The Union Democrat, June 17, 2002

Letter to the Editor

Forest shelter

Why did God create the forests? I believe he had a very practical reason, mainly to provide food and shelter for all His creatures to co-exist.

If someone destroys the habitat of wild animals, their whole ecosystem is destroyed. When the berries and other edible plants are taken away from them, they either must look elsewhere for their food supply or starve to death.

Another reason why it is necessary that the forest stays as natural as possible is to avoid soil erosion of the bare land after clearcutting has taken place. The roots of the large trees, especially on hillsides, hold the soil after severe storms, thus preventing landslides.

Just because the logging industries own the land is not a good reason to destroy it. Those of us who own homes in the forest must obey the strict rules of the area, e.g., not cutting a tree that has a diameter of 10 inches or more without permission. I believe that loggers should return to the rule of selective cutting. If we abide by the rules of the Department of Forestry, why shouldn't they?

The view of our forest, so far, resembles a mangy and diseased dog with patches of bare skin showing here and there. Will there be decent scenery for the future generations to enjoy? This is a natural heritage that can't be replaced overnight.

Let's refrain from further destruction of this God-given area.

Imogene Whipple
Murphys