little, if any, outside assistance.
Neznek said that most successful beetle-mitigation projects, including ones done in Montana after the 2000 Bitterroot Fire, have combined local and state volunteer organizations and small logging operations.
What that means is the real solution to keep homes safe from fire danger and beetle-kill trees, is a focused, directed attack from local organizations. To make a true impact, the county needs the full support from everyone: homeowners, businesses, chambers, school groups, tourist groups and volunteers.
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