The legislature has a responsibility to act. The urgency felt by Keeley and his constituents is a reaction to Sierra Pacific Industries' plan to clearcut more than 70 percent of its 1.5 million acres that reach from Yosemite to the Oregon border. Residents of the region are concerned that the plan will negatively affect wildlife, water quality, and recreation and tourism. In response to the proposal and pressure from both environmentalists and residents, representatives of the timber industry offered to limit clearcutting to near current levels, but their offer was refused. Instead, proponents of the bill have suggested they may try to stop the clearcutting on timberlands via a statewide ballot initiative.
Recent polls suggest the probability of that happening is high.
A statewide poll of 400 active voters conducted in late August showed support for the moratorium at nearly 2 to 1. Another poll of voters from nine Sierra counties showed 53 percent of those surveyed were in favor of the measure and 34 percent were opposed. Although it's too early to say what the outcome of the clearcutting talks will be, Nunamaker acknowledges that if a ban on clearcutting resurfaces on the statewide ballot and it is received favorably, it could have tremendous implications for forest owners and managers across the nation. For related stories, search our Archive. Source Current Issue Highlights page.