Peterson further explained that proposed urban initiatives were designed to aid the wealthy as most urban residents are above average income. Another matter which garnered a great deal of attention at today's hearing was that of the deteriorating condition of roads and trail within the purview of the Forest Service and a budget request that is not commensurate with those needs. He asked whether this request was wise when the USDA admits that it cannot maintain the programs it already has. We are depriving tax-paying citizens their right to safe access to public forest land. Additionally, he said that the number of recreational visitors to Forest Service land is increasing exponentially, but there are not emergency medical and fire services designated to meet this need.
Nothing is allotted for other emergency services.
To address this issue, Peterson cited other agencies that contract with local volunteer fire departments to provide emergency services free of charge. Wildlife Refuges provide a good model for a cooperative relationship between rural volunteer fire departments and an agency that has a need. Peterson vowed to help the Forest Service obtain highway funding for portions of roads that are utilized by local residents, schools, and the postal service so that funds could be freed up to improve conditions of recreational roads and trails. Forest Service land is used and enjoyed by millions of Americans. From hikers and fisherman to bird watchers and campers, the land should be safe and accessible.