The role of government relating to Vermont's forest land. This tended to include the broader property rights issues regarding government's role in the management of private forest land, and defining such public values as water quality and wildlife habitat associated with private land. The variety of uses on public land, both relating to future land acquisition and the management strategy of current state ownership. As demands on public land increase and the values people place on public land change, the issue of conflicting uses becomes more common. Public expectations in natural resource planning and decision-making.
People attend meetings to be heard and have their thoughts represented in the plan.
The department had the task of incorporating input where appropriate, but many in attendance felt that their issues were either not being addressed or not given proper priority. The department recognized the frustration from some of those attending the public meetings regarding a perceived increase in the role government plays in the lives of every citizen. This has economic, ecological, and social impacts on the forest resource and the people who own, manage, and enjoy it. The department has sought to involve the public, through the regional meetings, in a knowledgeable discussion of the issues and opportunities facing Vermont's forests in the years ahead. We have made many improvements to the plan based upon public comments.