Critics of logging in national forests say fees paid by commercial operators fail even to cover the costs to the federal government. Controversies over logging roads rack national forest policy. The construction costs are borne initially by the logging companies, but the expense is deducted from the general fees the loggers must pay for access to harvestable trees. The roads are inadequately maintained in cases where they have later use for recreational purposes, and their deterioration fouls streams and contributes to soil erosion. Yet the Forest Service budget for maintenance would be cut in the current House and Senate versions.
National forests are an enormous asset belonging to the entire nation.
Their maintenance and their protection from over-exploitation are matters of national interest. The House and Senate will betray a national trust if they promote loggers' interests while neglecting the broader benefits of preservation. Recipients should seek permission to reprint the article from the source listed above. Reading on line, downloading or other use of this information signifies acceptance of these conditions, and the Full Disclaimer.