However, Jim's approach is generally reasonable and he seems to be in favor of overall forest management. Loesel has an influential voice and the fact there could be agreement toward overall timber management is very encouraging, Porter said. The participants need to be complimented. This is a very complex and emotional subject and the positive spirit shown here goes a long way to reconciling differences, Olson noted. When discussions are held regarding the national forest, Olson said, many people feel as if they are losing something, whether it's wilderness, roadless sections or mountain bikers.
Many people have emotional values and views when they think of public lands.
But the forests also are a commodity and are at the heart of forestry and timber management, Olson noted. Alan Boynton of the state department of Game and Inland Fisheries noted that the local economy and hunters require some type of timber management. The forest service should take an active role in the timber management program, he said. Over the last 10 years, it appears they are working toward a total cessation of logging. I believe my department and many others don't agree with that direction.