The Daily Herald again ruined my day with its recent coverage (“To speak for trees, Snohomish County activists arm themselves with data,” The Herald, July 26).
I cannot imagine why the paper wasted so much ink and column space making front page news about a few anti-logging zealots wandering around on state forest lands. They were reportedly “collecting data” on plant species composition in areas of planned Department of Natural Resources timber sales. In an amazing display of hubris the League of Women Voters, the Center for Responsible Forestry, the Legacy Forest Defense Coalition and even high schoolers with their Climate Action Club feel qualified to “advise” the Snohomish County Council and the DNR on issues of professional timberland management. Apparently giving a tree a hug with a tape measure is all it takes to acquire the necessary credentials.
Their stated intent is to stop sustainable timber harvests on DNR lands in Snohomish County under the guise of affecting climate change. The issue of carbon sequestration in forests and lumber has been the topic of numerous Herald articles, with the clear scientific consensus supporting the harvest and use of forest products. Kudos to County Councilmember Sam Low for stating his clear understanding of the issue.
Unless those folks involved in this effort live in mud huts or igloos they are hypocrites, likely living in wood-framed houses and sitting on wood furniture. The U.S. Forest Service stopped its sustainable timber sale program 30 years ago, and as a result our national forests have never been in worse condition. We surely should not choose the same for state managed lands.
Ron Baker
Arlington
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
