The Green Mountain Lookout continues to still be mired in controversy thanks to the very helpful Wilderness Watch group headquartered in Montana. Their position concerning the use of a motorized device (helicopter) to reconstruct the Green Mountain Lookout seems be a classic case of lack of common sense. As with anything, it seems there will always be a group of individuals who take things to the extreme in their quest to uphold the law.
I have nothing against protecting our natural resources and establishing areas that will remain pristine so future generations can enjoy them. However, what started out as an attempt to preserve a historical landmark has now turned into a battle of “this is what the law says” versus common sense. So, from what I can gather the use of motorized devices is strictly forbidden in this wilderness area. That being said, if and when there is a forest fire, or perhaps an injured hiker, the old-school method of horses or just plain footwork will have to be used. No modern fire-fighting equipment or helicopter rescue it seems. Even if there is exception to the rule regarding motorized devices which are used for emergency purposes, I suppose it is only a matter of time before that comes under scrutiny. By the way, weren’t lookouts such as “Green Mountain” constructed to protect our natural resources?
Phil Labuguen
Monroe
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
