Speakers from the Eastern Panhandle made this clear. It has much to do with how we define ourselves and our future. One fellow, just out of college, said the stress he had as a teenager was bearable because of his trips into The Forest. Many knew this to be true. One likened it to going to church.
Forest ecosystems are productive of critical life support systems.
The connection between roads and stream sediment was made many times. Others talked of recreation and the sustainable economics of it. One noted West Virginia is sitting on a great and unique attraction for millions, and we should in no way degrade it. Forest health is a concern of all. Foresters said cutting made for a vigorously regrowing, healthy, disease free and less fire-prone forest.