Forest Service held regional field meetings to discuss the proposed National Old-Growth Amendment

Less than three weeks into the 90-day public comment period on draft guidance for old growth management on national forests, U.S. Forest Service staff held an informational field meeting in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Mt. Adams Ranger District, Wind River Experimental Forest. During this field meeting, national, regional and forest level staff discussed the proposed amendment and shared information on how interested members of the public can submit their comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement.

A highlight for forest advocates came while sitting in an amazing stand of old-growth Hemlock, when local legend Jerry Franklin spoke up offering his comment which aligns with Environment Oregon’s view that our old-growth forests do the best job of managing themselves when they are left alone. Upon reflection, the event underscored that while some parts of the proposal sound good at first, a lot of it is unclear and could open loopholes to let the Forest Service make choices that might actually weaken current protections, which is why we are continuing to encourage folks to sign our petition.

The forest service will also be holding a public virtual webinar on July 31st, click here to register.