Additionally, these state agencies have a cooperative approach with the Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management in coordinating fire suppression and related activities. Management decisions on federal lands also impact adjacent private lands within Arizona as well. Ominously, in May 2000, the GAO's findings were tragically manifested by the Cerro Grande Fire Incident at Los Alamos, New Mexico. The Forest Service has agreed to the findings of the GAO report, yet, little has happened on the ground to address this crisis. Arizona communities such as Strawberry, Prescott, Flagstaff, and Greer are proximal to high loads of national forest vegetation and pose the same prescription for the disaster that struck Los Alamos.
Massive fires have negative impacts on wildlife habitat and fisheries.
Air and water quality also suffer because of smoke, soot and soil erosion. If federal laws are precluding our national forests from being managed appropriately, then we all need to address those laws and make the necessary revisions. Arizona's National Forests need management, they r equire professional care and stewardship. I believe that preserving untamed areas Arizona's forests are important. However, because of my duty and commitment to responsible stewardship of National forests lands in Arizona, I must be included in the front-end negotiations and development of the guidelines for the implementation of this roadless area plan.