GUEST VIEWPOINT: Forest management overhaul should include protections

Eugene Mayor Kitty Piercy argues for protecting values provided by our forests.

In Oregon, healthy forests mean healthy communities, and Eugene is blessed with both. We all value our surrounding forests for the clean drinking water, abundant wildlife and recreational opportunities they provide. We appreciate the Willamette National Forest and other public lands that surround our part of this state.

Right now, the Obama administration is rewriting National Forest Management Act rules for first time since the Reagan administration, and it is critical the rules include strong, clear protections for the things Oregonians value.

National Forest Management Act rules may sound obscure, but they’re far from it. They affect our lives whenever we turn on the tap, grab a Ninkasi or an Oakshire, or lace up our hiking boots. These rules likely will determine management policies from the Willamette and Deschutes national forests to the White Mountains in New Hampshire for a generation or more. They will stand among the most lasting and consequential conservation legacies of the Obama administration. Our community has much at stake.

As our economy continues to adapt, transition and diversify, our community stands to benefit from conservation-based forestry. We must replace conflict with collaboration and focus on restoring landscapes.

The best example in the country is in our own backyard. The coastal Siuslaw National Forest manages to exceed timber production goals and, by focusing on a restoration model, hasn’t faced a timber sale appeal in over a decade. Without strong national forest rules, such genuine collaboration will remain the exception rather than the rule.

Our wild landscapes and forests are what make our home so special. A sense of wonder, awe and fulfillment is felt uniquely in an unbroken landscape. These are also the places that help clean our air, allow us to recreate and nurture healthier bodies and reduce obesity. These are the places that attract visitors and grow our economic future.

Our forests also provide a key ingredient to life itself. Our source of clean drinking water is inextricably linked to the health of our forests. These are the places that hold much of the future of Oregon.

As stewards, we must pay attention to obscure-sounding forest rules. They must be based on science and provide sensible guidelines and clarity for forest supervisors. They need to reflect the voices of the members of our community.

The administration’s proposed changes show promise, but they fall short. That is why earlier this year I joined community, faith, conservation, recreation, business and science leaders from around the state and country in a letter to the Obama administration calling for stronger rules.

The administration said it is listening. Let’s hope so.

The future of our forests can be one of abundant wildlife, clean water, a healthy economy and opportunities to connect with the land. It can be one that reduces conflict and controversy over diminishing resources, one that is better able to help us meet the challenges we face.

If we are to win the future, we cannot lose this opportunity.

Kitty Piercy is mayor of Eugene.

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Click here to learn more about the new forest rules.