What is new is the total lack of ability of the people now running the forest to do anything about it. It is a shame to let the people's high value resources rot on the ground. On several occasions, Peterson has spoken to his colleagues on the Resources committee on the same issue. The Alleghney National Forest is the greatest source for high-quality cheery wood. Both Peterson and Anderson refute claims that revenue lost because of a decrease in timber harvest could be made up through tourism on the national parks.
Recreation is important to the economy of rural communities.
We do not think that this will occur due to the limits of reality and the economic law of diminishing returns. There is absolutely no replacement for the energy, vitality and the activity generated from the sustainable harvest of forest crops. Peterson thanked Anderson for his comments and his willingness to testify before the Subcommittee.